Colonial Park Gardens Open for Weddings

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — With so many weddings canceled and delayed with the pandemic, here is some good news for couples planning to get married. Somerset County's Colonial Park Gardens are now issuing permits for commitment ceremonies with up to 50 people.

The Arboretum, a 5 1/2-acre area comprised of more than 900 tree and shrub specimens, is one of the locations designated for weddings. The other is the Perennial Garden, a colorful field of flowers, first established in 1976 as a lilac collection. Surrounded by roses, lilies, peonies, and a host of other flowers is the gazebo, which can be reserved.

The Somerset County Park Commission’s Horticulture Department is also issuing permits for professional photoshoots for events such as quinceañeras, graduations, and proms, in every garden within Colonial Park – including but not limited to Leonard J. Buck Garden and the Rudolf W. van der Good Rose Garden.

The 50 people limit for weddings includes officiants and the wedding party. All other Covid precaution guidelines in effect at the time must also be followed.

Reservations have to be made at least two weeks in advance of the vent or photoshoot. To reserve the gardens at Colonial Park, call 908-722-1200 ext. 5721. To reserve the Leonard J. Buck Garden, call 908-722-1200 ext. 5621.