APGA Annual Conference 2024: Rooted in Resilience (Boston, MA)

With a past steeped in rich history, a present dedicated to innovation, and a future shaped by strong commitments to sustainability, Boston provides a perfect backdrop to an unforgettable conference. Embrace the spirit of resilience and progress as you join like-minded individuals at the American Public Gardens Association Annual Conference.

Peak of Spring Migration Bird Walk (Boyce, VA)

We’re close to the peak of spring migration! Join Blandy Director and birding enthusiast Dr. Dave Carr to spy on neotropical migrants. We hope to see vireos, wrens, gnatcatchers, orioles, buntings, grosbeaks, and more!

Wildflower Walk at the Thompson Wildlife Management Area (Boyce, VA)

Learn to recognize our spring wildflowers in their native habitat. Scout for trilliums, orchids, and other spring wildflowers alongside Blandy’s Assistant Curator for the Native Plant Trail Jack Monsted.

Spring Wildflower Walk (Boyce, VA)

Discover Virginia’s spring wildflowers! Tour the woodland section of the

Native Plant Trail with Blandy’s Assistant Curator Jack Monsted. Scout for trilliums, bluebells, and other “spring beauties” as you learn all about the natural history of these fascinating flowers.

2024 Garden Fair at Blandy Experimental Farm (Boyce, VA)

The Garden Fair is the biggest fundraising event of the year for the Foundation of the State Arboretum, the nonprofit that supports Blandy Experimental Farm and the State Arboretum’s varied collections and public education programs. Join more than 50 vendors and thousands of other plant and nature enthusiasts from across Clarke, Frederick, Shenandoah, Warren and Loudoun Counties and far beyond, up to a 300-mile radius attend this fun event each year to purchase the best selection of native plants, annuals, perennials. herbs, trees, shrubs, garden tools and related items. Food, music, kid’s tent and educational opportunities. Event held rain or shine. Advance tickets are good for both days!

Bluegrass Under the Stars (Nashville, TN)

Summer nights invite lingering and lounging under the stars at Cheekwood, where over five magical evenings, music fills the air. During the Under the Stars Concert Series, the region’s finest players, writers and singers perform in Cheekwood’s signature lush gardens while food trucks prepare mouthwatering bites and vendors offer wines by the bottle, local brews and craft cocktails. Music lineups are as diverse as they are spectacular: Jazz, Bluegrass and Songwriters nights beckon, promising something for everyone. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a slow-down session in the summer breeze, while immersing yourself in the soundtrack of the season.

Songwriters Under the Stars (Nashville, TN)

Summer nights invite lingering and lounging under the stars at Cheekwood, where over five magical evenings, music fills the air. During the Under the Stars Concert Series, the region’s finest players, writers and singers perform in Cheekwood’s signature lush gardens while food trucks prepare mouthwatering bites and vendors offer wines by the bottle, local brews and craft cocktails. Music lineups are as diverse as they are spectacular: Jazz, Bluegrass and Songwriters nights beckon, promising something for everyone. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a slow-down session in the summer breeze, while immersing yourself in the soundtrack of the season.

Jazz Under the Stars (Nashville, TN)

The genre-defying New Orleans icons, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, headline this
extraordinary night. Their sound, self-described as a “musical gumbo,” is renowned
globally, promising an unforgettable sonic journey. Known for high-energy
performances, this group is synonymous with exhilarating shows where they combine a
dynamic fusion of upbeat brass arrangements with bebop jazz, funk, and R&B. This
freewheeling celebration kicks off with a stellar performance by the 18-piece Ryan
Middagh Jazz Orchestra. Special thanks to Jazz Under the Stars Media Partner Jazzy
88 WFSK.

TROLLS: Save the Humans (Nashville, TN)

The imaginative exhibition Trolls: Save the Humans by artist Thomas Dambo blends art,
nature, and messages of sustainability. Six giant trolls are intertwined with Cheekwood’s
unique gardens, trees, and historic landscape for a one-of-a-kind storytelling
experience. Denmark-based recycle artist Thomas Dambo brings a creative approach to
his multifaceted installations. Dambo’s vision is to create art that inspires people to have
adventures in nature and demonstrate that trash can be turned into something
beautiful. Children and adults alike will enjoy imagining each of the six featured trolls’
tales while considering their messages to humankind.

Fuss-Free Plants, Designs, and Money-Saving Tips for Savvy Gardeners (Sandwich, MA)

Join renowned gardener, speaker, and author Kerry Ann Mendez for this inspirational program that provides expert advice on designing, planting, and caring for low-maintenance, high-impact gardens.