October 21, 2015
For Immediate Release
Contact: Natalie Eggeman (260-427-6028)
Public Information Officer
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Egyptian Pleasure Garden
Through November 15
By the time of Ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom period, the nation’s wealth allowed for pleasure gardens at the homes of the richest citizens. A pond with colorful fish and lotus flowers, shade trees, palms, and flower beds provided a cool retreat. Fruit trees and grape vines added to the banquet table, while papyrus clustered at the water’s edge. Visitors to our summer-to-fall garden can relax in the shade and admire a distant view of the pyramids. Sponsored by the Wilson Foundation.
$1 Night
November 5, 5 - 8 pm
On the first Thursday night of the month we discount our admission to just $1 for each adult and child. Babies and up through age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours at a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.
Gingerbread Spa Workshop
Saturday, November 14, 9 – 11:30 am
Bring on the holiday season with this Gingerbread Spa Workshop! All of the projects in this class will use the comforting aroma of toasty gingerbread-fresh out of the oven! The first project will be a gingerbread-scented glycerin soap shaped in the classic gingerbread man shape. Next up is the spicy solid lotion bar containing skin-loving butters and oils that will keep dry skin at bay during the cold, winter months. Finally, gingerbread-scented nail polish full of sparkles to decorate your nails for all of your upcoming holiday parties! All projects will be gift-giving ready and complete with holiday gift packaging! Ages 10+. Registration deadline: November 6. Min. 10. Max. 20. Fee: $25/public; $19/Conservatory member or volunteer. Location: Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
Bottle & Bottega North Woods Painting Workshop
Saturday, November 21, 1 – 4 pm
Be our guest on the first day of the “North Woods Holiday” exhibit at the Botanical Conservatory by joining Bottle & Bottega to paint a winter-themed scene to get you in the right mood just before the holidays! Artists from Bottle & Bottega will teach you to how to create a beautiful painting with step-by-step instruction. No experience is required! All painting supplies including aprons will be provided along with your 16” x 20” canvas. The price includes a complimentary truffle from DeBrand as a thank you for attending the event. Ages 18+ (17 & under must be accompanied by an adult). Registration deadline: November 13. Min. 10. Max. 36. Fee: $39/public; $33/Conservatory member or volunteer. Location: Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
“A North Woods Christmas”Garden Exhibit
November 21-January 3, 2015
Imagine 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 and pine trees for this exhibit. Sponsored by the Wilson Foundation, WAJI Majic 95.1, Wells Fargo, and PBS 39
Holiday Kick-Off Party
Wednesday, November 25, 5 - 9 pm
Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.
Enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie, meet Mrs. Claus, and get a free professional-quality photo with Santa. You can also meet two live reindeer that know all about the North Pole. The gardens are decorated for the holidays, and you won’t want to miss the animated light show outdoors. Be sure to participate in the Fort Wayne Downtown Lighting Ceremony either before or after your visit to our beautiful holiday garden and displays. Regular Conservatory admission fees apply: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17. Children 2 and under are admitted free. No reservations required. Sponsored by PBS 39 and WAJI Majic 95.1. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.
Garden in Lights
November 25 - January 3
We’ve decorated not only the Showcase House, where you’ll find the customary poinsettias and elegance, 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.
Extended Holiday Hours
November 26 - December 18
The Conservatory will be open until 8 pm on Thursday and Friday evenings from Thanksgiving through the week before Christmas. Enjoy an evening downtown at the botanical gardens, done up for the holidays. The gift shop and sales garden are also open until 8 pm.
