Cheekwood Reopens Following Storm Damage, Hosts Tree Restoration Lecture

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens has reopened to the public after a six-week closure due to damage sustained during a winter ice storm, coinciding with the start of its spring festival, “Red, White & Blooms.” The reopening celebrates the bloom of approximately 250,000 tulips and marks a significant step in the estate’s recovery.

Storm Damage and Recovery Efforts

The winter ice storm, known as Winter Storm Fern, caused widespread damage to over 3,000 trees across the 55-acre estate, a certified arboretum with more than 130 tree species (Hawk Central). While the estate’s buildings remained unharmed, the gardens experienced significant impact. Cheekwood staff are committed to utilizing all parts of the damaged trees, whether through replanting, using mulch in gardens, or incorporating materials into exhibits (NewsChannel 5).

“Red, White & Blooms” Spring Festival

The reopening of Cheekwood coincides with the launch of “Red, White & Blooms,” a spring festival honoring America’s 250th birthday. The festival features a display of 250,000 red and white tulips, violas, hyacinths, and daffodils (Wilson County Source). Guests can enjoy live jazz performances by Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music on select weekends, food trucks, and picnic opportunities (Wilson County Source). The festival runs from March 7 through April 12, 2026 (Wilson County Source).

Community Lecture: Tree Restoration and Planting

On Tennessee Tree Day, Cheekwood will host a community lecture focused on tree restoration and planting for the future. Lukas Suzano and Eric Berner, ISA Certified Arborists from Davey Tree, will join Cheekwood’s CEO and Director of Education to discuss assessing storm-damaged trees, identifying potential issues as spring arrives, and selecting trees for long-term resilience. The lecture is included with daily admission and is free for Cheekwood members, but seating is limited.

Cheekwood’s Resilience and Future Outlook

Despite the challenges posed by Winter Storm Fern, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is demonstrating its resilience and commitment to the community. The reopening and the “Red, White & Blooms” festival offer a vibrant celebration of spring and a renewed opportunity to experience the beauty and history of this Nashville landmark. Cheekwood President and CEO Jane MacLeod emphasized the importance of the gardens as a place for community gathering and celebration (Wilson County Source).