What’s Happening at the Botanical Conservatory in January
Fort Wayne, Ind. –The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory at 1100 South Calhoun Street presents the following events and programs this month.
Featuring:
Botanical Speedway
January 13-April 7, 2024
Racers ready—rev your engines in the Botanical Conservatory’s latest winter exhibit. Kids will pedal along and burn some rubber on a tropical racetrack as part of this exciting family outing that will have you strolling down victory lane. Imagine accelerating toward the finish line on this fast, not furious, superspeedway. Helmets are available. On Your Marks, Get Set, GROW! Sponsored by English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation, Howard P. Arnold Foundation, Magee-O’Conner Foundation, WANE 15 and 103.9 Wayne FM.
Timeless Tradition
Until January 7, 2024, public hours
Holidays at the Botanical Conservatory have delighted the community as a family favorite over the last 40 years. Its gardens in light and scenes of merriment contribute to a warm holiday spirit in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne. Fresh cut evergreens, a lush poinsettia tree and deep ruby undertones are the backdrop to this year’s memories. Join us in celebrating an oasis of growth and tradition. Sponsored by the English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation, Waterfield Foundation, Wilson Foundation, M.E. Raker Foundation, Air Xray, PBS Fort Wayne and Majic 95.1.
Winterval at the Conservatory
Saturday, January 27, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Live Ice Carving at 10:00 a.m.
Celebrate the coolest season with the Fort Wayne Parks Department and its Winterval partners! Festivities at the Botanical Conservatory include a live ice sculpture carving outdoors and on display near the main entrance. Regular admission fees apply to indoor activities including a speedy-fun craft, plant giveaway and exploration of the “Botanical Speedway” winter exhibit. You are also welcome to come inside and enjoy the warmth of Conjure Coffee and the Conservatory Shop. Winterval is sponsored by 21Alive and 97.3 WMEE.
Sweetheart Orchid Display
January 30-March 3, Public hours
Be allured by the colorful mystique of Orchids on display in the Botanical Conservatory’s Tropical House. Experience captivating, long-lasting blooms in an intimately devoted space that mirrors the everlasting love shared with those closest to you. Orchids and other remarkable plants are available for purchase in the Conservatory Shop. Included with general admission.
Also Happening:
Julia Meek: Fort Wayne Traditions
Until January 5, public hours
Fort Wayne native Julia is a radio host, graphic artist and legendary community volunteer who has contributed to Northeast Indiana Public Radio both on- and off-air for forty years. Besides being WBOI's arts & culture reporter, she currently co-produces and hosts “Folktales” and “Meet the Music.” She also hosts live concerts and festival stages in northeast Indiana and coordinates special programs with Gregg Coyle, Director of Clyde Theatre. Known for her accessible arts and cultural offerings, Julia's list of achievements includes Easter Seals ARC's 26-year Portraits of Pride series and two decades of Cityscapes and Schooldays renderings, countless private commissions, multiple Mastodons on Parade, Canal Society of Indiana co-founder, Three Rivers Festival Millennial Artist and Fort Wayne's 1st Female Muralist designation as well as various works of public art including a recent mural in the Landing neighborhood.
Kelly Bremer: The Octane Collection
January 13-April 7
Public Reception: February 11, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Speed, adrenaline, vibrant colors, intense sound and edge-of-your-seat thrills! This. Is. Racing! Nationally recognized artist Kelly Bremer presents “The Octane Collection.” Featuring thrilling acrylic paintings and renderings depicting iconic race and road cars spanning the past 100 years of the automobile. Dynamic perspectives pull you into the action while the subject’s realism and abstracted backgrounds hold you tight through every twist and turn. Get buckled up for a stunning visual trip through automotive and racing history.
