Beginning Nov. 27 you’re invited to experience Holidays in Bloom at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Think of the Garden as a holiday destination—a perfect getaway to bring family and friends together for a magical experience in nature. Guests will find many a spot to capture a memory at the Garden, with picturesque backgrounds for family photographs. It’s the perfect time to enjoy “holiday horticulture!”
Magnolias, hollies, Turk’s Cap, and more—the natural seasonal beauty of the Garden creates a perfect opportunity for a winter experience in nature. Winter annuals including Violas, Swiss Chard, Alyssum and other cool seasonals provide a blast of color that is unique to the South. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of mistletoe here and there…and can take advantage of the moment! And, of course, the citrus shine—the Orangerie is rich with unusual and colorful tropical fruit.
In the Carriage House dramatic pieces of driftwood, carved by nature to reveal beautiful flowing lines, will be planted with colorful succulents to create natural planters. Giant ornaments twinkling above will further enhance the holiday ambiance. Huge pinecone wreaths can be found at the trailhead of the Texas Native area and throughout the Garden, with traditional red bows adorning the way finding signs and benches.
As a centerpiece of the Garden’s holiday décor, a giant Christmas Tree will stand tall in the formal gardens. This year’s Christmas tree ornaments are magnolia pods that have been painted red, resembling red velvet, along with glittery pinecones interspersed with traditional ball-shaped ornaments.
The poinsettias this season are a red variety called ‘Freedom.’ More than 350 will be placed throughout the rooms at the Conservatory. The Exhibit Room will also have white Phalaenopsis Orchids and red Guzmania Bromeliads to enhance the holiday feel in a lovely botanical way. Four dramatic Leyland Cypress will serve as botanical sentries, standing tall in ornamental containers by the Conservatory Arcade.
As part of your visit to the Garden, enjoy delicious daily lunch specials or weekend brunch in the Carriage House Bistro. (Closed Mondays.)
Don’t forget your holiday shopping—the Garden Gate Gift Shop at the Garden offers some of the best and most unique gifts around, including jewelry, books, ornaments, clothing, toys and other nature-themed gift items. Members get a discount on all items and memberships make great gifts that last all year!
While at the Garden, families can take advantage of the Big Garden Little Me exhibit, which continues through December 31, 2015. Relatively mild winter temperatures create the possibility of fun family times outdoors through much of the winter.
Create lasting memories by including a holiday nature experience with your family and friends this year at Holidays in Bloom from Nov. 27 – Dec. 31.
*Top Image: Holidays in Bloom at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Courtesy photo.
