First Thursday of the month

Botanical Conservatory

March 1, April 5, May 3

5:00-8:00 pm

The Conservatory is open on the first Thursday night of the month for a discounted admission of just $1 per person. During each $1 Night you can also drop in to our program room for a fun and educational lecture or activity. No reservations required. We validate parking tickets from the Civic Center Parking Garage for free parking. For more information, call (260) 427-6440. 

DNI: All About Seeds

Thursday, March 1, 6:00-7:00 pm

Seeds are all different and unique, designed to grow into the likeness of their parents. They come in various colors, shapes and sizes. Join us to take a closer look at a variety of seeds and examine what is on the inside. We will have fun exploring seeds and their properties, making a fun craft using seeds, and even eat a healthy seed snack that evening.

DNI: Spring Bloomers

Thursday, April 5, 6:00-7:00 pm

The year’s early signs of life can be seen in April as spring flowers pop out of the ground. What are some of those most commonly seen flowers springing up everywhere? Are they annuals or perennials? Do they have a fragrance or no smell at all? Come to the conservatory to learn about these beautiful spring flowers. Bring your questions and enjoy a craft and snack while taking in the lovely springtime Showcase exhibit garden.

DNI: Hissing Cockroaches

Thursday, May 3, 6:00-7:00 pm

What is a Hissing Cockroach? Is it dangerous? Not at all! You won’t find these as a kitchen pest. Visit the Conservatory to meet these gentle bugs face to face. Find out where they come from, what they eat, how they live, and why they hiss. You can make a cockroach craft and enjoy a fun “buggy” treat, too! We’ll have live specimens of these sociable insects on display in our Bugs! exhibit, so you can get a good look at them.