Upcoming Events
The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is a place for lifelong learning. Our programming includes speakers, presentations, demonstrations, “make & take” classes, and so much more! We are always adding new events to the calendar. Please check back often!
Most programs, classes, and events at The Botanic Garden are discounted for members. Not a member yet? Join online here!
Registration for our programs through Eventbrite is easy. Your reservation will be available from your email confirmation or order history –there is no need to print your ticket. For free events, registering via Eventbrite helps us plan for your attendance.
Saturday, May 9th, 2026 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Free Family Fun: Make & Take Citronella Plants
Join us for a hands-on workshop for children learning how to propagate new plants from cuttings. Appropriate for children ages 5-10 years old.
Join Janet Hickman and her grandson Leo as they share and demonstrate how to start new plants from cuttings. Children will learn some basic botany in the process while they have fun preparing their own potted Citronella cuttings to take home. This would make a great gift for Mom or Grandmother for Mothers’ Day.
There is no charge for the event. Participation will be limited to 20 registered children and parents are welcome to observe/assist. If you have registered and can no longer attend, please send a note to meredith@thebotanicgarden.org and let others attend in your place.
Sponsored by the Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City in partnership with the Botanic Gardens for the Children’s Sensory Garden.
Russ Mawby Signature Service Project
Each year, the Regional Russ Mawby Signature Service Projects bring hundreds of AmeriCorps volunteers to communities across Michigan for a day of intensive service.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026: 6:30-8:30pm
Wine and Weeding
Join us for an exciting new look at our garden weeds!
Brush off your trowel…it’s time for spring cleaning and we all know the trials and tribulations of trying to keep our gardens “weed free.” Get tips on how best to tackle weeds and hold back invasive species in your landscape with a number of different approaches. Jump into the garden for a hands-on experience where we will examine different techniques and how to properly identify common weeds.
The evening convenes with a bon voyage toast to dandelions, peppercress, and a few other edibles as we sample a few of these foraged flavors with a local wine pairing.
Friday, May 29th, 2026: 5:00pm-7:00pm
Fairy Home Workshop
Foraged Fairy Home Workshop
The Fairy Forest at The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park has captivated our community for years. Have you ever wanted to add to the magic by building your own fairy house, dwarf domicile, or gnome home? In this interactive workshop, Matthew Ross the Executive Director of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park will lead participants in the development of these magical structures with materials foraged from the grounds of The Botanic Garden and a few additional whimsical elements.
Participants will go home with their very own structure and are encouraged to bring them back to The Botanic Garden on June 7th as we celebrate the Fairy Festival! Houses worked on during the workshop do not have to fit this year’s theme, but are encouraged to do so for the Fairy Fest!
This year’s Fun Fairy House Competition invites you to imagine Crafted by Hand: Celebrating the Arts and Cultures of America!
All materials will be provided. Workshop cost of $10 for supplies.
Sunday, June 7th, 2026: 12:00pm-4:00pm
Celebrating the Arts and Cultures of America: A Fairy House Competition
• Kids can make their own fairy wand
• Guests are welcome to enjoy lemonade and a sweet treat in the pavilion!
• Take a photo at our photo booth station in the Pavilion
• Tour the other gardens
Crafted by Hand: Celebrating the Arts & Cultures of America