February and March Bring Floral Celebrations, Fitness Classes to Garvan Woodland Gardens

Julia Mann

In early spring, this is one of the first trees to bloom at the koi pond at Garvan Woodland Gardens.

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – After being closed for the month of January, Garvan Woodland Gardens will reopen in February, just in time for the earliest blooms of the season.

The annual "Daffodil Days and Tulip Extravaganza" will begin in mid-February, celebrating the transition from winter to spring at Garvan Gardens. The display starts with blooming crocus, daffodils and hyacinths, followed closely by more than 150,000 Dutch tulips in brilliant hues. Spring annuals, dogwoods and azaleas also will bloom in the coming months. The timing of blooms is dependent on the weather. Up-to-date photos and peak bloom times can be found on the Garvan Gardens Facebook page.

Looking ahead to March, "Group Health Walks" will be held from 10:15-11:15 a.m. each Monday from March through May, with the first walk happening on March 1. Sharon Turrentine and friends will lead a three-mile walk. Walks will be held rain or shine. Participants should meet on the Welcome Center deck, and pets and strollers are welcome.

"Yoga at the Gardens" will take place from 10:30-11:30 a.m. March 6 and 20, at the Garvan Pavilion. Diana Esanu, a registered 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.

"Walk and Learn!" tours guided by Garvan Woodland Gardens docents will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 10 and 24. The hikes will help participants gain familiarity with the garden and stay updated on the current and recent construction projects within the garden. Participants should meet on the deck of the Welcome Center.

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, with the last admission sold at 5 p.m. 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 and in some garden areas. Check with garden staff about specific COVID-19 precautions and safety measures.

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