PARIS — Memorial Day weekend in the Oxford Hills means lilac time at the McLaughlin Garden. The historic garden begun by Bernard McLaughlin in 1936 includes about 125 early, middle and late season blooming lilacs. Although lilacs began to bloom early this year due to the warm spring, recent cool weather has extended the bloom. Late bloomers should continue the display for several weeks.

The garden is normally open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Lilac Festival with additional programming and tours will take place from May 25-28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visitors to experience the sights and scents of lilacs.

Scheduled are talks on lilac care at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and guided tours of the garden at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. A photographic exhibit of native plants and pollinators borrowed from the New England Wildflower Society will be on display. A sale of perennials including McLaughlin originals and the gift shop will be open. Donations will be accepted to help maintain the historic property.

Other upcoming events include a bus trip to Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Massachusetts and Fuller Gardens in New Hampshire on June 16. A container planting workshop will take place on June 7 at 5:30 p.m. at Winslow Farm in Falmouth with carpooling from the garden. Further information on both activities may be obtained from the McLaughlin Garden at 743-8820.