October at Garvan Woodland Gardens Features Fall Celebrations, Outdoor Fitness Classes

Garvan Woodland Gardens

Colorful chrysanthemums are among the fall blooms and foliage on display at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs.

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Garvan Woodland Gardens marks the return of fall with weekly fall celebrations throughout October and a series of outdoor fitness programs.

The garden will celebrate the season with "Fall Celebration Saturdays" from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each Saturday during October, wrapping up with Halloween on Oct. 31. Each Saturday, the first 100 children to arrive at Garvan Gardens will receive a free take-home fall project that will vary each week. Children will also receive pumpkins on Oct. 24 and treat bags on Oct. 31. The Chipmunk Café will feature special fall treats, including chili, soup and pumpkin rolls. Visitors are invited to wear costumes as they enjoy the fall decorations and flowers. Masks are required for entry and in some areas of the garden.

"Group Health Walks" will be held from 10:15-11:15 a.m. each Monday through Nov. 30. Participants can stimulate their heart and senses as Sharon Turrentine leads the group around the beautiful grounds. Participants should meet in the Welcome Center, and pets and strollers are welcome. Masks are required for entry and in some garden areas.

"Yoga at the Gardens" will take place from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Oct. 17 and Nov. 7 and 21 at the Klipsch Amphitheatre. Diana Esanu, a yoga instructor, will teach the series, incorporating stretches, gentle poses, breath work and affirmations. A 10-minute guided meditation will follow. Participants are asked to bring their own mats.

The Tai Chi Series "Strength in Motion" will be held each Thursday through Oct. 29. Beginner Tai Chi will meet from 1-2 p.m., and advanced Tai Chi will meet from 2-3 p.m. All classes meet on the Great Lawn. The Oaklawn Center on Aging leads this ancient, low-impact practice that increases flexibility, balance and strength. Loose, comfortable clothing and comfortable footwear are recommended. Masks are required for entry and in some garden areas.

Garvan Woodland Gardens is the botanical garden of the University of Arkansas and part of the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design. The garden is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12, free for children ages 3 and younger, and $5 for dogs on a short leash. Some events and activities are free. Some require a fee, advance registration or prepayment.

Masks are required for entry to Garvan Gardens. The interiors of Anthony Chapel and the Weyerhaeuser Bonsai Center are closed to the public. Restrooms at the Grooms Quarters and Brides Hall are also closed to the public. Golf Cart Tours are available on a limited basis. Café hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

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