Pinecrest Gardens, the historic botanical jewel of South Florida, is thrilled to unveil its 2023 fall season lineup. This season, visitors can anticipate a mix of unique experiences and treasured traditions amid an enchanting backdrop including the inaugural Avian Oasis by Myth Makers and the return of Nights of Lights Festival.
“Every event we’ve curated this season showcases the magic and enchantment of Pinecrest Gardens,” said Cristina Blanco, Pinecrest Gardens’ executive director. “From awe-inspiring exhibits to festive celebrations, we invite everyone to experience what Pinecrest Gardens is all about and to make new discoveries.”
Season Highlights:
-
Sips & Shorts (Oct. 5, 6:30-9 p.m.) – An intriguing new event, featuring 10-minute short plays read by professional actors. Each month’s event presents a new theme and partnership with various local arts organizations. Includes a complimentary beverage.
-
Howl-O-Ween (Oct. 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.) – Expect tricks and treats, a costume contest, a special doggie fun zone agility course, a pumpkin patch, food, drinks and live entertainment. Four-legged ghouls and their human companions are welcome.
-
Arts for Wellness Day Family Festival (Oct. 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) – A new addition, this inclusive event will feature healing and expressive arts, music, movement, guided meditation, light therapy, vocal toning, gardening, yoga, and community resources for families with and without disabilities.
-
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Oct. 27, 6:30 p.m. gates open, 8 p.m. costume contest and movie) – Pinecrest’s iconic outdoor cinema event returns with this cult classic. Wear your costume and bring your props!
-
Family Garden Day: Growing Native (Nov. 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) – Families are invited to immerse themselves in the diverse flora and fauna that call Pinecrest Gardens home. This event features a slew of interactive activities, exhibitions, and workshops that cater to visitors of all ages and cognitive abilities.
-
Avian Oasis by Myth Makers (Nov. 18 – May 23) –Pinecrest Gardens will present six magnificent bamboo-crafted bird sculptures, each standing up to a staggering 30 feet tall. This first-time outdoor art exhibit is designed to invoke the memories of Franz Scherr’s Parrot Jungle and promises to be a captivating experience for all ages.
-
Nights of Lights Festival (Dec. 9 – Jan. 6, 6-9 p.m. Thurs.-Sun. & select Wednesdays) – With thousands of twinkling lights, Pinecrest Gardens will be transformed into a magical holiday wonderland. On select nights, activities include a pajama party, photos with Santa Claus, a seasonal gift bazaar and more, ensuring every visitor gets into the festive spirit.
Ongoing Events:
-
Botanical Garden Tours (First Saturday of every month, 10-11:30 a.m.) – Starting this season, visitors can join guided tours of the gardens, led by Pinecrest’s expert horticulture and education teams. These tours are perfect for those looking to explore and learn about the garden’s vibrant ecosystems.
-
Curious Gardener (Third Thursday of every month, 6:30 – 9 p.m.) – Unearth the secrets of gardening with this hands-on workshop for adults 21+. Each workshop is themed and includes a complimentary beverage.
Art Exhibitions:
-
Wandering Through Landscapes (Through Nov 5): Experience a curated journey that offers diverse landscape perspectives curated by Hartvest Project in collaboration with Adriana Meneses Art.
-
Senses of Belonging (Nov 19, 11:30 a.m.): A photo exhibition in collaboration with Hartvest Project and Miami’s Public Art Programs showcasing local South Florida artists.
-
Keep Fossil Fuels Underground (Through Dec. 3): Discover eco-artist Xavier Cortada’s “EPOCH” series, spotlighted on Miami-Dade County’s electric buses, emphasizing the importance of leaving prehistoric fossils untouched, promoting sustainable energy alternatives.
-
Human Nature (Through Dec 3): A collaboration of several artists highlighting the intricate relationship humans share with their environment and addressing issues like sea-level rise.
Special Concerts:
-
Candlelight Concert: Halloween Special (Oct. 28, 6 & 9 p.m.): An immersive musical evening by FeverUp. Tickets are available on feverup.com.
-
Tropical Nights Live (Nov. 17, 8-10 p.m.): Dive into a unique musical experience with “Tango Dreams” under the musical direction of Anibal Berraute at the Banyan Bowl.
-
Todo El Mundo Dice Ahó (Temda) (Nov. 18, 6 P.M.): An international music medicine festival that emphasizes the bond between art and nature preservation. Ticket info available at info@bodegacollective.com.
-
Jazz Series At Pinecrest Gardens:
-
Rebirth Brass Band (Nov. 4, 8-10 p.m.): Grammy-winning band fusing New Orleans brass with funk, jazz, and soul.
-
Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band (Dec. 9, 8-10 p.m.): Multi-award-winning jazz ensemble presents a night of classics.
In addition to offering a robust calendar of events, Pinecrest Gardens champions education. Programs such as the Little Lizards spark children’s curiosity about nature, while the Science & Art Academy developed by Xavier Cortada melds artistic and scientific exploration. For homeschooling families, the Home School Co-School seamlessly integrates structured learning within the garden’s dynamic environment, underscoring Pinecrest’s dedication to nurturing both mind and spirit.
Plus, there’s the weekly Farmer’s Market and the monthly Herpreneur initiative celebrating women entrepreneurs. A new perk, Parents Night Out, allows parents to enjoy an evening off while kids partake in garden adventures.
That’s not all! To review the full season lineup and for ticket information, visit www.pinecrestgardens.org.