While many of our favorite holiday traditions have been put on hold or adapted somewhat this year, there are still plenty of places that evoke that same wonderful sense of seasonal nostalgia.
The Botanical Conservatory has a wealth of opportunities to enjoy their beautiful gardens and catch some added holiday fun. This year an international array of Christmas trees will be available for viewing, and the Conservatory describes their eclectic beauty.
“From the Polish upside-down tree to the Caribbean charamico, from the log used in the Catalonian tió de nadal to the Italian ceppo shelf, there is a world of holiday tradition associated directly or loosely with the tree. Enjoy this glimpse into some of the more unfamiliar Christmas traditions and symbolism from around the globe as you stroll through the Atrium, Garden Gallery, Showcase Garden, and beyond. The Conservatory’s own colorful, 12-foot-tall poinsettia ‘tree,’ in a sea of color and beauty, is one of this city’s annual ‘tree’ traditions.”
The exhibit will be available for visitors to enjoy beginning Saturday, Nov. 21, and running through Sunday, Jan. 3. The official holiday kickoff party will take place from 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, and will feature the tree exhibit as well as the outdoor candy cane display with a chance to visit Santa’s reindeer.
Reindeer Saturdays are also still a thing and will be open for visitors the three December Saturdays before Christmas from noon until 4 p.m.
On Thursday, Dec. 3, a special holiday concert will take place on $1 night featuring the music of Those 2 Guys in Suits & Ties, Tom Didier and Todd Frymier, bringing a swinging Rat Pack vibe to the proceedings.
For more information on all of the Conservatory events in the weeks ahead as well as information about extended holiday hours and admission prices, visit botanicalconservatory.org online.
Add Giving Tuesday to your traditions
It’s no secret that this year has been a challenging one for many of our area venues and arts organizations, not to mention the performers who love to share their talents on our many area stages.
With the holiday shopping season upon us, and days dedicated to consumerism coming in the days ahead (Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday), please try to add Giving Tuesday to your to-do list. On that day, this year on Tuesday, Dec. 1, donate to your favorite arts organization or not-for-profit to help their end-of-year bottom line.
Most donations are tax deductible and some businesses and employers offer matching donations for those who participate.
For more information, visit the websites of your favorite area organizations.
As these organizations continue to find ways to bring their works to the stage or available via live streaming, please support them in any way you can as they too recover from the year’s challenges.
