May 3, 2023
We Grow More Than Just Plants
At the Garden, we see Mother Nature’s capabilities every day. Whether it’s beautiful blooms in the Tropical Heart of our Global Collection Garden or the fruits and vegetables nearing harvest in the Culinary Garden, there are abundant examples of growth all around us. But, if you don’t know where to look, nature’s most important impacts can often go unnoticed.
We get just as excited about the connections that grow among our visitors through their interactions with each other in the context of the natural surroundings as we do the latest buds or pollinator sighting. We hear the positive influence of nature in the laughter at our social events, and see it in the amazed faces of children at our youth activities. It’s obvious in the joyfulness of our Sunday Concert Series, and the relaxation that permeates our wellness classes.
So, if you’re looking for new ways to connect with your family, relieve the stress of your responsibilities, or find an environment that supports personal growth, embrace the power of nature. This month, take advantage of the remaining pre-summer opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your loved ones. Whether it’s relaxing in your backyard, a quick stroll around the neighborhood, or a visit to the Garden, you’ll be glad you did.
Claudia Gee Vassar, President & General Counsel
On Sunday, May 14, we’re hosting an adults-only botanic tiaras and wine party from 2-4 p.m. Design a floral crown while you enjoy a glass of your favorite wine. Then spend some time exploring the Garden together with your gorgeous new accessories.
The 2023 edition of our Sunday Concert Series wraps up on May 14 with another performance from last year's Mother's Day artists, Annika Chambers and Paul DesLauriers. If your mom likes the blues, this opportunity to enjoy live music and the beauty of nature simultaneously can't be beat.
Blaggards are back for their third consecutive appearance in our Sunday Concert Series to rock the Garden this Sunday, May 7. This is one of only two remaining chances to experience awesome local musicians in the city’s most beautiful venue!
"We were absolutely shocked by the gorgeous facility. It’s set in nature and the surroundings are so serene. It’s a welcome change from the dark club scene.” -- Patrick Devlin, lead vocalist and guitarist
Come and enjoy a magical evening at The Secret Garden party (rescheduled from April). Delight in the natural wonders of the Garden, which will be enhanced by tantalizing cocktails, games, and special tastings. This garden-chic social gathering will be a fantastic opportunity to experience the Garden in a new and enchanting way. Get your tickets to this June 10 soiree today.
This month Yogi Ashokananda, a pioneer and practicing master of yoga, meditation, and spirituality, will lead yoga workshops in Texas for the first time. As he explained during an interview conducted recently, his approach to meditation is not about “just sitting like a zombie and zoning out.” Instead, he wants participants to focus on “self-love and acceptance” and notes that the Garden environment is ideal because “immersion in nature encourages personal growth.”
Claim your spot for his May 4 and May 9 classes today.
Be Nurtured by Nature
Get ready for the ultimate rejuvenation retreat this Saturday, May 6! Join us as we celebrate Mental Health Month with our wellness festival that integrates healthy food, personal fitness, and mental health best practices. This spring you can stay close-to-home yet also escape the daily grind to recharge and revitalize!
Explore our Events Calendar for even more opportunities for personal enrichment.
Mother Nature isn’t the only artist doing incredible work at the Garden right now. The talented Steve Tobin has enhanced the grounds with his world-class sculptures. This renowned craftsman’s work has previously graced the covers of major magazines like Time, Newsweek, and National Geographic.
With 20 beautifully mesmerizing installations, "Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks" will elevate your appreciation and amazement as you find yourself surrounded by massive bronze roots, intricately beautiful steel nests with magical eggs, and stainless-steel clouds.
The unique project is an incredible example of the power of public art and includes some never-before-seen in Texas sculptures. Make plans to view his creations in person before the installation closes August 13.
The Garden's biggest and most enjoyable fundraising event will be here before you know it, and we’re doing our best to make it unforgettable.
Co-chairs Kit and Carl Detering and April and Wells McGee are hard at work planning the event that will honor C. Michael Garver, Beth Garver Black, and Gretchen Garver Hilyard. Inspired by the Susan Garver Family Discovery Garden, we are delighted to announce that the theme of the luncheon this year is “Like a child, a garden will grow.”
Join us for the Garden's 2023 Annual Luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 12-1 p.m. at River Oaks Country Club.
Joe & Cathy Cleary are ardent supporters of the Garden.
Our 2023 annual fund campaign is now underway. We are proud of what we have built together, but we are not done. Please consider making a donation today to grow Houston’s garden. Thanks to a generous commitment made by Cathy and Joe Cleary, donations of $100 or more made by June 30, 2023, will be matched dollar for dollar up to $25,000.
You can donate to the Houston Botanic Garden at any time by visiting our website or texting give2garden to 41444.
Membership Perks
A membership to the Garden gets you more than access to 132 acres of gorgeous serenity. You’ll also enjoy discounts on classes and certain events. For example, your free admission benefit applies to the Sunday Concert Series.
And don’t forget to pick up your complimentary membership pin at the Ticket Window the next time you visit.
The Bloomers are nature-loving young professionals with a passion for the Garden. If that sounds like a fit, consider joining the flourishing next-generation group organizing many of our social events and volunteer activities. They have become an integral part of the Garden community and are always ready to add new members.
Make plans to attend the June 10 Secret Garden event hosted by the Bloomers for a chance to meet current members.
