Special Events & Programs 2015-16 by Bok Tower Gardens

Special Events & Programsâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; 2015-16 Find Your

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cover photo: Michael Potthast

Bok Tower Gardens’ deep roots in music appreciation, landscape design, architecture, gardening and cultural heritage have guided the creation of programs for the last 86 years. Now, we are proud to present new and exciting events alongside tried and true programs— new formats, new spaces and a new discipline has been added to the Gardens’ offerings: Food & Wellness.

As anticipation for our new garden spaces grows, upcoming programs offer the public opportunities to learn about food preparation, gardening, physical wellness and the culture of our culinary roots. Our community’s interest in healthy living isn’t just a trendy event or hot topic; it is a way of life for so many looking for fresh food options and resources to stay fit.

Give a Gift Membership

Volunteer With Us

Share the Gardens with a friend! Current members can always purchase a gift membership for $5 off regular prices. Call 863.734.1233.

Make friends, support the Gardens and receive wonderful benefits. We’re always looking for new, friendly faces to help around the Gardens, in the office, at events, and with educational programs. Call 863.734.1211.

Contact Us Tickets & Reservations boktowergardens.org/tickets 863.734.1222 Membership boktowergardens.org/membership 863.734.1233

We invite you to experience the 2015-16 season of activities, and use this guide to find your passion, your peace, your place at one of our upcoming events.

Education boktowergardens.org/education 863.734.1221

Hours Open 365 Days a Year! 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. with last admission at 5 p.m.

Prices & Discounts Events and programs listed are included in Gardens admission unless noted otherwise. Members receive a 10% discount unless the event is marked with an asterisk.

Weddings & Rentals

Group Tours

Bok Tower Gardens offers the ideal setting for wedding ceremonies & receptions, corporate events, and social gatherings. Combined with the beauty of our natural setting, historic charm and efficient amenities, we have the perfect space for your next event. Call 863.734.1214.

Let us accommodate your group of 20 or more with conveniences and services to make the most of your visit to the Gardens. Our customized packages offer reduced rates and free parking with additional options including Pinewood Estate tours, special events, guided garden walks, dining choices and more! Call 863.734.1222.

nov

Artist Reception:

Blair Updike

6:00 p.m.

OCT

16 thru

JAN

“Gardens & Groves” by Blair Updike

Blair Updike’s oilbased landscape paintings reflect stillness, peace and solitude. Bok Tower Gardens is proud to present art exhibits with a cultural connection to the Central Florida region.

Meet local artist Blair Updike and share her love of blue skies, gardens and orange groves, twisted trees, and the way light plays across meadows and bays. $10 per person. Free to members only. Reservations required.

nov

Orange in January”

author Dianna Hutts Aston

Fall Film Series:

Fabulous Frogs 3:30 p.m.

Sir David Attenborough takes us on a journey through the weird and wonderful world of frogs, shedding new light on these bizarre little animals through first-hand stories and cutting‑edge technology.

3 | Special Events & Programs 2015-16

and

nov

Bok Tower Gardens partners with the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame to present an inside look into Florida’s citrus industry through a variety of fun, free programs, featuring the Citrus Label Show & Sale both days. Free orange juice, special talks, tours, films and fun activities take place throughout the weekend. Plus, a new, local art exhibit, Gardens & Groves by Blair Updike, will be on display in the Visitor Center.

10:00 am Family story time in the Gardens for children ages 3 to 6

Storytime in the Gardens: “An

Saturday, Nov. 7

nov

nOv

11:00 am Meet Miss Florida Citrus 12:00 pm “Eat a Florida Orange” flash-mob-style selfie

10:00 a.m.

2:00 pm

Cooking with Citrus

Stop by for nature-themed stories and play designed for children ages 3 to 6, accompanied by a caregiver.

3:30 pm

Citrus Grove Tours with John Jackson, Former UF/ IFAS Extension Agent and President of the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame

nov

Fall Film Series:

My Life as a Turkey

3:30 p.m.

After a local farmer left a bowl of eggs on Joe Hutto’s front porch, his life was forever changed. One man’s remarkable experience of raising a group of wild turkey hatchlings to adulthood.

Sunday, Nov. 8 11:00 am Meet Miss Florida Citrus 12:00 pm “Eat a Florida Orange” flash-mob-style selfie 3:30 pm

Citrus Grove Tours with John Jackson, Former UF/ IFAS Extension Agent and President of the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame

863.734.1222 | boktowergardens.org

nov

Veterans Day Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

A musical salute of gratitude to our nation’s veterans and members of America’s armed forces. Free admission offered to active, retired, honorably discharged and disabled veterans of all military branches with valid ID. nov

Members Only:

Founder’s Room Tours

9:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m.

Members at the Sustainer level and above are invited to an exclusive tour of the Founder’s Room inside the Singing Tower. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations required at 863.734.1233. nov

nOv

Polk County Family Week

thru

nov Visit the Gardens

and help support families in need. Receive free admission with the donation of items like blankets, toiletries and non‑perishable food items. nov

Fall Film Series:

On the Wings of the Monarch

3:30 p.m.

Join video host Libby Graham on an amazing journey into the life of the monarch butterfly, tracing its incredible long-distance migration to a site in Mexico where 40 million butterflies were found. Features informative interviews and stunning slow‑motion photography.

Grow Your Mind:

Hypertufa Containers 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Learn how to make your own hypertufa container in this workshop led by master gardeners. Using a mix of cement, peat moss and vermiculite/perlite, prepare to get messy as you create and take home a piece of art that will be the highlight of your garden! $15 per person. Supplies included. Reservations required. events included with admission unless noted

Inspired by the Tower and Gardens, young artists will create original art in a variety of media. Graphite, charcoal, collagemaking, card-printing, and watercolor will be explored. Some sketching of trees and flowers as weather permits. $25 per person. Supplies included. Reservations required. nov

Fall Film Series:

Why We Love Cats & Dogs

3:30 p.m.

Pets become our best friends, soul mates, family members, and even surrogate children. Why are we so attached? Experts and pet owners share insights and observations about this unbreakable bond and reveal how dogs and cats share our emotions in many significant ways.

26 Lunch & Learn:

Young Artist’s Workshop

9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (Ages 6-9) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Ages 10-17)

nov

Thanksgiving Day Carillon Concerts

Herbs

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Experience Edward Bok’s gift of historic Olmsted gardens and the Singing Tower carillon with concerts featuring thankful hymns and tunes. Café and gift shop open noon to 5 p.m.

Join us for an overview of herbs that can be grown in Central Florida, with valuable tips for successful herb gardening. Presented by the Polk County UF/IFAS Extension.

Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 4

nov

27 thru

jan

Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens

Celebrate the season and enjoy our time-honored poinsettia, amaryllis, and bromeliad displays while listening to a holiday carillon concert. Holiday blooms abound in the River of Stone with hand-made poinsettia bouquets and ornaments, while peaceful white arrangements adorn oak trees outside Pinewood Estate. Carillon concerts are at 1 & 3 p.m. daily.

nov

27 thru

jan

Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate To Grandfather’s House We Go 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Delight in a glittering showcase of custom-designed, timehonored Christmas decorations at the 21st annual Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate. Tour the 20-room, Mediterranean-style mansion decked out for the season with this year’s design theme, “To Grandfather’s House We Go.” Prices include general Gardens admission. $20/adult; $9/child ages 5-12. Members: $7/adult; $6/child ages 5-12. Children under 5 admitted free. nov

27 thru

jan

Winter Walking Tours 12:00 & 2:00 p.m. Sunday only 2:00 p.m.

Volunteer garden guides lead visitors on an hour-long walking tour while sharing information about the winter flora and fauna, with tours leading from the Visitor Center to the Singing Tower.

dec

1930s Holi-DAYS 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

dec

Be sure to see the vintage Model A cars dec outside Pinewood Estate, meet historical characters from the 1930s, and catch a few surprise personalities from the past.

15 22 dec

Storytime in the Gardens:

“How Full is Your Bucket” authors Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer 10:00 a.m.

Stop by for an inspiring story about giving and play designed for children ages 3 to 6, accompanied by a caregiver. dec

Holiday Happy Hour

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Join your friends for an early evening tour of Pinewood Estate and toast the season with a complimentary drink, light fare and holiday tunes. $15/ person. Open to ages 21 and up. 5 | Special Events & Programs 2015-16

863.734.1222 | boktowergardens.org

dec

Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert

with Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra 6:00 p.m.

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and Singing Tower carillon capture the spirit of the holidays during one of Central Florida’s favorite outdoor concerts. Families and friends are encouraged to prepare themed picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain. Last entry to Pinewood at 5 p.m. Advance tickets: $20/adult; $8/child ages 5-12. Children under 5 admitted free.

dec

Members Only:

Founder’s Room Tours

9:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m.

Holiday Workshop:

Boondoggles

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Local artist Catherine Price leads a workshop designing beautiful holiday décor using palm fronds to create “boondoggles.” $15/person. Supplies included. Reservations required.

events included with admission unless noted

dec

Carillon & Chorale featuring Harrison School for the Arts 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy an hour-long carillon concert with a live choir under the stars. Visit Pinewood Estate for a special nighttime tour complete with hot chocolate and cookies. Light dinner available at the café before the concert for an additional fee. Last entry to Pinewood at 9 p.m. Concert Only: $5/person, free for members only. Concert & Home Tour: $13/person, $7 for members.

dec

Christmas Day Carillon Concerts 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Celebrate Christmas Day at the Gardens with free Holiday Home Tours, and enjoy the sounds of the season with live concerts on the Singing Tower. Café, gift shop and Holiday Home Tour open noon to 5 p.m. Free tours subject to availability, see boktowergardens.org/christmas for details. jan

New Year’s Day Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

“For auld lang syne!” Ring in the New Year with special musical selections on the Singing Tower. Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 6

jan

Peak Bloom Walking Tours

thru

12:00 & 2:00 p.m. Sunday only 2:00 p.m.

apr

Volunteer garden guides lead visitors on an hour-long walking tour while sharing information about the springtime flora and fauna, with tours leading from the Visitor Center to the Singing Tower. jan

Glades to Gulf Film Screening

Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Join the Florida Wildlife Corridor team on their trek from the Everglades to the northernmost point of the Gulf Coast. This expedition highlights stories of regional ecological importance followed by a reception with drinks and light fare. $15/person. Reservations required.

jan

thru

jan

Walk & Talk:

Wild Weeds & Herbs 10:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.

Enjoy a walk with herbalist Emily Ruff to identify edible and medicinal plants growing all around us by touch, smell and taste. $20/person. Open to ages 10 and up. Reservations required. jan

Edward Bok Memorial Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Commemorate the life of Edward W. Bok who died today in 1930, less than a year after the Singing Tower was dedicated.

Yoga in the Gardens Wednesdays & Fridays 9:00 a.m.

mar Slip off your shoes, open your arms,

and experience the Gardens like never before! Join instructor Tracy Wynter for an all-level series of 60-minute Yoga classes. Sessions begin with a brief centering and evolve into a flow of movement and meditation. Comfortable outdoor dress recommended. Bring your own exercise mat, water bottle and other supplies. $10/class. Open to ages 16 and up. Reservations required.

thru

apr

“Florida Impressions” Jayne Crews- Linton

Local artist Jayne Crews-Linton presents traditional oil and watercolor paintings depicting Florida landscapes. jan

Discovery Station:

Good Bugs, Bad Bugs

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Learn how to identify both beneficial and damaging bugs that you might find in your garden. We will also offer tips on how to control bad bugs and ideas for how to attract good ones.

jan

Dog Day of Winter 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Leashed and friendly dogs are invited for this special day with activities including dog health and safety information, adoptions, boutique items, contests, and more. $5/dog, 50% benefits the Polk County Humane Society. Regular human admission applies.

Singing Tower Carillon

Holiday Concerts

Home of the world- famous Singing Tower, Bok Tower Gardens proudly celebrates the history and music of our 60-bell carillon. This musical instrument was commissioned in 1928 by the Gardens founder, Edward Bok, and his love of carillon music continues today. Carillon concerts are played daily at 1 & 3 p.m., with live concerts from mid-October through mid-May along with moonlight performances.

NOV 26 Thanksgiving Day

Moonlight Concerts JAN 20 From Stage & Screen FEB 19 Romantic Evergreens

NOV 11 Veterans Day

DEC 25 Christmas Day JAN 1

New Year’s Day

JAN 9

Edward Bok Memorial

JAN 18 Martin L. King, Jr. Day FEB 14 Valentine’s Day FEB 15 Presidents Day MAR 17 St. Patrick’s Day

MAR 21 Best of Broadway

MAY 21 Armed Forces Day

APR 19 American Favorites

MAY 30 Memorial Day

jan

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Carillon Concerts 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Celebrate the life of humanitarian and civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr., who championed the cause of unity among all people.

We have a long history when it comes to composition and carillon students. Some of the most important American carillon composers of the 20th century were inspired by the beauty of this place. - Geert D’hollander

The Next Generation of Carillonneurs World-class carillon students have the unique opportunity to study under Carillonneur Geert D’hollander thanks to a fellowship program made possible by Paul and Carol Collins. Visitors can enjoy live carillon music at the Gardens daily now through mid-May.

Lunch & Learn

jan

Gardening in Florida is very different than in other parts of the U.S., but can be productive and fun if you know how! Bok Tower Gardens is proud to partner with the University of Florida’s IFAS Extension Service to provide programs that enable Florida residents to learn the best practices and methods to garden successfully in this unique environment. Bring your favorite lunch, picnic in the Gardens, or opt for a fresh choice from the Blue Palmetto Café for an additional charge.

UF/IFAS Extension

Bok Tower Gardens

Nov 18 Herbs

Feb 10 Pine Ridge Nature Preserve

Jan 20 Top Ten Tips for Your Landscape Design

Mar 2

Mar 16 Landscaping with Edibles

Apr 13 Invasive Plants

Rare Plant Story

May 11 Worm Farming

Lunch & Learn:

Top Ten Tips for Your Landscape Design 12:00 p.m.

Learn how to create your own landscape design! UF/IFAS Master Gardeners teach you the top ten tips for success. This is an easy do-it-yourself program, with no special skills required. jan

Moonlight Carillon Concert:

From Stage & Screen 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy a carillon concert under the light of a full moon, a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens after-hours. Opt to have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café before the concert for an additional fee. $5/person. Free to members only. jan

Grow Your Mind

Grow Your Mind:

Primary Permaculture

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Florida, the land of flowers as named by Ponce de León, shelters many secrets for the curious mind.

NOV 14 Hypertufa Containers

We offer an array of programs for you to enjoy exploring, celebrating and learning about Florida’s natural wonders as well as some opportunities to get your hands dirty and experiment with fermented foods.

FEB 6

JAN 23 Primary Permaculture JAN 30 The Garden as a Wildlife Sanctuary Fearless Food Fermentation

FEB 20 Vegetable & Herb Gardening MAR 19 Florida Geology APR 16 Painted Buntings

Join us for a day-long introduction to permaculture, led by herbalist Emily Ruff. Rapidly growing in popularity, this unique ancient system is a way of growing food that minimizes labor and increases crop yield. Interact with living examples of plant guilds and polycultures and learn about permaculture ethics and garden designs. A take-home project is included in this program. $75/person. Reservations required. 863.734.1222 | boktowergardens.org

jan

Beginning Watercolors

jan

The Garden as a Wildlife Sanctuary

w/ Instructor Cathy Futral 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Learn wash, wet-in-wet, and dry-brush watercolor techniques, color mixing and layering. Students will produce landscape and floral studies and have a chance to paint en plein air in the Gardens. $85/ person. Breakfast, lunch and supplies provided. Reservations required. jan

28 thru

apr

Garden Watercolor Club 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Less formal than watercolor classes, instructor Owen Jolly leads demonstrations, en plein air and self-directed activities. Intermediate and advanced students explore painting techniques and drawing skills. Discover your creativity! Entire series: $200/person. jan

29 and

jan

Members Only:

Tower Key Society Breakfast

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Members with 20 or more years of membership are invited to a special breakfast, a private viewing of rarely-seen archival items, and an opportunity to be among the first to cross the moat around the Singing Tower. Reservations required at 863.734.1233. events included with admission unless noted

Grow Your Mind:

10:00 a.m.

jan

30 and

jan

Founder’s Day Weekend Celebration

Nationally-recognized author, photographer and design consultant Rick Darke will illustrate how an understanding of living layers and biodiversity can be put to practical use in the making and maintenance of home gardens and community landscapes. Presentation will feature photography at Bok Tower Gardens and related Florida landscapes. $10/person. Reservations required.

Crossing the Moat & Live Carillon Concerts 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

A rare opportunity to pass through the historic iron Yellin gates and cross the moat for a closer look at the Singing Tower’s Great Brass Door. Carillonneur Geert D’hollander performs special concerts at 1 & 3 p.m.

Mysteries of the Singing Tower Guided Tour 12:00 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Attend a guided tour of the Singing Tower’s exterior, highlighting its history, artistry, architecture and construction, followed by a special carillon concert and historical artifacts display.

jan

Music at Pinewood: Rising

Artist Series

Harrison School for the Arts 4:00 p.m. presented in partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council

The Harrison School for the Arts presents a compilation of performances from their guitar, vocal and strings programs. Highlights include classical favorites and popular tunes. $25/concert or $85/series. Reservations required. Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 10

feb

Storytime in the Gardens:

Compost Stew

author Mary McKenna Siddals 10:00 a.m.

Stop by for nature-themed stories and play designed for children ages 3 to 6, accompanied by a caregiver. feb

Rising Artist Series Presented in partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council $25/concert or $85/series. Reservations required. jan 31 Harrison School for the Arts feb 28 Southeastern University mar 20 Florida Southern College apr 17 Harrison School for the Arts The Rising Artist Series features up and coming artists in an intimate setting at Pinewood Estate. Faculty and hand-picked scholars from Harrison School for the Arts, Polk State College and Southeastern University perform a variety of classical programs with piano, strings, woodwinds, guitar and vocals.

Walk & Talk:

Wetlands 10:00 a.m.

Join us on World Wetlands Day as UF/IFAS Natural Resources and Conservation Agent Shannon Carnevale shows how wetlands provide flood control and drought resistance while serving as a wildlife habitat. Optional up‑close tour of the new wildlife pond to follow. Closed‑toe shoes required; comfortable outdoor dress recommended. $5/person. Open to ages 10 and up. feb

Walk & Talk:

Camellias

10:00 a.m.

Take a walking tour of the Gardens in bloom with Director of Horticulture Greg Kramer. Witness the colorful displays of camellias, azaleas and more. Learn about the history of these beautiful plants and how to care for your own. feb

Artist Reception:

Jayne Crews-Linton

6:00 p.m.

Meet local artist Jayne CrewsLinton and share her love of Florida landscapes. $10/person. Free to members only. Reservations required.

feb

Grow Your Mind:

Fearless Food Fermentation 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Don’t be afraid of fermentation, the process used to make delicious and nutritious live-culture foods and drinks. In this hands-on workshop with instructor Rose Kalajian, learn the ancient art of culturing foods to make sauerkraut, which is rich in healthy probiotics. $15/person. Reservations required. feb

Lunch & Learn: Pine

Ridge Nature Preserve

12:00 p.m.

Take an armchair tour of the Pine Ridge Preserve with our land steward, Katrina Noland, and learn about the endangered longleaf pine forest. 863.734.1222 | boktowergardens.org

feb

15 feb Love in

Bloom Reunion Celebration

11:00 a.m.

Were you married at the Gardens? Join your fellow brides and grooms for this unique reunion celebrating 40 years of couples who tied the knot here. Bring your photos and take new ones, share your wedding stories, and cross the moat. Reservations required at 863.734.1233. feb

Valentine’s Day Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Love is in the air! Spend a romantic day together at the Gardens enjoying special selections on the Singing Tower carillon surrounded by colorful spring blooms. A great place to pop the question or say “I Do!” feb

Valentine’s Dinner at Pinewood Estate:

A Night In Havana 7:00 p.m.

Treat your loved one to a sultry, spicy evening of Cuban‑inspired food and entertainment at historic Pinewood Estate. Full‑course dinner, cocktails, and romance included! $225/ couple. Reservations required. Sells out quickly!

Presidents Day Carillon Concerts

1:00p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Commemorate the day with special carillon concerts featuring patriotic selections. feb

Intermediate Watercolors w/ Instructor Cathy Futral 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. feb

Members Only:

Founder’s Room Tours 9:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m.

Review various watercolor techniques, create landscape and floral studies, and paint en plein air in the Gardens. Breakfast, lunch and some supplies provided. Participants supply paints, palette and brushes. $75/person. Reservations required.

Moonlight Carillon Concert:

Romantic Evergreens 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy a carillon concert under the light of a full moon, a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens afterhours. Opt to have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café before the concert for an additional fee. $5/person. Free to members only. events included with admission unless noted

feb

Grow Your Mind:

Vegetable & Herb Gardening 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Join local expert Ray Cruze and learn the basics of planting your own garden, from seed to table. This interactive class includes a hands-on project to take home. $35/person. Reservations required. Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 12

feb

Discovery Station:

Birds of Prey

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Eat... Drink... Be Healthy Lake Flato Architects of San Antonio has designed an inviting outdoor open kitchen space in harmony with the landscape. Edible display gardens surrounding the kitchen are a welcoming destination for educational activities and events showcasing lifestyle gardening and the culinary arts. Cooking demonstrations, evening receptions, school programs, and private rentals make this new area a hub of horticultural and culinary activity.

Culture & Cocktails $10/person Mar 3 Americana Apr 7 Jazz May 5 Latin

Florida birds of prey are diverse in color, size, and shape and possess great hunting skills. Join Reinier Munguia and some of Audubon’s resident birds to learn some interesting facts for kids and adults of all ages.

feb

Family Camping Adventure* 6:00 p.m.

A unique opportunity to camp out in the Gardens and explore nature through a variety of walks, crafts and activities. Dinner and breakfast included. Bring your own tent and sleeping bags. An additional supply list will be provided. $20/ person. Open to ages 5 and up. Reservations required. Sells out quickly! feb

Rising Artist Series

feb

Music at Pinewood:

Fresh Bites:

Healthy Snacks 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Stop by and hang out in our new outdoor kitchen and enjoy light snack samples using ingredients from our edible garden. $5/person.

Fresh Bites $5/person Feb 27 Healthy Snacks Mar 26 Edible Petals

Southeastern University 4:00 p.m. presented in partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council

Led by Music Department Chair Professor Charles Hulin, the Southeastern University faculty trio, Spiritus, will perform Brahms B Major Trio along with selected student performances on strings. $25/concert or $85/series. Reservations required.

Apr 30 Salsa Day May 28 Pizza Plants

* indicates no member discount

863.734.1222 | boktowergardens.org

mar

Peter & the Wolf 7:30 p.m.

thru

Join us for this new theatrical and musical presentation of the 1936 classic children’s composition by Sergei Prokofiev. This oneof-a-kind presentation will feature an Oscar‑winning short film in perfect concert with the carillon and live narrator at the Singing Tower. $15/ person; Recommended ages 12 and up. Reservations required. mar

mar Lunch & Learn:

Rare Plant Story

12:00 p.m.

It’s a tale of mystery and intrigue with an unusual protagonist—a rare plant. Learn about one of Florida’s rarest plants and our efforts to preserve unique local flora from the Gardens own biologist, Cheryl Peterson.

mar

Culture & Cocktails:

Americana 6:00 p.m.

Join us at our new outdoor kitchen for food and fun! Wood-fired artisan pizza, locally-brewed craft beers, 50s & 60s music, and mid‑century pop artwork. $10/person. Reservations required.

mar

Walk & Talk:

Azaleas 10:00 a.m.

mar Storytime

in the Gardens:

“Jack’s Garden”

author Henry Cole 10:00 a.m.

Stop by for nature-themed stories and play designed for children ages 3 to 6, accompanied by a caregiver.

Walk & Talk:

Wildflowers 10:00 a.m.

Learn about native wildflowers and their ecology. In partnership with South Florida State College’s Pygmy Fringe Tree Wildflower Festival, Gardens staff will host a walk through some of our natural areas. mar Members Only:

Founder’s Room Tours

9:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:45 p.m.

mar

Orchid Days

Join us to celebrate one of our mar favorite plants! Orchid vendors and growers from around Florida will showcase and sell beautiful orchids of all kinds. Be sure to explore the Gardens to discover and enjoy our own orchid displays. and

mar Discovery Station:

Dig in with Food Sculptures

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

mar

Lunch & Learn:

Landscaping with Edibles 12:00 p.m.

Incorporating edible plants into your ornamental landscape can be fun, easy and beautiful. Learn which species will bring interest to your garden and enjoyment to your kitchen. Presented by the UF/IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program. mar

St. Patrick’s Day Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Stroll the blooming Gardens and enjoy the many shades of green as tunes from the Emerald Isle play on the Singing Tower carillon.

15 | Special Events & Programs 2015-16

Momma always said, “Don’t play with your food!” Well, here’s your chance to dig in and eat some too! Join UF/IFAS Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Whitney Fung for some hands‑on creations and tastings made from different fruits, vegetables and foods.

mar

Music at Pinewood:

Rising Artist Series Florida Southern College

5:00 p.m. presented in partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council

In this special chamber music performance, difficult and daring pieces from Ysave, Paganini, Rossini and others will be performed by Professor Menchan on cello, Byron Marc Sean on piano, and Francisco Salazar Vara on violin. $25/concert or $85/series. Reservations required.

mar

Grow Your Mind:

Florida Geology 10:30 a.m.

Explore the geological history of Florida with author and professor Dr. Albert Hine. Learn about Dr. Hine’s clear and accessible approach which reveals the secrets of how the Sunshine State was formed. $10/person. Reservations required.

mar Moonlight Carillon

Concert: Best of Broadway

8:30 p.m.

mar Fresh Bites:

Edible Petals

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Stop by and hang out in our new outdoor kitchen and enjoy light snack samples using ingredients from our edible garden. $5/person.

mar

apr

Storytime in the Gardens:

“A Fruit is a Suitcase for Seeds” author Jean Richards 10:00 a.m.

Art Exhibits Bok Tower Gardens is proud to present art exhibits with a cultural connection to the Central Florida region, showcased in the Visitor Center daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Stop by for nature‑themed stories and play designed for children ages 3 to 6, accompanied by a caregiver.

apr

90th Easter Sunrise Service

Culture & Cocktails: Jazz

7:00 a.m.

6:00 p.m.

Easter morning worshippers are offered free admission from 6 – 8 a.m. to experience our 90th annual sunrise service with full choir, brass ensemble, live carillon performances, and inspirational Easter message delivered by local clergy. A buffet breakfast will be served in the Blue Palmetto Café following, for an additional fee.

Join us at our new outdoor kitchen for food and fun! Ethnic cuisine, jazz music, mixed cocktails, and Highwaymen artwork. $10/person. Reservations required. apr

Discovery Station: Plant

Parts We Eat

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

From the roots to the flowers, we can eat many parts of plants! UF/IFAS Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Whitney Fung takes your senses on a journey. Kids will take home some tasty ideas to share with the family.

events included with admission unless noted

Oct 16 – jan 14 “Gardens & Groves” by Blair Updike jan 15 – apr 16 “Florida Impressions” by Jayne Crews-Linton apr 17 – july 14 “Koi” by Patty Lovell

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Lunch & Learn:

Invasive Plants

12:00 p.m.

Learn about the mounting threat of non-native, invasive plants to our native species and habitats with Bok Tower Gardens’ own gardener, Shea Keene. apr

Grow Your Mind:

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Music at Pinewood: Rising

Painted Buntings Artist Series

10:30 a.m.

Join Lake Region Audubon Society’s Reinier Munguia to learn about this beautiful multi-colored songbird, which can be found regularly at birdfeeders during their spring and fall migration. $10/person. Reservations required.

Harrison School for the Arts 5:00 p.m. presented in partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council

The Harrison School for the Arts presents a compilation of performances from their guitar, vocal and strings programs. Highlights will include classical favorites and popular tunes. $25/concert or $85/series. Reservations required. apr

19 apr

17 thru

“Koi”

july Patty Lovell

Local artist Patty Lovell’s paintings and photography celebrate marvelous, colorful Koi in the final exhibit of the season. Bok Tower Gardens is proud to present art exhibits with a cultural connection to the Central Florida region.

17 | Special Events & Programs 2015-16

Moonlight Carillon Concert:

American Favorites 8:30 p.m.

* indicates no member discount

Night Hike 8:00 p.m.

Unravel the mysteries of the nighttime sights and sounds of the Gardens! Watch for nocturnal animals and the glow of spider eyes while listening to creatures of the night by moonlight. The tour will be guided by UF/IFAS Natural Resources & Conservation Agent Shannon Carnevale and is appropriate for all levels of hiking experience on uneven terrain. Closed‑toe shoes required; comfortable outdoor dress recommended. $5/person. Open to ages 10 and up. Reservations required. apr

Carillon Classic 5K Run/Walk*

7:30 a.m.

The sounds of the carillon fill the air as runners traverse Iron Mountain’s 3.2-mile trail-like course from flatlands and hills to asphalt, rock and mulch. This is Bok Tower Gardens’ 5th annual signature run, presented in partnership with the Dick Pope Polk County Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association. Proceeds will benefit local charities. Registration available spring 2016.

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may

Fresh Bites:

Salsa Day

Armed Forces Day Carillon Concerts

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Stop by and hang out in our new outdoor kitchen and enjoy light snack samples using ingredients from our edible garden. $5/person.

Honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have given their lives to preserve our freedom. Free admission offered to active, retired, honorably discharged and disabled veterans of all military branches with valid ID.

may

and

may

Culture & Cocktails: Latin 6:00 p.m.

Join us at our new outdoor kitchen for food and fun! A Latin cultural celebration with Cuban cuisine, live guitar music and sangria. $10/person. Reservations required. may

National Public Gardens Day

This national event raises awareness about the role America’s public gardens play in promoting environmental stewardship. Behind-the-scenes tours and other educational opportunities are offered. Your Gardens membership also allows you admission into participating gardens throughout the nation.

Mother’s Day Weekend at Bok Tower Gardens

Why stop at a flower bouquet when you can give Mom an entire garden? Free admission is offered to all mothers on Sunday, May 8 for our huge weekend Plant Sale. Enjoy live carillon concerts at 1 & 3 p.m. and special menu selections in the Blue Palmetto Café. may

Container Gardens for Mom

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Make Mom a beautiful and personalized Mother’s Day container garden. $15/person. Reservations required. may

Lunch & Learn:

Worm Farming

12:00 p.m.

Learn about worms, their need for bedding, what they eat, a little anatomy, and recycling advantages. Make a mini worm farm to take home. Presented by the Polk County UF/IFAS Extension.

events included with admission unless noted

may

Fresh Bites:

Pizza Plants

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Stop by and hang out in our new outdoor kitchen and enjoy light snack samples using ingredients from our edible garden. $5/person. may

Memorial Day Carillon Concerts

1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.

Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 18

School Programs Building on more than 85 years of excellence, Bok Tower Gardens provides authentic and engaging educational experiences. Our goal is to connect and engage learners of all ages through quality programming that fosters appreciation, builds knowledge, and cultivates a sense of wonder. Bok Tower Gardens offers students rich experiential opportunities. Our new student-led discovery Adventure Field Trip Program offers a number of themed, guided adventures aligned with state standards.

Registration and more information: boktowergardens.org/learn 863.734.1221

Field Trips Guided Adventures Choose from the field trips described below. Your class trip can be modified to fit the grade level of your students and the time you have available. Programs emphasize student-led discovery through a variety of hands-on activities and guided explorations. Programs are cross‑curricular and align with state standards. $7 per student and teacher/ chaperone. One free adult for every five students.

2 Time Traveler

Grades 3–5

Download your FAQ and Garden Explorations packets to make the most of your visits. boktowergardens.org/tools

The Bok Tower Gardens Education Department aims to provide three core values through its offerings:

• Authentic, Engaging Experiences • Academic Excellence, Integrity & Respect • Accessibility for All Audiences

See the elaborate sundial at the base of the Singing Tower as your students chart the equinox and solstice. They will use their compasses to determine the direction of the Tower and use models to investigate why it might not line up in the direction they first hypothesized. Finally, they will study the analemma in the Endangered Plant Garden and see how the tilt of the earth and its elliptical orbit can be used to tell the month of the year from just a shadow.

Math in the Gardens

Grades K–3

Watch your students become entranced with math as they find shapes, patterns, transformations and reflections in the stunning Tower and Gardens. Enjoy seeing your class play with perspective as they take the Tower Challenge. Optional add in: students examine the remarkable gardens surrounding the Singing Tower and use measurements to design their own garden beds in a challenge with increasing levels of difficulty. This is a great project to launch or revitalize your school garden.

The Joy of Bugs

Grades K–3

Become a Citizen Scientist Grades 3 –5

Building Character

$3 additional per student Grades K–12

Students will learn teamwork, courtesy and kindness as they work together to solve challenges they cannot solve alone in this team-buiding course. Include a picnic lunch and a walk to the Tower to give each student a chance to reflect on their own character and imagine how they will make the world a bit better and more beautiful. This is a three-hour program with a minimum of 30 students. For middle and high school grades, this trip can be combined with a treeclimbing challenge for an additional fee.

See your students gain appreciation for living in this remarkable region when they make the Pine Ridge Preserve the center of their visit. Learn about the remarkable and rare plants of the Lake Wales Ridge ecosystems and the ways that Bok Tower Gardens’ Rare Plant Conservation Program is working to save them. Your students will work in teams to collect data while exploring the high and dry Pine Ridge Preserve. Students perform the tasks of zoologists, geologists, botanists and hydrologists. Optional add in: compare the Ridge ecosystem with the wetlands at Circle B Bar Reserve by collecting and comparing data from both locations.

Bug lovers and those who find them a bit icky will all have fun as they learn the key features of insects and arthropods, use a visual key to identify common insects, and go on a hunt for pollinators. Students may survey the garden for pests and beneficial insects. They will collect data on monarchs and dragonflies for scientists around the world working to save these species.

Growing Writers

Grades 3–5

Use Bok Tower Gardens and the extraordinary story of Edward Bok to motivate and inspire your students. Explore the Gardens from the Singing Tower to the Pine Ridge Preserve with a writer’s eye, collecting observations, facts, and comparisons for your students’ own work of historical fiction.

Self-Guided Explorations (Grades PK–12) Teachers and parents are welcome to bring students of all ages for self-guided visits. The “Garden Explorations” packet is available for K-5 teachers to help you make the most of your visit. $3 per student and $7 per teacher/chaperone. One free adult for every five students. Add self-guided Pinewood Estate tours to any field trip for $5 per person, excluding the Holiday Home Tour. Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 20

Environmental Heroes Quilt Project

Upper elementary and middle school students are invited to participate.

Steps to complete:

Borrow an environmental hero biography the Gardens.

2 sion: he Your Mis l inspire t oes. il w t a h t t a quil nta l her To create nvironme e f o n o ti a r next gene

Fill out a super short book review to go on display in the Discovery Center.

Receive a blank quilt square along with ideas and guidelines to be included in our Earth Day Quilt.

Environmental Heroes Books To support area schools as they teach students to make the world a more beautiful place, Bok Tower Gardens is pleased to offer the loan of a 24-copy set of biographies aimed at young readers. Ideal for a range of reading levels from upper elementary to middle school, the collection can be used to address language, scientific, and social studies standards.

Research on science education processes indicates that biographies of scientists have a significant positive impact on student understanding. Even better, biographies have been shown to improve students’ perspective on the importance of effort over inborn talent.

More Opportunities Scout Progams and Home School Groups

The Gardens Book Club

Service Learning

Bok Tower Gardens is a world-class outdoor classroom. We would love to work with all Boy Scout, Girl Scout, home school and 4-H groups to provide opportunities for field trips, activities to earn badges, and other educational experiences. Let us plan a custom trip for your group!

Students set goals and receive seed packets as they meet their goals. The group meets once a month to share about the books they have enjoyed and tour a different section of the Gardens.

Opportunities include monitoring rare species or removing non‑native, invasive species.

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Earth Day 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

and

Celebrate Earth Day at Bok Tower Gardens! Students participate in hands-on activities by environmental exhibitors from around Central Florida and learn about protecting wildlife, water conservation, gardening and more. apr

One teacher wrote, “Bok Tower is a beautiful place to visit, and combined with the Earth Day Celebration it was a win-win.” An exhibitor said, “I wanted to personally write and tell you how much we enjoyed coming out. Thank you for organizing this opportunity to reach so many students.” $7 per person (one complimentary adult admission for every 5 students)

Bringing Children Closer to Nature Pause. Take a deep breath. Think back to when you played outdoors as a child. What did those moments mean to you... when you were just finding your place in the world?

jul

Discovery Days Summer Camps for Kids

thru

Discovery Days is a series of stimulating day camps for children ages 6-8 and 9-12 filled with discovery, exploration and imagination to keep young minds actively engaged and learning through the summer months. Informal, week-long sessions for each age group feature activities to help children discover the world of Bok Tower Gardens through art, science, cooking, gardening and sensory explorations. aug

In the summer of 2016, we will offer four weeklong camps including a cooking-themed camp in our new outdoor kitchen. All sessions include engaging instruction by master teachers, healthy meals, and plenty of mental exercise. Children don’t even know they’re learning—they are simply making friends and having fun while exploring the Gardens.

Coming this summer is our new 2.7-acre children’s garden. A place of hands-on fun, natural beauty and creative play. A place to discover, explore, pretend, search, climb and splash. A place to learn about plants, nature and where food comes from. Reflecting the unique spirit of Bok Tower Gardens, this garden will teach children about conservation and their vital connection to both animals and plants. There will be beautiful art, cooling water features, vibrant plantings, a boardwalk, performance stage and music area. Children will have things to climb on, under and through, as well as places to build, dig and create. Keeping children in touch with nature builds their confidence, independent spirit, and capacity for environmental stewardship. New educational programs will encourage them to grow from uncertain explorers into intrepid adventurers who are inspired to make the world better or more beautiful. Special Events & Programs 2015-16 | 22

Non-Profit U.S. Postage

PAID

Lakeland, FL Permit No. 1

Contact Us Tickets & Reservations boktowergardens.org/tickets 863.734.1222 Membership boktowergardens.org/membership 863.734.1233 Education boktowergardens.org/education 863.734.1221

Hours Open 365 Days a Year! 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. with last admission at 5 p.m.

Prices & Discounts Events and programs listed are included in Gardens admission unless noted otherwise. Members receive a 10% discount unless the event is marked with an asterisk.

Tourism Partners

Connect With Us

Bok Tower Gardens, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is supported by tax-exempt gifts and contributions and is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

CTP/10M/1015