Winter Celebration – A Garden Conservatory

From December 7 through January 5, the D. D. and Velma Davis Education and Visitor Center will be adorned with the best floral displays in the Valley for the annual Winter Celebration event. This year’s theme, “A Garden Conservatory” can be experienced from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. every day except Monday. Upon entering the Visitor Center, guests will immediately be greeted by an outdoor setting with evergreen trees, “snow” and plants. Hanging from the ceiling in the “conservatory” are ivy plants, kissing balls and decorative globes. An indoor gazebo which also features ivy plants, an 8ft. live poinsettia tree and an indoor fountain complete the theme.

The young and young at heart can experience the Children’s Greenhouse, where they can see, feel and touch the many plants growing there and learn about the important role that plants play in our daily lives. Over 45 holiday trees grace the lower level, each with its own motif. All the trees were decorated by local nonprofit organizations and reflect their service and mission.

The Weller Gallery exhibit showcases the work of James Michael and Company with exquisite hand blown glass of all shapes and sizes. Plan to have lunch in the Garden Café (11 a.m. – 3 p.m., daily) overlooking Lake Glacier and feel the warmth of the fireplace set in the Café for the holiday season. Wander into the Antonucci Horticulture Library and see the tree with handmade clothing and accessories by the Loose Knit Group, where all items will be donated to those in need. Your visit would not be complete without a stop in the Shop In The Gardens. Holiday finery, home decor, local cards, MetroParks images and books make wonderful gifts. A line of merchandise by artist Gary Bukovnik, along with winter blooming bulbs, is available for purchase.

The Winter Celebration does not end in the Visitor Center. Fellows Riverside Gardens will bring the holiday spirit outdoors during the Winter Nights, Sundays, December 15, 22 and 29 from 5 – 7 p.m. On these nights, visitors can stroll outdoors in the gardens, where an exciting light display and illuminated paths will expose a Gardens experience not normally found during the warm weather days. Inside, visitors will hear the sounds of music, taste hot cocoa and share in an activity in the Children’s Greenhouse.

For those wishing to make the evening more eventful, the Garden Café will serve dinner by The Georgetown on the Winter Nights – reservations are required and seating is limited. Call 330.740.7074 for details.

Mill Creek MetroParks, Fellows Riverside Gardens is proud to present this month-long free event. Please note special dates for Visitor Center hours: OPEN December 24, 30 and 31. CLOSED December 23, 25 and January 1.