National Public Gardens Week

Tuesday-Saturday, May 14-18, Public hours

All are invited to explore diverse plant collections while touring indoor and outdoor destinations at the Botanical Conservatory. As part of Fort Wayne’s downtown revitalization efforts since 1983, our mission is to “provide a unique botanical venue for quality public education and enjoyment.” Visit during National Public Gardens Week to learn, celebrate and discover all there is to see and do at your local public garden! Also take advantage of a special giveaway while supplies last. Regular admission fees apply.

Spring Bonsai Show

Saturday, May 18, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Embrace peace and harmony while immersed in a bonsai display presented by the Fort Wayne Bonsai Club. Members are present and pleased to discuss this art form. For those who would like to cultivate tranquility at home, a selection of beginning bonsai specimen and pots are available for cashonly purchase. Show entry included with general admission.

Dani Kiefer: Public Reception:

May 19, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Dani Kiefer is a teacher, graphic designer, illustrator and fine artist. She received a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and photography from the University of Saint Francis in 1999. Upon graduation, she moved to Chicago and began designing exhibits and marketing materials for the Field Museum of Natural History. She continued her career in Chicago at the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Lincoln Park Zoo where her brand design for the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo was awarded first place by the American Association of Museums. She currently teaches part-time at Concordia Lutheran High School, leads art workshops in her home studio and designs communication materials and illustrations for a variety of clients. “I’m drawn to wildflowers. They thrive in the most unlikely of circumstances. They are strong, resilient, patient, trusting, wild and free.”

Iris Flower Show Sunday

May 26 12:00-3:00 p.m.

Revel in the beauty of showy spring blooms. Members of the Northeast Indiana Iris Society display a sublime array of prized blooms in various varieties. Be sure to vote for your favorite! Members are also happy to offer helpful growing advice. Show entry included with general admission.

Spring Plant Swap

Swap quality established plants with fellow plant enthusiasts and bring home the same amount of plants, if not more! Vegetables, annuals and houseplants are preferable this spring. Please label ahead of time and bring a carrier for transporting. Swaps are FREE, though space is limited. Registered participants are given priority. Registration deadline: May 30. Min. 10. Max. 45.

    Code                Date       Day             Time

327701-S1             6/1         Sa           10-11 am

# Sessions/Fee: 1/Free

Location: Bot. Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St.

Breakfast with Butterflies

Reserve your spot for an unforgettable experience at the Botanical Conservatory! As a VIP guest, this special occasion includes a personalized visit with exotic butterflies, a youth-oriented craft and breakfast, too. Enjoy French toast sticks, bacon, hash browns, fruit and a beverage of your choice. You will also receive a souvenir and Painted Lady Butterfly Kit to continue the transformative fun at home. All attendees must register including adults and children under age 2. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Please reserve highchair or booster seat during registration. Registration deadlines: May 24 and May 31. Min. 20. Max. 48.

    Code            Date       Day            Time

327200-U1        6/2         Su       10 am-12 pm

327200-U2        6/9         Su       10 am-12 pm

# Sessions/Fee: 1/$30

Ages 2 years and under, FREE

Location: Bot. Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun