2026 TRADE SECRETS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

Since the founding of Trade Secrets 26 years ago, volunteers have been the key to its success in raising significant operating funds for Project SAGE. THANK YOU! Your support has helped so many in need, given hope to those who had lost it, and saved countless lives. We thank you for donating your time and energy to furthering the work of Project SAGE.

General Event Information

Trade Secrets Event Weekend Dates and Locations

Saturday, May 16, 2026 - Garden Tours, throughout CT and NY

Sunday, May 17, 2026 - Trade Secrets Rare Plants & Garden Antiques Sunday Sale, Lime Rock Park - 60 White Hollow Road, Lakeville, CT 06039

Volunteer Benefits & Securing Garden Tour Tickets

Volunteering comes with meaningful impact and some wonderful perks.

ALL TRADE SECRETS VOLUNTEERS RECEIVE THE BELOW BENEFITS:

  • Free admission to the Trade Secrets Sale Event on Sunday, May 17, 2026 (General Admission entry time).

  • One ticket to two available Garden Tours on Saturday, May 16, 2026 (You can reserve your garden tickets through the Purchase Tickets page starting April 1, 2026).

STUDENT VOLUNTEERS RECEIVE THE BELOW BENEFITS:

We’re proud to support student growth and future goals. Student volunteers also receive:

  • A detailed volunteer job description for resumes and college applications

  • A personalized letter of recommendation from Project SAGE (upon request after service completion)

  • Free admission to the Sale Event for yourself and one parent or guardian

It’s a meaningful way to give back while building valuable experience.

SECURING YOUR GARDEN TOUR TICKETS:

Each volunteer may attend two available Garden Tours.

Please note:

  • Some gardens have limited capacity

  • Tickets are first-come, first-served

  • Guests who are not volunteers must purchase their own tickets

Reservation Instructions

Garden tickets become available at midnight on April 1 on our Purchase Tickets page. To reserve your tours:

  1. Select your preferred gardens

  2. Enter the promotional code included in your volunteer confirmation email

Garden Descriptions

Arriving at Trade Secrets Sunday Sale on May 17, 2026:

  • Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your shift starting

  • Volunteer parking is available in the overflow/vendor lot (map below)

  • Please check in at the Volunteer Tent where you will meet with Virginia Gold, our Volunteer Training Captain

What do I need to know about my volunteer day?

Come prepared for a beautiful (and possibly unpredictable!) outdoor event.

  • Comfortable clothing and a raincoat (just in case)

  • Shoes that can get wet

  • A reusable water bottle

For additional information, please contact Nichole Reyes, Trade Secrets Coordinator at TradeSecrets@Project-SAGE.org or 860-364-1080.