Garden to host larger-than-life glass artwork by Seattle-based artist Jason Gamrath
BELMONT, N.C. – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is thrilled to celebrate its 20th anniversary with the announcement of an awe-inspiring, larger-than-life botanical glass exhibit, Grandiflora: Gamrath Glass at the Garden, opening Fri., May 24. Guests will be mesmerized this summer by dozens of vibrant sculptures by Seattle-based artist Jason Gamrath including towering 10-foot orchids, vivid pitcher plants, energetic Venus flytraps and more.
The immensity of Gramrath’s botanical works captivates audiences and calls attention to the beauty of normally tiny details within the natural world. A Seattle area native, Gramrath began studying glass sculpting at the young age of 15 and has worked and trained with many renowned artists including Preston Singletary, Karen Willenbrink, Richard Royal, Ross Richmond and Sally Prasch. His work is collected internationally and the pieces on display at the Garden will also be available for purchase.
“The purpose of creating this series on a macro scale is to bring to light the beauty that exists within the micro scale of nature,” said Gamrath. “It is my hope that when people admire my large-scale renderings, they become curious and captivated by the hints of realism I incorporate into my designs. I encourage people to attempt to observe with the same eyes through which I humbly and graciously experience our natural world.”
The Garden, which opened the doors of its Visitor Pavilion in 1999, celebrates 20 years of horticultural beauty just 30 minutes from uptown Charlotte in Belmont, NC. This summer the gardens will feature big, bold, beautiful plants with large flowers and leaves to complement Gamrath’s sculptures. In addition guests can explore the Butterfly Bungalow during the day and enjoy a beverage and live music in the Beer Garden on select evenings.
The Garden is grateful for the following supporters who helped make Grandiflora: Gamrath Glass at the Garden possible: May and Carroll Barger, Mr. and Mrs. James J. Bissell, Anne and Tom Efird, Gaston Community Foundation, Pamela K. Warlick and Pat and Bill Williamson.
Guests can experience this unique exhibit daily May 24 through Sept. 29 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and also in the evenings Thursdays through Sundays May 30 through Sept. 29 from 6 to 10 p.m. with the exception of the evening of June 16 when the Garden will be closed for a private event. Admission to the Garden and exhibit is $14.95 per adult, $12.95 per senior ages 60 and up, $7.95 per child ages 2 through 12, free for children under age 2, and free for Garden Members from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. while Members receive a 30% discount on admission for evenings from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door for daytime admission and both online and at the door for evening admission. For more information, call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org.
An annual tradition continues with even more lights and fun for the family
BELMONT, N.C. – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s annual Holidays at the Garden, opening to the public on Nov. 23, is going to be bigger and better than ever before. Visitors will experience an all-new musically-orchestrated topiary display, wander through the new illuminated Piedmont Prairie Garden, explore the extended lights of fire and ice plus all new lanterns in the perennial gardens, and much more.
Visitors will enjoy annual traditions including the 15-foot towering orchid tree, live music (daily 6 to 8 p.m.), holiday shopping in The Garden Store, crackling fires to warm cold hands or roast a marshmallow, the Children’s Discovery Trail of activities, warm beverages and more. Food service will be available every night in addition to beverages including coffee, hot chocolate, cider, beer, wine and other spirits.
Model train displays built by the Metrolina Model Railroaders can be found throughout the Garden in addition to an expanded display of quaint buildings from Department 56’s Dickens’ Village Series®. Santa Claus will also be available Tuesday through Thursday from Nov. 27 to Dec. 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for personal photos (no fee). Mrs. Claus will visit the Garden Friday through Sunday evenings from Nov. 23 to Dec. 23 in addition to Christmas Eve from 6 to 8 p.m.
“Holidays at the Garden has been an annual tradition for 14 years and has delighted families with lights and holiday features,” said Patrick Larkin, the Garden’s Executive Director. “This year visitors will be amazed by the addition of hundreds and thousands of twinkling lights through new garden spaces. Musically orchestrated 12-foot topiaries will greet guests as they walk into the Garden, 8-foot lanterns will cast designs throughout Ribbon Garden, and thousands of lights will sweep through the new Piedmont Prairie Garden offering a unique and spectacular holiday experience for all.”
A special thank you to sponsors including David Belk Cannon Foundation, Gaston Travel & Tourism, Duke Energy, South State Bank, Pepsteel, Charlotte Regional Partnership and Beasley Broadcasting Group’s K104.7.
Holidays at the Garden will be open Nov. 23, 2018 through Jan. 6, 2019 from 5 to 9 p.m. each evening, although the Garden will be closed Christmas Day. Holidays at the Garden admission is discounted for tickets purchased online in advance and prices increase at the door. Admission purchased online in advance for Monday through Thursday is $12.95 per adult, $11.95 per senior 60+, $7.95 per child 2-12 and free for children under age two. Admission purchased online in advance for Friday through Sunday is $14.95 per adult, $13.95 per senior 60+, $8.95 per child 2-12 and free for children under age two. Garden members receive a 30% discount and also receive 30% off the purchase of up to four guest passes. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance at www.DSBG.org.
Additional Holiday Events at the Garden
Visitors can also enjoy special events throughout the holiday season.
Capture the Magic with Santa on select Mondays, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17
Packages start at $49, visits available between 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Capture a magical memory with professional photos of your children or family with Santa by Rick Haithcox Photography! Please note, personal photography will not be permitted during this time. Holidays at the Garden admission is also required. Advance reservations are required and can be made online at www.DSBG.org.
Tea Tasting on Sunday, Dec. 2; Seatings at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.
$30/Guest
Celebrate the holiday season with a variety of teas paired with scrumptious snacks while learning more about each type of tea. Advance reservations are required and can be made online at www.DSBG.org.
First Tuesday: Behind the Scenes of Holidays on Tuesday, Dec. 4; 12 – 1 p.m.
Free for Members or with General Admission
Join the Garden’s team for a behind-the-scenes look at Holidays at the Garden. Guests will learn more about exciting updates to the 2018 display, how the display comes together and get some ideas for their own holiday décor for the holiday season. No need to register – just bring a lunch and enjoy!
Wine Pairing on Sunday, Dec. 9; 3 – 5 p.m.
$65/guest (admission to Holidays at the Garden included)
Join special guest Chef Chad Hutcheson of the String Bean in Belmont, six-time winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, for this afternoon of scrumptious small bites and delectable wine samples. Advance reservations are required and can be made online at www.DSBG.org.
Sparkle & Glow New Year’s Eve on Monday, Dec. 31; 5 – 9 p.m.
Free with admission tickets to Holidays at the Garden
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a family-friendly event featuring New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world, live music, Holidays at the Garden and more. Holidays at the Garden tickets are available at www.DSBG.org.
Hair of the Dog Hike on Tuesday, Jan. 1; 11 a.m.
Free with general daytime admission or free for Members
Kick off the New Year with a refreshing guided Garden hike on New Year’s Day! Bloody Marys and Mimosas will be available for purchase.
Holiday Classes at the Garden
Visitors can also register for classes throughout the holiday season at www.DSBG.org.
Scandinavian Stars Workshop on Saturday, Nov. 17; 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
$30 (materials included), Instructor: Halle Russell
Craft two beautiful, old-fashioned woven Scandinavian paper stars that can become part of your family holiday tradition.
Mason Jar Holiday Crafts Workshop on Saturday, Nov. 17; 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
$35 (materials included), Instructor: Chef Alisha Hester
Decorate and fill three mason jars with delicious ingredients to create holiday treats to keep for yourself or give as gifts.
Restoration & Meditation on Sundays, Nov. 18, Dec. 2 & 16; 12:30 – 2 p.m.
$18/Class, Instructor: Raha Yoga
No experience or physical exertion required! Use props to help hold poses while using breathing, song and mindfulness to help you relax. Feel rested, refreshed and prepared for all the stress that comes along with holiday season. Bring your mat.
Cubicard Workshop on Sunday, Nov. 18; 9:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
$48 (materials included), Instructor: Lore Spivey
These special greetings mail flat in a standard envelope, but fold out to be a memorable three-dimensional holiday sentiment or decoration for tabletop or tree.
Photographing Holiday Lights on Wednesday, Nov. 28; 5 – 7:30 p.m.
$60 (includes admission to Holidays at the Garden), Instructor: David Kelly, DEK Photography
Learn how to utilize the settings on your camera to capture beautiful photos of the Garden’s holiday display!
Holiday Wreath Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 1; 1 – 3:30 p.m.
$60 (materials included), Instructor: Halle Russell
Create a stunning custom wreath from natural materials to liven up your front door or gift to a loved one. If you have clippers, wire cutters, gloves and any personal embellishments bring them along.
Sugar Cookie Decorating on Saturday, Dec. 1; 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
$25 (materials included), Instructor: Chef Alisha Hester
Learn to edge, flood, and sprinkle your way to beautiful, professional sugar cookies and take home some samples to enjoy.
Lightroom Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 8: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
$135/Guest, Instructor: David Kelly, DEK Photography
Join Dave Kelly, one of eight Adobe Certified Instructors (ACI) for Lightroom in the U.S., to learn more about Lightroom, a post-processing program for images that allows for powerful editing and digital photo organization.
Sip & Paint
Sunday, Dec. 9; 1 – 3 p.m. with Halle Russell and Saturday, Dec. 15; 1 – 3 p.m. with Marti Hutchins
$30 (materials included)
Enjoy a painting lesson with friends while sipping a glass of wine in the Garden’s festive holiday atmosphere.
Flowerpot Snow People on Saturday, Dec. 15; 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
$30 (materials included), Instructor: Halle Russell
Create three cute snow people from clay flower pots to give as gifts or spruce up your holiday décor.
Digital SLR: The Basics on Saturday, Jan. 12; 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
$46/Guest, Instructor: David Kelly, DEK Photography
Planning to give or receive a new camera this season? Give the gift of knowledge! Send your loved ones to the Garden to learn the basics of photography.
Family-friendly summer events at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
BELMONT, N.C. – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Wild About Summer series kicks off with Bee Wild on Saturday and Sunday, July 21 and 22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wild About Summer celebrates nature and encourages families to venture outside and engage in fun, educational and hands-on activities.
Each event features activities unique to the theme in addition to crafts for both children up to age 10 and children over 10. Sproutycakes Bakery will have breakfast and lunch items for sale including cinnamon rolls, muffins, quiches, wraps, and more. Guests can also pre-order picnic lunches from Sproutycakes by calling 704-458-1393 at least 2 days prior to the visit. Beverages are available from the Garden and Sproutycakes. Visitors can join the Garden weekends July 21 through August 19 for Wild About Summer events which are free with regular Garden admission or free for Garden members. Each
Wild About Summer: Bee Wild!
July 21 – 22, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn more about the busy lives of bees and pollination, talk with local beekeepers, and discover just how important these hard-workers are to us and the world.
Wild About Summer: Wild About Color!
July 28 – 29, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Celebrate the color and artistry of plants, gardening, nature and the environment. What better place than in a garden? Color and color theory will all be explained.
Wild About Summer: Wild Wings!
August 4 – 5; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
This popular annual event is back at the Garden once again! Join expert Susan Campbell on Saturday, Aug. 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as she captures, bands and releases hummingbirds for research. Learn about attracting these tiny ornithological jewels and how to keep them coming back. Both days with feature activities allowing kids to measure their wingspan, examine feathers under a microscope and much more.
Wild About Summer: Wildlife!
August 11 – 12, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Join our experienced staff to get out ‘in the field’ where you will deepen your connection to nature by getting up close with wildlife. Contribute to a survey collection database and the Garden’s phenology walk. Learn how to be a citizen science observer!
Wild About Summer: Wild Wonders!
August 18 – 19, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The wild is full of surprises around every corner! Learn about the unique, bizarre and interesting adaptations plants develop in order to survive in different habitats.
Garden Members are admitted free and general admission is $12.95 per adult, $11.95 per senior 60+, and $6.95 per child 2-12. The Garden is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays through August for Sip & Stroll. For more information call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.dsbg.org.
Enjoy the Beer Garden, Pollinator Putting, Butterfly Bungalow, family activities & more
BELMONT, N.C. – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is thrilled to celebrate fathers all weekend on June 16 and 17. The Garden will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day with special activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. During this Father’s Day Weekend event, all fathers receive free garden admission.
Family activities offered include activities for the kids from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., a round a mini golf on the Garden’s original 18-hole Pollinator Putting course and more. An artist from The Twisted Turtle will create balloon animals on Sunday, June 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests will enjoy live music in the Beer Garden by The Boat Rockers on Saturday, June 16 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. and Daniel Jeffers on Sunday, June 17 from 12 to 2 p.m.! The Beer Garden will also be serving cold brews and guests can relax in the shade or enjoy yard games. Lunch will be available from a food truck each day and snacks are always available in the Garden Store.
Admission to the Butterfly Bungalow, a pollinators’ paradise abundant in fluttering butterflies native to North Carolina and a colorful display of their favorite plants, is available for a small additional fee. Guests can also join a member of the Garden’s horticulture team for a free (included with admission) Horticulture Highlight Walk on Saturday, June 16 at 1 p.m. to learn more about what’s in bloom, seasonally relevant gardening tips and more.
Families are also encouraged to register in advance at www.DSBG.org for the Family Fun Worm Bin Workshop on Saturday, June 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Each family will set up a worm bin to take home and learn about the importance of decomposers and vermicomposting. The workshop is recommended for ages five and older and is $30 for one child and one parent and $5 per additional participant (Garden members receive a 15% discount). General admission is not included, although free for members.
Garden admission applies to Father’s Day Weekend. Fathers and Garden members are admitted free, $12.95 per adult, $11.95 per senior 60+, $6.95 per child 2-12 and children under two are free. The Garden is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, but please note that admission sales and entry end at 4 p.m. each day. For more information call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org.
Sip & Stroll begins Thursday May 31 from 5 to 9 p.m.
BELMONT, N.C. – Sip & Stroll, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s annual celebration of summer evenings in the Carolinas, begins May 31 with a schedule that includes a great lineup of live music, free food, local craft beers, balloon rides and the Garden’s first-ever celebration of the end of dog days of summer.
Guests can enjoy the Garden in the beautiful evening hours during Sip & Stroll every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. throughout the summer months. The beer Garden will be open and each night will feature the best in area music.
The warm light of the setting sun will illuminate thousands of buds and blooms of a Pollinators’ Paradise, the Gardens’ seasonal theme that features Pollinator Putting, a miniature golf course of artfully themed miniature golf holes. Guests can unwind with a stroll through the Garden and sip local brews, wine or other refreshing beverages available for purchase. Most nights will feature an area brewery and cuisine from food trucks. At other times guests can grab a snack, wrap or salad from The Garden Store. Picnics are also permitted.
Here’s a look at what’s already scheduled:
May 31—Mike Strauss Trio could be country, but it’s not quite country. It could be blues, but it’s not quite blues. Not quite rock, folk or jazz either. Somehow Mike manages to live both inside and outside the Americana umbrella that these styles inform. The first 100 people admitted this night will enjoy free hot dogs from Paul’s Hot Dogs.
June 7—Demperio-Hertz is a duo whose vocal harmonies emerge from classics in Americana, folk and classic rock. You can also enjoy a selection from Belmont’s own York Chester Brewery and a local food truck.
June 14—Spend an evening with Gaston County’s favorite troubadour, David Childers on the heels of the release of his newest album “Run Skeleton, Run.” We’ll also have a food truck onsite.
June 21—Sample Ole Dallas Brewery’s Honky Tonk Brown Ale while listening to some the area’s best in honky tonk from Stepside Deluxe. Free samples for the first 100 people.
June 28—Caleb Davis is developing a reputation as one of the area’s best and most versatile musicians. He’s toured with gospel and country bands but can also put out riffs from Zeppelin and Pink Floyd.
July 5—A big repertoire of gospel, country and bluegrass standards emerge from Carolina Sonrise The first 100 people in attendance will enjoy a free barbecue sandwich.
July 12—Join Chelsea Locklear for her first performance at the Garden as she prepares for the release of her first album Lost in Thought. The Garden will also open a weekend Bonsai exhibit this evening and a food truck will be onsite.
July 19—Back for a repeat performance are the talented musicians from Stepside Deluxe, whose goal in life is to keep live music alive and well. The Garden will also have a food truck onsite.
July 26—Join us for a wine tasting and the vocal stylings of Jay Smith. The first 100 adults in attendance will receive free sampling tickets.
August 2—Join the groovy rockabilly band, Jem Crossland and the Hypertonics, as the Garden hosts its first-ever Nostalgia Game Night. The Garden wills also have a food truck onsite.
August 9— The Farmer’s Almanac says the Dog Day of Summer are July 3 to Aug. 11, so we’re celebrating their end with your dog! Bring you pooch, have drink and listen to the sounds of Demperio-Hertz. A food truck will also be on site.
August 16—Sample hard cider from Red Clay Ciderworks with free sampling tickets for the first 100 guests. Stepside Deluxe will also be on hand.
August 23—Enjoy music from Ellie Morgan and her sound that is best described as acoustic soulful pop, with influences from artists such as Taylor Swift, Adele, and Colbie Caillat. All teachers receive free admission 5 to 9 p.m. for one night only. Plus a food truck will be onsite.
August 30—Caleb Davis is back for a reprise performance. RE/MAX will also be offering free tethered balloon rides from RE/MAX and a food truck will be onsite.
Other activities include Sip & Paint classes on May 31, June 21, July 19 and Aug. 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. for adults over the age of 21 for $30 per guest. Guests must register in advance online at www.DSBG.org. Dr. Angel Hjarding, Pollinators & Wildlife Habitat Program Director at the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, will lead a discussion about pollinators Aug. 2 at 6 p.m. in the Visitor Pavilion.
Sip & Stroll is sponsored by presenting sponsor PNC Bank and supporting sponsors Overture Cotswold and Overture Providence. It’s free with general Garden admission. Admission for Garden members is free, $12.95 for adults, $11.95 for seniors 60+, and $6.95 for children 2-12. Through August, the Garden is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily with the exception of Thursdays in which the Garden will be open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. For more information call (704) 825-4490 or visit www.DSBG.org.
