2026 CDS Events

A Year of Daylilies, Learning, and Friendship

The Chicagoland Daylily Society enjoyed another wonderful year of programs, garden visits, and opportunities to share our love of daylilies.

We kicked off the season in March with Mary Beth Giacalone exploring the fascinating history of Chicago's daylily hybridizers and their ground-breaking contributions to the daylily world.

April brought a special double feature with two accomplished hybridizers. Mike Grossman presented "Everything is Coming Up Toothy," exploring the distinctive toothy edges that have become such an exciting feature in modern daylily breeding. Kathleen Nordstrom followed with "Seeking the Unique," sharing her passion for unusual and distinctive daylilies and the creativity involved in developing new varieties.

In May, renowned hybridizer Curt Hanson presented "Self Imposed Paradise," offering a fascinating look into his world of daylily hybridizing. His program gave members an opportunity to learn from one of the leading figures in modern daylily development and appreciate the artistry and dedication behind creating exceptional cultivars.

Summer took us outdoors with our popular Progressive Garden Walk in July, giving members and their guests an opportunity to visit private gardens, exchange ideas, and enjoy the beauty of daylilies in bloom.

August brought one of our biggest events of the year — the Annual CDS Daylily Sale! With nearly 200 unique cultivars available, the sale offered something for everyone, from gardeners discovering daylilies for the first time to experienced collectors searching for something special. This popular event is our Society's primary annual fundraiser, helping support the educational programs, speakers, and activities that make CDS such an active gardening community.

In September, CDS members shared their own garden transformations, demonstrating the creativity and inspiration found within our Society. We wrapped up the year in October with our annual photo contest, election of officers, and Oktoberfest potluck.

Throughout the year, our programs brought together experienced growers, beginning gardeners, and everyone in between. Great gardens, great people, and a shared love of daylilies — that's what CDS is all about!