Updated: July 8, 2026
Lilyfest returns July 10–12, 2026, for a weekend of art, live music, and gardens at the Bishop Educational Gardens in the Hocking Hills.
This annual event runs Friday through Sunday, with art, music, gardens, and activities for all ages.
Art and Crafts Showcase
With over 60 artists and craftspersons presenting their work, Lilyfest is a hub for art enthusiasts. Attendees can browse and purchase a wide variety of items, including garden art, pottery, jewelry, glasswork, sculptures, and leather goods.
Gardens and Natural Beauty
The festival spans three acres of carefully designed gardens, ponds, and garden sculptures. OSU Master Gardeners and Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalists will be available to provide insights and answer gardening questions, making this a valuable experience for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Live Music
Live music will be a continuous feature throughout the festival. Visitors can check the MUSIC page on Lilyfest’s website for the full lineup and schedule, ensuring they don’t miss their favorite performances.
Food and Refreshments
Chef Moe’s On-the-Go will return with a selection of sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Pap’s Ice Cream will also be present, offering ice cream and, new this year, locally roasted coffee. These food options are expected to be a highlight for festival-goers looking to enjoy a meal or snack during their visit. Bring cash and checks. Some vendors take cards, but cell service out here is spotty, so don’t count on tapping to pay.
Educational Programs and Activities
Lilyfest offers more than just visual and auditory delights. Educational programs, including guided nature hikes and activities like Cookies and Canvas for Kids, provide interactive learning experiences. These programs cater to a wide range of interests and ages, making the festival an educational outing as well. Kids gravitate to the Forrest Friends exhibit and the Viking Village, where you can try your hand at hatchet throwing.
Admission and Accessibility
There is no admission fee for Lilyfest, although donations are appreciated. Parking is available in two fields, and carpooling is recommended to reduce traffic congestion. The festival paths are mostly grass or dirt with smaller gravel, making them accessible for wheelchairs. Handicapped parking is also available near the entrances.
Bishop Educational Gardens
The Bishop Educational Gardens, the heart of Lilyfest, grew out of the work of Bobbi and Bruce Bishop. After a storm in the late 1980s, the Bishops transformed their damaged property into a series of flower and water gardens. In 2008, they donated the land to the Hocking Soil and Water Conservation District for educational purposes. The gardens now host workshops, nature hikes, and tours for individuals with disabilities, among other activities.
A Festival with Deep Roots
Lilyfest began in 1992 when the Bishops and a group of artist friends decided to share their gardens with the public. Initially attracting about a hundred visitors, the festival has since grown significantly, now featuring over 60 artists and attracting thousands of visitors annually. The event highlights Ohio artists, particularly those from the Hocking Hills area.
Lilyfest 2026 runs Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Leave pets at home. Only service animals are allowed, in accordance with ADA guidelines.
For more information, including directions and parking details, visit the Lilyfest website or follow along on Instagram.
Where: Bishop Educational Gardens, 13200 Little Cola Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149
Phone: 740-969-2873
Directions: Map it It’s a scenic drive through the hills to get there.
