Annual Pond Tour

The Annual Pond Tour takes place at various residences across Houston, May 6-7. 

Inspiration abounds at a dozen private water gardens and koi ponds open to the public on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday May 7. Showcased are everything from serene garden pools, to patio-sized "disappearing" fountains, to huge multi-pond landscapes, complete with tumbling waterfalls, lush landscaping, dancing dragonflies, blooming water lilies, graceful goldfish, show quality koi, and everything imaginable in between. Photographs are encouraged.

All private residential landscapes, many of these ponds and water gardens were professionally installed, while others were designed and built by the homeowners themselves. The pond owners will be on hand to talk with visitors about water gardening, landscaping, pond construction, water quality and filtration, fish health, koi competitions and more.

Sponsored by the Houston Pond Society and the Lone Star Koi Club, this self-guided tour spans two days and is spread over the greater Houston area, with half the ponds open only on Saturday and half open only on Sunday. Hours are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. A $10 ticket is good for both days, and can be purchased in advance at Nelson Water Gardens in Katy or at any of the tour homes on the day of the tour. Go to www.houstonpondsociety.org or www.lonestarkoi.com to find the home nearest to you, and plan your route. Tickets include a brochure with a brief description of each pond, a map, and detailed driving directions to each home.