News release from the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory:
What’s Happening at the Botanical Conservatory in December
“A North Woods Christmas”Garden Exhibit
Through January 3, 2015Imagine the charm of a North Woods cabin during the holidays: nestled into a snow-drifted evergreen and birch forest, the homestead is preparing for Christmas. Indoors, the rustic table is set for our couple, who may be off checking traps, drawing water, or gathering twigs, moss, cones and grapevine for decoration. The outhouse, sawbucks, and lantern indicate how far off the beaten path you find yourself. Woodland animals make brief appearances throughout the scene. While the rural feel of the setting suggests more wolf and bear than human population, the celebration is heartfelt and cozy in the midst of the big woods. Take family photos or just stroll through the poinsettia-accented Showcase garden as you enjoy our holiday exhibit. Thanks go to the many Fort Wayne citizens who donated spruce, pine and birch trees. Sponsored by the Wilson Foundation, WAJI Majic 95.1, Wells Fargo Charitable Trust, and PBS 39.
$1 Night: Holiday Music in the Garden
December 3, 5 – 8 pmOn the first Thursday night of the month we discount our admission to just $1 for each adult and child. Join us on December 3 for a very special $1 Night. The band “Long Journey” will perform holiday songs and melodies in a traditional style that evening, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The performance will feature hammered dulcimer, banjo, guitar, penny whistle and vocals. The gardens are also decorated for the holidays. It’s $1 admission at the Conservatory starting at 5 pm so come early and find your spot in the garden to enjoy the performance. No reservations required. Children age 2 and under are admitted free.
Santa & the Reindeer
Saturdays before Christmas, Noon – 4 pm
December 5, 12, 19Santa and two of his reindeer will greet the children while Mom and Dad get an opportunity to take pictures to capture the moment. Explore the Conservatory in its holiday glory; this year’s theme is “A North Woods Christmas.” Regular admission fees apply: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17. Conservatory members or volunteers and children ages 2 and under are free. Sponsored by PBS 39 and WAJI Majic 95.1. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.
Extended Holiday Hours
Through December 18The Botanical Conservatory will be open until 8 pm on Thursday and Friday evenings through the week before Christmas. Enjoy an evening downtown at the botanical gardens, done up for the holidays. The gift shop is also open until 8 pm. The Conservatory will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Garden in Lights
Through January 3We’ve decorated not only the Showcase House, where you’ll find the customary poinsettias and evergreens, but the Tropical and Desert Houses and the outdoor gardens as well. Especially effective during our evening hours on Thursday and Friday nights between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the gardens are lovely throughout the holidays and provide a tremendous backdrop for family photos, out-of-town guest entertainment, great conversations, and even marriage proposals! Make the most of your visit as you enjoy one of Fort Wayne’s treasured resources for beauty and relaxation. Our gift shop will also be open during public hours for holiday shopping.
Pleasing Evergreen Centerpiece
Thursday, December 10, 6 – 7:30 pm OR
Saturday, December 12, 9 – 10:30 amIn the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle, invite a family member or friend here to the Gardens to create a festive evergreen centerpiece that can be enjoyed by all through the holidays. Dennis Bowman, designer with Gassafy Wholesale Florist, will help you fashion the fragrant branch tips of balsam fir, cedar and pine into an arrangement with holiday flair. The centerpiece incorporates a candle, ribbon and pine cones for a nice seasonal touch. Your fee includes the items listed above as well as a stroll through the holiday gardens. Bring garden gloves, pruners and any accents you’d like to incorporate. Ages 16+. Registration deadline: November 25. Min. 12. Max. 36. Fee: $34/public; $29/Conservatory member or volunteer. Location: Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
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