Helpful Tips
Garden Tours
All tickets are digital and will be emailed to you after your reservation. You may present them on your phone or print a copy to bring with you.
Rain or Shine - This event happens rain or shine—come prepared for the weather with comfortable shoes and appropriate gear.
Expect Crowds - Some gardens are quite popular! Please be patient, kind, and follow the flow of foot traffic.
Plan for Limited Cell Service - Some garden locations have little to no reception—plan your route in advance and consider printing or downloading directions.
Pack In, Pack Out - We ask that you carry out anything you bring in. Trash cans are not available on-site.
Restrooms - Portable or on-site restrooms will be available at all gardens.
Respect the Property - These are private homes and sacred spaces—please stay on marked paths, do not pick plants, and respect all posted signage.
Waitlist Tickets - Waitlist tickets are not tickets for entry. If a spot opens up, you'll be notified and given the option to purchase a ticket.
Please plan to finish your visit by the end time—many gardens are at private homes, and we want to respect the generosity of our hosts.
No Pets – While we love all furry friends, we unfortunately do not allow pets during the garden tours.
Rare Plants & Garden Antiques Sale
All tickets are digital and will be emailed to you after your reservation. You may present them on your phone or print a copy to bring with you.
No Early Entry – Guests will not be admitted before their ticket time, but you are welcome to access the event anytime after your ticket’s entry time.
Rain or Shine - This event happens rain or shine—come prepared for the weather with comfortable shoes and appropriate gear.
Bring Cash & Cards – Some vendors accept only cash or only credit cards, some accept cash, credit cards and checks. There is no ATM on site.
Vendors & Offerings – Rare plants, garden antiques, décor, books, and more! View the full vendor list here.
Book Signings – Meet celebrated authors and get your books signed! Schedule to be announced.
Please note: Book signings are only accessible during the entry window for your ticket type. Be sure your ticket time aligns with the signing you'd like to attend.
Food & Refreshments – Food and coffee will be available for purchase. Check out the menu in our Program Map. *2026 map coming soon!
Purchased Items - You do not need to carry your purchased items around! Leave the item with the vendor, then meet us at the Pick-up/Drop-off area when you are ready to leave.
Please note: Give us 30 - 45 minutes after your purchase to bring your items to the designated area.
It will be crowded – plan for time, patience, and comfortable walking shoes!
Children are Welcome - Children under 12 receive free admission to the sale event. We ask that all children be accompanied by an adult or guardian.
No Pets – While we love all furry friends, we unfortunately do not allow pets at Trade Secrets.
Bought Something Big? We Can Ship It.
CARTER offers shipping anywhere!
If you purchase an item you would like shipped:
Get an info card from the seller.
Text CARTER (860) 671-8903 a photo of your item(s) for reference.
Give the seller your full contact info (Name, Phone Number, and Bidder ID).
Keep shopping! We’ll follow up with all buyers after the show to coordinate delivery.
Shipping Fees
Small Items: $50 each
Two-person Items: $100 each
Tractor-required Items: In-person quote required
Distance Fee: $2.00 per mile (up to 100 miles) from Lime Rock Park
Over 100 miles? Contact CARTER for a custom quote:
Text: 860-671-8903 or visit the Shipping & Pick-Up Area during the show.
Please Note:
No deliveries will be made the day of the show unless pre-arranged by CARTER.
Tractor-only items will require an on-site quote day of the show.
If you require in-home placement, arrangements can be made after the event.