Shop for a variety of plants, antiques, garden art and more, while enjoying food and music from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 5, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 6, at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St.
“We’re expecting a great year,” says Klehm Executive Director Alexander Mills. “People are ready to return to outdoor events in a safe way. The pandemic really helped people to understand the value of being outdoors, and we want them to continue to visit, explore and experience nature safely, year-round.”
The Garden Fair is Klehm’s biggest fundraiser, and is now in its 28th year. Attendees will notice some new features and vendors.
Klehm’s Fountain Garden will turn into a weekend-long Learning and Education Garden, where nonprofit organizations with a focus on gardening, nature, conservation and the environment will offer demonstrations, talks and information. Musicians, including Trinadora and Emerald Wind, will perform between presentations.
The food court is adjacent to the fountain area and will include Cantina Taco, Pizza Fresca, Prairie Street Brewing Company and many others.
Mills says the Learning and Education Garden fits nicely with Klehm’s mission “to be a living museum for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all people.”
“We wanted to add more educational opportunities for people interested in nature, the outdoors and conservation because people attending the Garden Fair have interests in these areas,” he says.
Visitors will notice a new 64-square-foot limestone sign with bold lettering and Klehm’s logo at the arboretum’s South Main Street entrance.
To enhance safety at the event, tickets will be sold in advance as well as at the door. Face coverings are required except when eating and drinking.
Tickets are $5 in advance, $8 at the door and admission is free for members and children up to 12.
Advanced tickets can be purchased at Didier Greenhouse, both Gensler Gardens locations, The Landscape Connection, Meridian Nursery, Pepper Creek Flowers and Plants, at both Village Green locations and at the Klehm Gift Shop. ❚