History of the Sheffield Garden Walk

The Sheffield Garden Walk is one of Chicago’s longest-running summer festivals. And it is why Sheffield Neighbors became known as “The Garden District of Chicago.” 2026 marks the 55th edition of our historic Garden Walk.

But Sheffield Neighbors was not always this way. By the time SNA was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1959, much of what would one day become the first National Historic district in the State of Illinois had fallen into disrepair. Over the next ten years, with the help of SNA members, the neighborhood began a renewal and transition.

When a small group of neighbors organized the first Garden Walk in the summer of 1969 with only 16 gardens, their goal was to draw attention to the beauty of our revitalized community. Two years later, the Garden Walk was moved from the unpredictable weather weekends of June to the warmer days of July, increased to two days and expanded to include garage sales. Gradually the Garden Walk became a true festival, adding entertainment, restaurant booths, beverages and children's activities.

As the Garden Walk grew in popularity to feature sometimes as many as 130 gardens, it transformed from a way to gain exposure for the neighborhood to became a source of revenue raised completely by volunteer effort. Over the years, these funds have helped SNA support neighborhood schools, parks, community organizations and the efforts of various association committees.

In 2018, the Garden Walk celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Unfortunately, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions, the event was suspended the following year and remained on hiatus until 2023. That summer, SNA brought back the Sheffield Garden Walk in a new format, centered on music, a family fest, guided architecture tours and, of course, the beautiful gardens.

Sheffield Neighbors has come a long way from that first Garden Walk. With the support of residents, business owners, community organizations, neighborhood visitors and friends, we look forward to seeing how this beloved event will evolve for future generations in the heart of Lincoln Park.