December 13, 2021
Contact: Rob Hines
P: 260-427-6028
C: 260-241-1932
Public Information Officer
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Fort Wayne, Ind. – The following events and programs are happening the week of December 13:
Santa & Reindeer Saturdays
December 18, 12:00-4:00 p.m.
Santa and his reindeer will be at the Botanical Conservatory on each of the three Saturdays before Christmas. Visit holiday-dressed reindeer who love petting and posing for pictures. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the “Alpine Holiday” exhibit and other jolly scenery on your way to see Santa himself! (NOTE: Santa takes a break from 2-2:30 p.m.) Regular admission fees apply.
Winter Solstice Walk/Ride & Bonfire
Tuesday, December 21, 4:30 p.m.
Salomon Farm Park, 817 W. Dupont Rd.
On the shortest day, let’s light the night! Bring a flashlight or battery-operated lantern and join us on bike or on foot to celebrate the winter solstice. We encourage bikers to light up their bikes for fun, but all bikes are required to have a front white light and a red rear reflector or red rear light. We also encourage riders to be safe and wear a helmet. The 6.5-mile bike ride will begin at 4:45 and the 1.65 mile walk at 5:00. We’ll gather back at the farm afterwards for a bonfire. This free community event is possible sponsored by Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation, City of Fort Wayne Greenways & Trails and Fort Wayne Trails. Follow Salomon farm on Facebook for updates and weather-related cancellations.
Days of Holly Shopping
Saturdays through December 18, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 South Calhoun Street
This year Shop Small Saturday will take place on not just one Saturday, but every Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Experience the holiday excitement throughout Downtown Fort Wayne, the West Main Shops, and the Wells Street Corridor. Locally owned & operated shops will be ready to host visitors this Small Business Saturday, including our Conservatory Shop! Conservatory admission not required to shop during this experience in partnership with the Downtown Improvement District.
“Alpine Holiday” Showcase Exhibit
Through January 2, Public hours
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 South Calhoun Street
Imagine the sting of snow on your cheek, the brilliance of dusted slopes and the fragrance of mountain pines. The Botanical Conservatory’s version of the Alps offers a bold glacial display that will have visitors basking in the cool blues of winter offsetting the rich deep colors of holiday poinsettias. Wind down a mountain path and admire the scenery from the porch of a snow-capped ski hut. Sponsored by English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, PBS Fort Wayne and Majic 95.1 WAJI.
Late-Night Light Display
Thursdays & Fridays through December 17, 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 South Calhoun Street
Amp up those holiday plans with a visit to the Botanical Conservatory where the gardens are all dressed up for the season! Dazzle at the display of stunning poinsettias, illuminated photo ops and charming scenes that bring a twinkle to the eye. Unique gifts are available for purchase in the Conservatory Shop. All this and more serves as ideal guest entertainment when the gardens in light are best seen at night, November 26 through December 17 during extended holiday hours from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday evenings. Included with regular Conservatory admission.
Holiday Window Displays at Promenade Park
Through January 3
Get a small glimpse of daily winter life at Promenade Park through our handmade paper cut light boxes. Paper cut light boxes are believed to have originated from China after paper was first invented. Many countries picked up the skill, but Switzerland remains the enduring leader referring to the art form as Scherenschnitt. The light boxes will be displayed in the windows of the Park Foundation Pavilion at Promenade Park from November 24 to January 3 and can be best viewed at dusk.
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