THE LILAC ZONE
Every year, the International Lilac Society (ILS) holds a convention located in an area of the country or world where there is a large lilac collection. To date, I have been unable to attend any of these conventions due to various reasons, but this year, I am happy to report that the convention will be held near my own turf, in Boston, Massachusetts!
From what I hear, these conventions are quite enjoyable as they provide the opportunity to meet other people with the same affinity for lilacs and learn a thing or two about them, with one of the highlights being able to participate on a tour of the lilac collection in the area. In this case, the tour will be held at the always impressive Arnold Arboretum! There is also the opportunity to obtain some of the more rare lilacs in existence, as there is always a lilac auction that takes place. The lilacs auctioned off are donated by ILS members, reducing the risk of obtaining a lilac that when finally blooming reveals itself to not be what the original label said it was. Not only am I excited to attend this year because of being able to participate in the auction, but I plan to donate to the auction as well!
2017 International Lilac Society Annual Convention in Boston, MA!!!
May 11-13th!
'Lilac Sunday', a beautiful cultivar propogated by Jack Alexander, the former curator of the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plains
The convention is going to be held from May 11-13, 2017, which is the perfect time to see the lilacs in bloom. If you are interested in attending, there is a Registration fee that covers Thursday lectures & Hospitality room, tours on Friday and Saturday, Friday's lunch, transportation and a banquet. (I am just going off of information sent to me, so don't hold me to the details.) The fee is $210 if you register before April 15th and $250 if you register after. If you would like more information or would like to register, email Karen McCauley, the Convention Coordinator @ mccauleytk@aol.com.