Garvan Woodland Gardens Reopens in February With Game Night, Workshops

Photo Submitted

This cherry tree on the far banks of the koi pond is always the first to bloom in the spring at Garvan Woodland Gardens.

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — After being closed for the month of January, Garvan Woodland Gardens will reopen to the public on Monday, Feb. 1, with special events beginning Feb. 4.

The "Laissez les bons temps rouler" game night will be held from 7-9 p.m. Feb. 4 in the Magnolia Room. There will be team games, prizes and New Orleans-themed treats. The event will benefit the Sugg Model Train Garden.

The "Cooking With Fresh Herbs: Mardi Gras Edition" workshop will be held from 2-4 p.m. Feb. 6, in Millsap Bridal Hall. Participants will learn how to cook using fresh herbs and other affordable ingredients, right before Fat Tuesday. Chef Mike Tripp of Rosemary Hill Herb Farm will prepare and serve a Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo. The menu also incudes a mixed greens salad and French bread.

A series of "Do it Yourself!: Gardening 101 Workshops" will be held throughout the day Feb. 20 in the Magnolia Room. Nolen Buffalo, owner and operator of The Water Buffalo in Little Rock, will lead four introductory classes for home cooks and gardeners. Participants will learn about the processes of making beer (from 9-11 a.m.), wine (from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and cheese (from 2-3:15 p.m.). From 3:30-5 p.m., they will discover ways to grow plants indoors during any season through hydroponics.

Garvan Woodland Gardens is the botanical garden of the University of Arkansas and part of the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design.

The gardens are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12 and free for children ages 5 and younger. Some events and activities are free. Some require a fee, advanced registration or prepayment.

For more information about these events or to check on upcoming events, call 501-262-9300 or 800-366-4664.