Greenville, SC, is just a few hours’ drive from Atlanta and perfect for a weekend getaway. Especially when the getaway involves gathering with fellow gardening enthusiasts to listen and learn from gardening greats at a first class symposium.
This was my second year attending the Annual Garden Symposium created and run with expert efficiency by the Greater Greenville Master Gardeners Association. The speakers at this 23rd annual event included author Jenny Rose Carey, Dan Benarcik of Chanticleer, pollinator conservationist Heather Holm and author Peter Hatch of Monticello. The speakers were across the board, fantastic, and by the end of the day, I’d made a gardening to-do list along with my notes on the talks.
GGMGA’s Garden Symposium
Dining out in Greenville
Dinner out was a challenge because it was Valentine’s Day and many of the best restaurants were booked. My dining companions did their research, though, and found a winner: The Jones Oyster Co. (22 E Court St, Greenville ). The oysters looked fantastic and I’ll definitely try them on the next visit. This night, I opted for a comforting bowl of crab rice topped with an over-easy egg.
My Favorite Bookstore
Every new town I visit I try to find independent bookstores and Greenville has one of the best — M. Judson Booksellers (130 S Main St, Greenville). The recommendations are outstanding and its always reassuring to be in the accompany of people who appreciate books.
Books at the Event
Gardeners love books. There were more at the event. This excellent selection of gardening and nature titles was curated by Fiction Addiction, another independent bookseller in Greenville. (1175 Woods Crossing Rd #2, Greenville, in Shops by the Mall)
Greenville Gardening Symposium 2026
If you’re interested in attending the Greenville Gardening Symposium in 2026, sign up for email notices with the Greater Greenville Master Gardeners Association. The last few years, there’s been a waiting list. Best advice is to purchase tickets the day that you receive the email. Hope to see you there!
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