November 28, 2008 – January 4, 2009
Holiday traditions continue at Franklin Park Conservatory!
Nearly one hundred poinsettia varieties and the much-loved poinsettia tree sets the stage for the annual gingerbread house competition, a model garden railway, candlelight nights, and holiday break activities for families. The Grove, one of the Conservatory’s rooftop gardens, will glow with a display of lighted evergreen varieties.
Gingerbread House Competition
Design your sweet creation and enter this year’s competition in one of four contest categories. Winning entries will be on display in the Conservatory’s lower atrium. Deadline for entries is November 28, 2008. Click here download an entry form and rules.
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 13, 8:30 a.m.
This popular day for families includes a breakfast in the Grand Atrium and a chance to meet and be photographed with Santa Claus. This event sells out early and reservations are required. Phone 614.848.4700 for information and to reserve your space. (click here for a downloadable menu)
After breakfast, take part in Family Fun SaturdayFamily Fun Saturday
Saturday, December 13, 11 a.m. for families with children age 5 and up
Celebrate the holidays and make a festive headband you can wear.
Free with admission to the Conservatory.Candlelight Nights
Wednesdays, November 26, December 3, 10, and 17
5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Hundreds of votives placed throughout the building and in the plant collections create a warm holiday ambience. Enjoy live musical performances, family activities, guided tours, and demonstrations. Soups, sandwiches, salads, flatbreads and a children’s menu are available in Cam’s Garden Café. Botanica, the Conservatory’s gift shop and greenhouse will feature holiday merchandise.
November 26
Ice carving demonstration, candle craft for children ages 4
and up, poinsettia talk/tour with plant care tips, live carolers. Special overstock clearance sale in Botanica.December 3
Holiday centerpiece demonstration, a gingerbread craft,
piano/woodwind duo performanceDecember 10
Learn about holiday plant selection and make a holiday
kissing ball; a children’s craft and a live bluegrass band.December 17
Holiday tree talk with Conservatory horticulturist, ornament craft for kids, a special visitor, and a choral performance with
a brass band.On December 3, 10 and 17 you may choose a special holiday dining experience in the Palm House on Candlelight Nights. For menu information and to make reservations (required), contact Cameron Mitchell Catering Company at 614.848.4700.
Holiday Break Programs for Families
Special programs designed for families with children ages 5 and up.
Performances and/or a craft are offered at 1 p.m. on the following days,
Free with admission; a small craft fee may apply. Craft materials available on a first come, first served basis.
November 28: Make an edible, festive holiday house
December 26: Japanese Taiko drum demonstration
December 27: An interactive mime performance
December 28: High Jinks Dance Company
December 29: Ice carving artists from Rock On Ice
December 30: Make a holiday craftCocktails at the Conservatory will continue through the holiday season on December 4, 11, and 18 from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. in the Palm House. Gather in the historic Palm House with family, friends, or colleagues after work and celebrate the holiday season in the most unique atmosphere in town. Featured cocktail and a full cash bar. Music provided by Encore Entertainment.
Holiday hours:
Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesdays until 8 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Open Monday, December 29 and New Year’s Day, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
