May is a busy time in Hendricks Park: birds, plants, flowers, picnics, prom photos, tours, and Mothers Day. Mothers Day is probably the busiest day of the year, with families coming back to keep long traditions alive, young children on their first visit smelling rhododendrons and finding surprises hidden in the park, and Friends Board members helping people find parking and telling visitors about the park and what is blooming. Families chatting and children laughing filled the air with sound, while chickadees, nuthatches, song sparrows, grossbeaks and others provided musical accompaniment.
Many rhododendrons are still or just beginning to bloom, so if you haven’t been to the park yet this spring, there is still time to enjoy the show.
Upcoming Tours
There are a couple of tours coming soon: Sunday, May 24th has Park Gardener Emily Aune leading folks through the Rhododendron Garden and Sunday, May 31st has Karen Rainsong sharing insights into the ways of the native Kalapuya People. Both tours begin at 1:00 pm at the Wilkins Shelter. Sign up here: https://friendsofhendrickspark.org/tours/ .
Volunteers
The Tuesday morning crew in the Rhododendron Garden and the Thursday afternoon group in the Native Plant Garden worked hard to prepare the gardens for Mothers Day. They are still at it, so stop by to help with the work, meet new and old friends, or just offer encouragement to the groups.
Your Support
Your generosity allows us to continue supporting our volunteers, City of Eugene park staff, and outside contractors in enhancing Hendricks Park. We welcome new memberships and donations at any time.
Volunteers Preparing for Mothers Day, 5 May, 2026
