Summer has arrived in the Village, and with it comes a slightly different rhythm.
The mornings feel softer, the gardens are lush and full, the afternoons invite a slower pace, and by evening there is that familiar golden light that makes the brick pathways, pastures, and porches feel especially beautiful. It is the season for shaded walks, cold drinks, lighter meals, linen dresses, sandals, and finding a quiet place to sit for just a few minutes longer.
There is also so much to look forward to at Fearrington over the next few weeks.
At The Fearrington House Restaurant, Chef Gagné’s summer menu will debut in the next two weeks, and I am always excited to see how the kitchen shifts with the season. Summer brings such wonderful ingredients — tomatoes, corn, herbs, berries, peppers, and all the bright, colorful flavors we crave when the weather warms. Chef has such a beautiful way of taking what feels familiar and making it elegant, layered, and unexpected. It is one of my favorite menu changes of the year.
The Belted Goat is also the perfect place to settle into summer. Whether it is coffee and a pastry in the morning, lunch on the patio, or something easy from the grab-and-go case, it has become one of those spots where the Village really comes alive. Residents, guests, staff, and visitors all seem to pass through, and there is something I love about that daily hum.
At Galloway’s, summer means chilled whites, rosés, sparkling wines, and easy bottles to enjoy on the porch, by the pool, or with friends. Troy and our Sommeliers always find something wonderful for the season, and there is no better time of year to discover a new favorite wine.
And of course, no summer day in the Village feels complete without a visit to McIntyre’s Books. There is something wonderful about wandering the shelves and finding the perfect summer read — something to take to the pool, pack for vacation, enjoy on the porch, or keep close by for a quiet afternoon. Whether you are looking for a new novel, a mystery, a beautiful cookbook, a children’s book, or a thoughtful gift, McIntyre’s always seems to have just the right recommendation.
The shops are full of summer as well. Dovecote has beautiful dresses, sandals, linens, jewelry, and pieces that feel effortless in the heat. Thistle & Oak is ready with swimwear, lightweight shirts, hats, and all the details that make summer dressing feel polished but relaxed. Nest is filled with entertaining pieces, tableware, candles, and gifts that make home feel a little brighter. And Haven is always a wonderful stop for skincare, sun-ready essentials, and small luxuries that make the season feel special.
Of course, summer is also a perfect time for a staycation. The Inn feels especially peaceful this time of year, and I love the idea of checking in, enjoying breakfast, spending time by the pool, booking a spa treatment, wandering the gardens, browsing the shops, picking up a book at McIntyre’s, and ending the day with dinner or a glass of wine. Sometimes the best getaway is the one that does not require a plane ticket.
And while the heat can certainly be a challenge — especially for our gardeners, grounds team, event staff, and everyone who works outdoors — there is still something magical about summer here. The flowers keep blooming, the animals find their shady spots, the evenings stretch a little longer, and the Village settles into its own warm-weather rhythm.
So as we move into these next few weeks, I hope you will find a reason to come spend some time with us.
Walk the gardens early in the day, stop for lunch, browse the shops, choose a summer read, try something new from the summer menu when it arrives, or simply sit for a moment and enjoy the season.
Summer in the Village is here, and we are so glad to share it with you.
