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Celebrate Summer at the Garden

by JoAnne Zeterberg on May 1, 2008 in Things To Do |

When it comes to exploring the magnificent flora of the Sonoran Desert, one of the “coolest” places to be this summer is the Desert Botanical Garden. New exhibits, nighttime tours and live music are just a few of the highlights you won’t want to miss!

New Succulent Galleries Open to the Public – The Garden debuted its Sybil B. Harrington Cactus and Succulent Galleries in April. These new galleries feature dazzling displays of cacti and succulents that showcase the great diversity of form, texture, and color found in each of these collections. Designed by landscape architect, Steve Martino, FASLA, the galleries utilize steel mesh as the arching canopy to provide shade for the plants and support columns painted in a desert-hued red to accentuate the color and textures of the plants. Free with Garden admission.

Flashlight Tours Provide After-Dark Fun for All Ages – The Desert Botanical Garden’s popular Flashlight Tours are held every Thursday and Saturday evening from May through August. All tours begin at 7:00 p.m. and provide a sensory adventure during which you will see, hear and feel the desert at night, including nighthawks, tortoises, insects and night-blooming flowers. Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes. Free with Garden admission.

Concerts at the Garden – Jazz up your Friday nights with the Garden’s Spring Concert Series! Some of the Valley’s most popular jazz and blues artists take the stage at the Garden’s beautiful Ullman Terrace. Enjoy dinner and music under the stars with delectable fare purchased at the Garden’s Patio Café or a gourmet meal (advance purchase required) catered by Fabulous Food Fine Catering & Events. Tickets are $20 ($14 for Garden members) and guests must be at lest 21 years of age. Upcoming concerts include:

  • May 30 @ 7:00 p.m. Khani Cole, Smooth Jazz
  • June 6 @ 7:30 p.m. Pete Pancrazi, Traditional Jazz
  • June 13 @ 7:30 pm. Cinco de Moio, Latin Jazz
  • June 20 @ 7:30 p.m. Groove Defenders, Blues
  • June 27 @ 7:30 p.m. Sherry Petta, Smooth & Contemporary Jazz

For more information about the Desert Botanical Garden, including tour schedules, classes and special events, click here or call 480-421-1225.

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