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Mums are a truly a remarkable plant. Most people think of mums as pretty round balls of color that punctuate fall or perhaps a potted florist plant that is a great gift to cheer someone up.

 

Chrysanthemums actually have an ancient and royal history. Records show that mums were first cultivated in China as far back as the 15th century BC. This cultivation was primarily for medicinal uses. The plant arrived in Japan around the 8th century AD, and was so beloved, that the Emperor adopted the flower as his official seal. The monarchy and its ruling institutions became known as the Chrysanthemum throne.

 

During the 17th century, the plant made its way into Western Europe and was promptly named by the famous Swedish botanist Karl Linnaeus, using the Greek word ‘chrysos,’ meaning gold, and ‘anthemon’ for flower. Eventually, European and American plant breeders developed all sorts of flower colors and petal sizes and shapes. We now have the modern Chrysanthemum.

 

The Chrysanthemum warrants its own society—The National Chrysanthemum Society—an active group of enthusiasts with many local chapters. In the fall, these societies hold competitions that showcase the amazing variety of bloom colors, flower size and shape. 

 

One popular flower type is the large blooming type known as the ‘football mum.’ Worn as a corsage to special football games such as homecoming, this one brings back memories for many folks here in the South. There are also trailing types of mums that can be grown on frames to create cascades and umbrella effects. These are moved from the growing areas to display gardens to showcase.

 

Mums are daylight sensitive and require a specific amount of darkness to initiate the bloom cycle. To accommodate this requirement, mum producers have dark curtain systems built into greenhouses to artificially create darkness during the long daylight periods of the year. In the South, garden mums that are growing as perennials naturally bloom in late September and October as the days get shorter.

 

The classic garden mum is a staple display plant for fall gardens. They can be purchased in pot sizes ranging from as small as 4 inches, to 1, 2, 3 and even 5 gallon sizes. Either enjoyed in the pots or planted in beds, they will bloom for up to three weeks. In the South, from USDA Zone 8 or more, they will overwinter, if planted in the ground, and can be maintained as perennials for a number of years.  Some of our favorite varieties here at the Dallas Arboretum are ‘Flamingo Pink,’ ‘Pink Frenzy,’ ‘Spicy Cheryl Orange,’ ‘Bertha White’ and ‘Kathleen Dark Red.’ If you would like to see these varieties and others blooming up close, now is the time. Over the next three weeks, our 3,000 mums will be in full bloom as part of Autumn at the Arboretum.

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WHO/WHAT:           

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s Autumn at the Arboretum festival, named one of “The Best Fall Festivals to Celebrate the Season” by MSN.com, continues with a plethora of activities, pumpkins and discounts galore until November 25, 2015. A record 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash are used throughout the garden for this fall festival. Autumn at the Arboretum is supported by Alliance Data and Texas Instruments.

 

WHEN:                      

Monday, October 19 – Sunday, October 25

 

FEATURED DAILY: 

-The nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village features four pumpkin houses created from thousands of pumpkins, gourds and squash by the talented Horticulture team. This year’s Pumpkin Village recreates an Old Texas Town including a jail created from decorative corn, a blacksmith, a post office and a general store.

-The Texan corral showcases all 52 pumpkin varieties, 16 types of squash and 6 varieties of gourds inside the Pumpkin Village.

-Cinderella’s carriage and thousands of pumpkins—artfully arranged throughout Pecan Grove—create popular photo opportunities.

-Hay Bale Maze at the Tom Thumb Pumpkin Patch provides discovery and fun for children.

-Oktoberfest Garten, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The quaint, outdoor Café on the Green serves a traditional German menu, while guests enjoy the view of beautiful, full beds of fall color. 

-Piano melodies from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. by Keith Schmorr on the Dann Talley Kinchloe Courtyard

-Bratwurst Tastings, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m, Café on the Green

-75th Anniversary Display in the DeGolyer House, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, Nov. 8

The DeGolyer House celebrates its 75th Anniversary and the preservation of its historical treasure on the Dallas Arboretum property. Completed in 1940, the hacienda-style home is a celebration of what life was like in the heyday of entertaining. Guests can visit the house and experience its journey from family home to designated landmark through historic photos and documents.

-Children’s Adventure Garden’s Colorful Canopy Lab, 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., through Nov. 18

Guests will learn how and why leaves change colors in the fall. Using chromatography, children will pull the pigments out of leaves in the Plant Lab, learning the world of colors to explore. 

 

-Children’s Adventure Garden’s Halloween Monster Molecule Mist Lab, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Oct. 24 – Nov. 1

Guests can create a putrid potion (otherwise known as dry ice), and learn how matter shifts from a solid into a gas in the Exploration Center Plant Lab.

 

 

WEEK DAYS:

-Kimberly-Clark Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. every Monday and Tuesday through Nov. 25

These days feature a petting zoo, nature crafts, face painting and Kindermusik.

 

-In the Garden with Dave, 11 a.m. on Wednesdays through Nov. 25

Join Dave Forehand, vice president of gardens, as he highlights a section of the Arboretum every Wednesday morning.

THIS WEEK, Oct. 21: Fall Roses (Rose Mary Haggar Rose Garden)

 

-C.C. Young Senior Thursdays, 9 – 11 a.m., Entry Plaza

Additional trams will be available from 9 – 11 a.m. for seniors, available in the Entry Plaza. There is also a special, senior-friendly tour at 11 a.m. on Thursdays, beginning in the Entry Plaza.

THIS WEEK, Oct. 22: Watercolor with Gaylord O’Con, Southwest Watercolor Society

Guests can learn the process of how watercolor is applied to paper in this introductory class and take home a painting of their own. 

 

-Cool Thursdays Concert, Oct. 22, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

This week features the world’s greatest 80’s tribute band, The Molly Ringwalds, sponsored by Regions Bank, Montgomery Coscia Greilich LLP and McGuire Woods LLP. Gates open at 6 p.m. Food trucks include Gandolfo’s, Texas Burrito and Cup Cakin. Dress in your best 80’s flashback attire for a chance to win prizes. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit www.dallasarboretum.org.

 

-Friday Fish Feedings, 1 p.m. on Fridays through Nov. 27

Help the Horticulture staff feed the garden’s aquatic friends every Friday in the Lay Family Garden. Be on the lookout for new koi getting ready to join others soon.

 

-Friday Pumpkin Painting, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. on Fridays through Nov. 27

Paint a pumpkin in the Pumpkin Village in Pecan Grove. First come, first served.

 

-Harvest Tea, Monday – Friday, through Nov. 25, seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join family and friends for a delicious, three-course seasonal tea service. Guests must be at least 13 years old. Advance reservations required by calling 214.515.6511 or sending an email to teas@dallasarboretum.org. 

 

-Collegiate Pumpkin Display, Through Nov. 25

Guests can take a picture with their favorite team displayed on a pumpkin.

 

-Golden Hours, Tuesday, Oct. 20, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Upcoming session on Nov. 4

The main gardens are open for special after-hours enjoyment and photography. This event is $7 for Members and $10 for non-members and is intended guests to enjoy the garden during sunset. Amateur photographers are welcome. Tickets are available at the gate and parking is included in the admission price.

 

-Free Garden Tours, 11 a.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays through Nov. 21 beginning in the Entry Plaza

 

THIS WEEKEND, October 23 – 25:

-Wild Kingdom Animal Presentation, Friday, Oct. 23, 1:30 – 2:15 p.m.

Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom pioneered the narrated nature adventure genre, which uses a knowledgeable host and field correspondents to guide viewers through close encounters with wildlife and wilderness. Guests can join Wild Kingdom host Stephanie Arne in the Arboretum’s Pecan Grove for an up close and personal look at some species that share the wild kingdom with them.

 

-Family Fun Weekend, Oct. 24 – 25

Guests can trick-or-treat through the garden with costumed characters and other family fun activities. Children and adults are encouraged to wear festive costumes. A professional photographer will be available to shoot fall family portraits from 12 – 4 p.m. in the Pumpkin Village. Professional photography is an additional cost.

 

-Children’s Adventure Garden’s Sticker Treating, Oct. 24 – 25 and Oct. 30 – 31

A twist on trick-or-treating, children are invited to discover the spooky side of nature by wearing their costumes to the Children’s Adventure Garden to explore the garden in search of the next sticker or adventure at each station.

 

-Garden Melodies, Weekends through Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Martin Rutchik Concert Lawn

 

-Live Music, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 22, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Guests can enjoy live music in Woolf Circle featuring Spanish guitar and recognizable classics. Local duo John Lefler and Camille Cortinas will perform for all audiences with folksy interpretations of classics from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

 

-Yoga for Members, Saturdays through Oct. 31, 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

 

RORY MEYERS CHILDREN’S ADVENTURE GARDEN:

Other activities this week include tadpole feedings, OmniGlobe presentations, story time, scavenger hunts, butterfly tagging, puppet shows and so much more.

 

For a complete list of Children’s Adventure Garden activities and times, visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden.

 

DISCOUNTS:

-Tom Thumb Discount, $1 off general garden admission tickets available at area Tom Thumb locations through Nov. 25 

 

-Buy One Get One Free Wednesdays, through Nov. 25

 Tickets can only be purchased onsite and are limited to one per customer.

 

-C.C. Young Senior Thursdays, through Nov. 19 on Thursdays

General admission tickets for $11 for those 65 and older along with a 20% discount at the Hoffman Family Gift Store.

THIS WEEK, Oct. 22: Watercolor with Gaylord O’Con, Southwest Watercolor Society, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Guests can learn the process of how watercolor is applied to paper in this introductory class and take home a painting of their own. 

 

State Fair Ticket Holder Discount, through Oct. 29 on Mondays – Thursdays Only

Guests can present an admission ticket stub from the 2015 State Fair of Texas and receive $2 off admission, Mondays through Thursdays.

 

Grandparent’s Discount, through Nov. 20 on Fridays

Grandparent’s receive free admission when they come with their grandchild.

 

Wednesday Lunch Specials, through Nov. 18 on Wednesdays

Guests receive 10% off lunch at Restaurant DeGolyer, not including alcohol.

 

Family Fun Weekend Discount, Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25

Fun for the whole family, adults dressed in costumes pay children’s admission prices.

 

For more information on Autumn at the Arboretum or any of the events, call 214.515.6500 or visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/seasonal-festivals-events/autumn-at-the-arboretum. 

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WHO/WHAT:           

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s Autumn at the Arboretum festival, named one of “The Best Fall Festivals to Celebrate the Season” by Country Living, continues with a plethora of activities, pumpkins and discounts galore until November 25, 2015. A record 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash are used throughout the garden for this fall festival. Autumn at the Arboretum is supported by Alliance Data and Texas Instruments.

 

WHEN:                      

Monday, October 12 – Sunday, October 18

 

FEATURED DAILY: 

-The nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village features four pumpkin houses created from thousands of pumpkins, gourds and squash by the talented Horticulture team. This year’s Pumpkin Village recreates an Old Texas Town including a jail created from decorative corn, a blacksmith, a post office and a general store.

-The Texan corral showcases all 52 pumpkin varieties, 16 types of squash and 6 varieties of gourds inside the Pumpkin Village.

-Cinderella’s carriage and thousands of pumpkins—artfully arranged throughout Pecan Grove—create popular photo opportunities.

-Hay Bale Maze at the Tom Thumb Pumpkin Patch provides discovery and fun for children.

-Oktoberfest Garten, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The quaint, outdoor Café on the Green serves a traditional German menu, while guests enjoy the view of beautiful, full beds of fall color. 

-Piano melodies from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. by Keith Schmorr on the Dann Talley Kinchloe Courtyard

-Bratwurst Tastings, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m, Café on the Green

-75th Anniversary Display in the DeGolyer House, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, Nov. 8

The DeGolyer House celebrates its 75th Anniversary and the preservation of its historical treasure on the Dallas Arboretum property. Completed in 1940, the hacienda-style home is a celebration of what life was like in the heyday of entertaining. Guests can visit the house and experience its journey from family home to designated landmark through historic photos and documents.

 

WEEK DAYS:

-Eddie Coker Concert, Monday, Oct. 12, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Children’s concerts by Eddie Coker are sponsored by DallasChild on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage & Lawn. Guests are invited to listen to live music overlooking the picturesque White Rock Lake while enjoying a picnic on the lawn. 

 

-Kimberly-Clark Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. every Monday and Tuesday through Nov. 25

These days feature a petting zoo, nature crafts, face painting and Kindermusik.

 

-In the Garden with Dave, 11 a.m. on Wednesdays through Nov. 25

Join Dave Forehand, vice president of gardens, as he highlights a section of the Arboretum every Wednesday morning.

THIS WEEK, Oct. 14: Butterfly Plants and Monarch Migration (Jonsson Color Garden)

 

-National Take Your Parents to Lunch Day, Wednesday, Oct. 14

Guests receive 10% off lunch at Restaurant DeGolyer, not including alcohol.

 

-C.C. Young Senior Thursdays, 9 – 11 a.m., Entry Plaza

Additional trams will be available from 9 – 11 a.m. for seniors, available in the Entry Plaza. There is also a special, senior-friendly tour at 11 a.m. on Thursdays, beginning in the Entry Plaza.

 

-Cool Thursdays Concert, Oct. 15, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

This week features the world’s premier Jimmy Buffet tribute band, The Landsharks, sponsored by Storage Assessments. Gates open at 6 p.m. Food trucks include Eat Jo Dawgs, Fried Pies For All and Bobaddiction. Bring the island to the lake by dressing in your best laidback tropical attire for a chance to win prizes. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit www.dallasarboretum.org.

 

-Friday Fish Feedings, 1 p.m. on Fridays through Nov. 27

Help the Horticulture staff feed the garden’s aquatic friends every Friday in the Lay Family Garden. Be on the lookout for new koi getting ready to join others soon.

 

-Friday Pumpkin Painting, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. on Fridays through Nov. 27

Paint a pumpkin in the Pumpkin Village in Pecan Grove. First come, first served.

 

-Harvest Tea, Monday – Friday, through Nov. 25, seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join family and friends for a delicious, three-course seasonal tea service. Guests must be at least 13 years old. Advance reservations required by calling 214.515.6511 or sending an email to teas@dallasarboretum.org. 

 

-Collegiate Pumpkin Display, Through Nov. 25

Guests can take a picture with their favorite team displayed on a pumpkin.

 

-Golden Hours, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Upcoming dates include, Oct. 20 and Nov. 4

The main gardens are open for special after-hours enjoyment and photography. This event is $7 for Members and $10 for non-members and is intended guests to enjoy the garden during sunset. Amateur photographers are welcome. Tickets are available at the gate and parking is included in the admission price.

 

-Free Garden Tours, 11 a.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays through Nov. 21 beginning in the Entry Plaza

 

THIS WEEKEND, October 16 - 18:

-Garden Melodies, Weekends through Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Martin Rutchik Concert Lawn

 

-Live Music, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 22, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Guests can enjoy live music in Woolf Circle featuring Spanish guitar and recognizable classics. As seen on Time.com, MTV News and Huffington Post, this weekend features Denton singer/songwriter, Joel Cross, who’s best known for his amazing combinations of acoustic, soul and blues.

 

-Yoga for Members, Saturdays through Oct. 31, 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

 

RORY MEYERS CHILDREN’S ADVENTURE GARDEN:

-Colorful Canopy Lab, 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., Oct. 13 – Nov. 18

Guests will learn how and why leaves change colors in the fall. Using chromatography, children will pull the pigments out of leaves in the Plant Lab, learning the world of colors to explore.

 

-Bastien and Bastienne, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Oct. 17

Performed by The Dallas Opera, guests will experience the magic of live opera with excerpts from Mozart’s Bastien and Bastienne in the Glade Puppet Theater.

 

Other activities this week include tadpole feedings, OmniGlobe presentations, story time, scavenger hunts, butterfly tagging, puppet shows and so much more.

 

For a complete list of Children’s Adventure Garden activities and times, visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden.

 

 

DISCOUNTS:

-Tom Thumb Discount, $1 off general garden admission tickets available at area Tom Thumb locations through Nov. 25 

 

-Buy One Get One Free Wednesdays, through Nov. 25

 Tickets can only be purchased onsite and are limited to one per customer.

 

-C.C. Young Senior Thursdays, through Nov. 19 on Thursdays

General admission tickets for $11 for those 65 and older along with a 20% discount at the Hoffman Family Gift Store.

 

State Fair Ticket Holder Discount, through Oct. 29 on Mondays – Thursdays Only

Guests can present an admission ticket stub from the 2015 State Fair of Texas and receive $2 off admission, Mondays through Thursdays.

 

Grandparent’s Discount, through Nov. 20 on Fridays

Grandparent’s receive free admission when they come with their grandchild.

 

Family and Friends of Educators Discount, through Oct. 16

Educators are invited to bring up to three guests for complimentary admission.

 

Wednesday Lunch Specials, through Nov. 18 on Wednesdays

Guests receive 10% off lunch at Restaurant DeGolyer, not including alcohol.

 

For more information on Autumn at the Arboretum or any of the events, call 214.515.6500 or visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/seasonal-festivals-events/autumn-at-the-arboretum. 

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As the weather truly begins to cool and the leaves start to change colors, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is in full swing with its Autumn at the Arboretum festival. Named one of “America’s Best Pumpkin Festivals” by Fodor’s Travel, it runs through November 25, and includes a fantastic display of beautiful seasonal flowers, pumpkins and gourds galore.  Nancy Pfrommer, Dottie Lawrence and Julie Caywood—all Arboretum volunteers—are co-chairing this season’s event.

Pfrommer and Caywood have both been volunteers at the Dallas Arboretum for three years, but this is their first year co-chairing the annual fall festival. “I have heard so many volunteers say, ‘we think of the Arboretum as our own extended garden’ and we are all so pleased to be able to share it with the community,” said Caywood.

Like her two co-chairs, this is also Lawrence’s first time to co-chair the event, but she is no stranger to the garden. “We [she and her family] discovered the Arboretum shortly after we moved to Dallas in the early ‘80s,” she said, “so I have been a supporter and member for many years. We have seen the garden grow and blossom-quite literally.” 

“Looking back over the years, I find I have many favorite memories,” added Lawrence. “Recently, we loved the Chihuly event, especially viewing the magnificent glass pieces at night. The 12 Days of Christmas in 2014 was another magical evening event. We enjoyed it on a very cold night—long johns, ski gloves and hats made it more fun somehow!”

And while the Dallas Arboretum offers a host of wonderful events year round, Autumn at the Arboretum is a special time for visitors and volunteers alike.

The highlight of the festival is the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village, which is celebrating its 10th year at the Arboretum. The Pumpkin Village is created with more than 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash—the most ever used—by the talented horticulture team.  Cinderella’s carriage will also return, along with thousands of pumpkins, a pumpkin patch, hay bales and cornstalks artfully arranged throughout Pecan Grove, creating a popular photo opportunity for visitors. Highlighting the Pumpkin Village are more than 150,000 blossoms, flourishing throughout the Arboretum, including zinnias, impatiens, salvia and coleus.

“We all volunteer during Autumn at the Arboretum in various ways,” said Caywood, who is also a Garden Guide Trainer. “Since fall is my favorite season, I love all the colors of fall and the amazing pumpkins.”

“I have many favorite moments from the Dallas Arboretum,” adds Pfrommer. “I love hearing comments from guests, and helping make their visit a memorable one, and I love participating in special events, galas and helping special projects such as this annual festival.”

In addition to the renowned pumpkin village, Autumn at the Arboretum visitors find plenty of activities in the main garden and the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, such as:

Cinderella’s carriage and thousands of pumpkins—are artfully arranged throughout Pecan Grove—for popular photo opportunities.

Hay Bale Maze at the Tom Thumb Pumpkin Patch provides discovery and fun for children.

Oktoberfest Garten from 11 a.m.-3 p.m at Café on the Green with a traditional German menu, and a view of beautiful, full beds of fall color. 

Piano melodies from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. by Keith Schmorr on the Brinegar Patio.

Garden melodies, weekends from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage and Lawn.

Live Music with Spanish Guitar, Recognizable Classics Saturdays 12 p.m.-4 p.m. & Sundays 1 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Woolf Circle.

Free Garden Tours held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. at the Entry Plaza.

Kimberly-Clark Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday and Tuesday.  For moms, grandparents, caregivers and their children, includes a petting zoo, nature art, story time, face painting and Kindermusik in the Pecan Grove.

Harvest Tea at Restaurant DeGolyer, Monday–Friday, seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Seated tea is available for guests 13 years old and older. Cost ranges from $47 to $57, and reservations are required.  To make reservations, contact 214-515-6511 or teas@dallasarboretum.org.

“Golden Hours” Photography on, October 6, 7, 13, 20 and November 4 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Back by popular demand, the main gardens are open for special after-hours enjoyment and photography. The event is intended for amateur photographers, portraits and hobbyists.

Monarch Migration Day takes place October 10 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the Moody Oasis, a rooftop garden in the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden featuring Monarch Migration Activities filled with plants that attract butterflies. A face painter is available to paint butterfly faces on children.

Columbus Day Weekend Festivities, Saturday, October 10-Sunday, October 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Guests are invited to listen to live music and participate in nature crafts and face painting in the Pecan Grove. Have a picnic on the lawn overlooking White Rock Lake!

Eddie Coker Concert, Monday, October 12, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sponsored by DallasChlild, Eddie Coker performs children’s concerts on the Martin Rutchik Concert Lawn.

Book Reading by Patricia Vermillion on Saturday, Oct. 10, 1-3p.m. , local author of Texas Chili? Oh My!, reads her festive children’s book, The Three Little Pigs – Texas style!

Family Fun Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, October 24-25, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Trick-or-Treat throughout the gardens with costumed characters and other family fun activities. Children are encouraged to wear festive costumes.

“Autumn at the Arboretum is sure to put guests in a festive mood,” said Lawrence. “We want them to see it through the eyes of the children and make happy memories. I hope every part of their visit is fun. And I hope they come back often—not only at festivals. Many people don’t realize the Arboretum is open 362 days a year, and there are beautiful things to see and memories to be made every day.”

“We want visitors to remember that there are many unique treasures they can find at the Arboretum, and I hope they realize that Dallas has a gem in their back yard,” adds Pfrommer.

For more information on Autumn at the Arboretum or any of the events, call 214.515.6500 or visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/seasonal-festivals-events/autumn-at-the-arboretum.

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The Dallas Arboretum celebrates Columbus Day weekend with a plethora of activities in the garden for guests to enjoy including the annual children’s concert with family favorite Eddie Coker on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage and Lawn, children’s activities in the Pumpkin Village and a book reading by Patricia Vermillion.

 

The annual Columbus Day Concert featuring Eddie Coker, sponsored by DallasChild, will be held on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage and Lawn on Monday, October 12 with performances at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Guests are invited to listen to live music overlooking the picturesque White Rock Lake while enjoying a picnic on the lawn.

 

A native of Highland Park and a Southern Methodist University graduate, Coker has been writing, composing and performing children’s music since 1989. He has composed for television shows such as "Barney & Friends." He will perform children's songs, including well-known favorites "The Happy One" and "The Woo Woo Song."

 

“We invite you to bring a picnic, blanket and make a full day for you and your families to enjoy the garden and this concert,” said Mary Brinegar, president and CEO of the Dallas Arboretum. “The nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village featuring this year’s Old Texas Town, hay bale maze, a Texas mosaic and many photo opportunities is also an absolute must-see.”

 

Guests are also able to take advantage of live musical performances over the holiday weekend. On Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can relax on the Martin Rutchik Concert Lawn while enjoying festive melodies to celebrate the Columbus Day weekend.

 

Other activities over Columbus Day weekend include the following:

 

Columbus Day Weekend Festivities

Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Children’s activities include special crafts, face painting and more in the Pecan Grove amongst the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village and this year’s Old Texas Town made up of thousands of pumpkins, gourds and squash.

 

Monday, October 12

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Children’s activities continue on Columbus Day in the Pecan Grove including a petting zoo, face painting and Kindermusik amongst the Pumpkin Village, where photo opportunities abound. 

 

Book Reading by Patricia Vermillion

Saturday, October 10

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Patricia Vermillion, local author of Texas Chili? Oh My!, will read her festive children’s book, The Three Little Pigs – Texas style! Meet Bluebonnet, Mockingbird and Sweet-Olive, three little armadillos, as they leave Mamadillo’s home and build their own dens out of native Texan materials.

 

Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden

Saturday & Sunday, October 10 & 11

The Children’s Adventure Garden will feature Monarch butterfly migration activities, a puppet show, butterfly tagging and multiple labs.

 

Monday, October 12

Guests can experience multiple Columbus Day themed activities including Columbus’s Cartographer presentation in the OmniGlobe Theater, The Great Exchange in the Incredible Edible Garden, La Nina, La Pinta and Santa Maria activity on the Pure Energy Island and several other labs.

 

For a complete list of Children’s Adventure Garden activities and times, visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden.

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The Dallas Arboretum’s Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden presents a plethora of fall-themed, hands-on activities and labs for the young and young at heart as a part of one of “The Best Fall Festivals to Celebrate the Season” by Country Living and MSN Travel – Autumn at the Arboretum. These activities are in addition to the festival’s nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village and surrounding displays throughout the 66-acre garden, created with more than 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash.

 

Caelie Dunn, Director of Public Programs for the Children’s Adventure Garden, said, “In addition to the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village in the main garden, we have daily activities that bring science to life through fun and educational activities.” 

 

DFW Child recognized the Arboretum as the “Best Place to Get Outdoors.” Autumn activities in the Children’s Adventure Garden include the following:

 

Monarch Madness Weeks

Destined for the warmer climates of Mexico, the monarch’s annual overwintering takes them on a 3,000 mile journey deep in the heart of Texas during the first weeks of October. Specially planted salvia, butterfly bush, lantana and gregg’s mist flower attract these regal and recognizable pollinators to the Arboretum. The Children’s Adventure Garden, a Certified Monarch Waystation, celebrates and studies the Monarchs this fall with Monarch Migration Activities.

 

Monarch Migration

Saturday, October 3 (with Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge)

Saturday, October 10 (with Texas Discovery Gardens)

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Monarch Migration activities take place on the Moody Oasis, a rooftop garden that is filled with plants that attract butterflies. Children can learn about the Monarch’s migration first hand, and a face painter will be there to paint butterflies.

 

Colorful Canopy Lab

October 13 – November 18, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Children and families can learn why leaves turn red, yellow, purple and orange in the fall. Guests will pull pigments out of leaves using chromatography in the Exploration Center Plant Lab.

 

The Dallas Opera’s Bastien and Bastienne

October 17, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.

The Dallas Opera will perform live opera excerpts from Mozart’s Bastien and Bastienne in the Children’s Adventure Garden’s Glade Puppet Theater.

 

Halloween Monster Molecule Mist Lab

October 24 – November 1, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Guests can create a putrid potion (otherwise known as dry ice), and learn how matter shifts from a solid into a gas in the Exploration Center Plant Lab.

 

Sticker Treating

Friday, and Saturday, October 30 & 31

A twist on trick-or-treating, children are invited to discover the spooky side of nature by wearing their costumes to the Children’s Adventure Garden to receive stickers.

 

For a complete list of Children’s Adventure Garden activities and times, visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden.

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The Dallas Arboretum’s tradition of serving elegant Harvest Tea for fall in the beautiful DeGolyer Estate continues this year. The formal three-course service is offered at Restaurant DeGolyer, and it is prepared and presented by Gil's Elegant Catering. Harvest Tea is served from September 21 through November 25, Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for guests ages 13 and older. Tea is not served on Thanksgiving Day as the gardens will be closed in observance of the holiday.

 

Prices for Harvest Tea range from $47-$57 and include parking as well as admission to the garden where guests can visit the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village and surrounding displays, created with more than 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash. Reservations are required and can be made online at www.dallasarboretum.org or by calling 214.515.6511. Private tea service and teas for over eight people are available upon request. For questions please email teas@dallasarboretum.org.

 

 Restaurant DeGolyer Manager Louis Mendes describes the Arboretum as “…one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in all of Dallas, probably in most of the world.”

 

The Harvest Tea menu features delectable delights inspired by the recipes of James Sparks, the executive chef at Gil's. Harvest Tea service begins with a harvest chicken consommé garnished with a cheese wafer and is followed by a second course of tea sandwiches such as turkey with orange butter, curried egg salad, creamed cucumber, chicken salad and herbed cream cheese on Belgian endive. The third course of sweet treats includes lemon tortes, amaretto brownies, mini pecan tarts and apple spice cake. The three seasonal tea options are earl grey, mango mint hibiscus and pumpkin spice. 

 

DeGolyer server Robert Nelson, affectionately known as Nelson, has been at the Arboretum for 12 years. He says, “I have certain couples, families, friends who have been coming for many years and it’s nice to see them enjoy this tradition.”

 

General Manager Mendes adds, “People who come to tea each year look forward to being served by Nelson because he makes everyone feel special. Plus, we have heard guests say our seated teas rival many high-end places around the globe. The highest compliment I have heard is that our teas are on the same level as the iconic Afternoon Tea at The Savoy Hotel in London.”

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On October 1, the Dallas Arboretum’s notable “Cool Thursdays” concert series, sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank, presents Make Me Smile, an authentic tribute to vintage Chicago. As Dallas’ only concert series overlooking the picturesque White Rock Lake on the award-winning Martin Rutchik Concert Stage & Lawn, the weather is perfect to enjoy this outdoor performance with a beautiful sunset. Tickets are still available for purchase online.

 

Make Me Smile, a tribute to the music of Chicago, focuses primarily on the band’s pre-1980 repertoire. Take a trip down memory lane as Make Me Smile performs the greatest hits of one of America’s most legendary bands.

 

Missy Whisler, Dallas Arboretum’s vice president of sales, said, “We are very excited to have Make Me Smile in the garden performing Chicago’s legendary songs as guests welcome the crisp October air. We encourage guests to participate in the weekly costume contest to win prizes. For this concert, the theme is simple: just make us smile! Wear something funny.”

 

In addition to the coolest view of White Rock Lake, attendees can bring picnics and beverages or purchase food items from food trucks including Cajun Tailgators, Bombay Street Food and Crickles Curbside. The gardens are also open to stroll through before the concert to enjoy the breathtaking displays of Autumn at the Arboretum. Running through November 25, Autumn at the Arboretum features the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village and surrounding displays with more than 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash and was named one of “America’s Best Pumpkin Festivals,” according to Fodor’s Travel.

 

The concert series continues through October. Gates open at 6 p.m., and the concerts begin at 7 p.m. Single tickets start at $10 - $27 and are available for purchase online. For group tickets of 15 or more, call 214.515.6520. On-site parking is complimentary for all concerts, and the Arboretum encourages attendees to take advantage of the close covered parking available at the new parking garage located across Garland Road from the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden with access underneath Garland Road.

 

Upcoming concerts:

 

October 8: Satisfaction – The International Rolling Stones Show

Sponsored by JHP Architecture/Urban Design

 

October 15: The Landsharks – The World’s Premier Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band

Sponsored by Storage Assessments

 

October 22: The Molly Ringwalds – The World’s Greatest 80’s Tribute Band

Sponsored by Regions Bank, Montgomery Coscia Greilich LLP and McGuire Woods LLP

 

October 29: Emerald City – Dallas’ Favorite Variety Band

Sponsored by SLALOM Consulting

 

For more information, visit www.dallasarboretum.org or call 214.515.6500.

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With the welcome change of seasons comes one of “America’s Best Pumpkin Festivals” according to Fodor’s Travel and one of the Dallas Arboretum’s most anticipated events—Autumn at the Arboretum—which opens on September 19 and continues through November 25, 2015. The garden offers many festival discounts and invites the public to take advantage of these offers to visit often and usher in fall with a great deal. Autumn at the Arboretum is supported by Alliance Data and Texas Instruments.

“Autumn at the Arboretum is the Southwest’s largest fall festival and the definite autumn experience south of New England,” said Mary Brinegar, president of the Dallas Arboretum. “With these discounts, we invite everyone to come more than once to see the nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village and surrounding displays created with a record-breaking 75,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash, take photos at one of the most photographed places in Dallas, and bring or purchase a picnic to enjoy among the chrysanthemums and marigolds.”

Many fun activities take place in the main garden and the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden during the festival. Visit www.dallasarboretum.org to see daily schedules of activities.

$1 off General Garden Admission presented by Tom Thumb:

September 19 – November 25

Tom Thumb offers $1 off general garden admission tickets during Autumn at the Arboretum. Discounted tickets are available for purchase at area Tom Thumb locations.

 

Buy One, Get One Free (BOGO) Wednesdays:

September 23 – November 25

Buy one, get one free admission. Valid for general garden admission only. Limit one per customer. Tickets can only be purchased onsite.

 

C.C. Young Senior Thursdays:

September 24 – November19

General admission tickets on these Thursdays are $11 for those 65 and older along with a 20% discount that day at the Hoffman Family Gift Store. Tickets can only be purchased onsite.

 

September 24, October 22 & November 5, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Presented by C.C. Young, these days feature special activities for the senior community.

 

State Fair Ticket Holder Discount:

September 28 – October 29 (Mondays – Thursdays Only)

Present an admission ticket stub from the 2015 State Fair of Texas and receive $2 off admission, Mondays through Thursdays.

 

Red River Shoot Out Week:

October 5 – 9

 Wear Texas or OU gear and receive $5 off general admission.

 

Family Fun Weekend Discount:

October 24 – 25

Fun for the whole family, adults dressed in costumes pay children’s admission prices.

 

Dallas Food Bank Discount:

November 2 – 6

Each can of food brought in is $1 off general admission, up to $5 off. All food will be donated to the North Texas Food Bank.  

 

Veterans Day Discount:

November 11

Any veterans, active duty and first responders with identification receive free admission on Veterans Day. Offer available only on site at the ticket booth.

 

Reduced Price Parking:

If purchased in advance online, parking is reduced to $8. 

 

Free Admission for Teachers & Educators:

Complimentary admission to the main garden and Children’s Adventure Garden is available to teachers and educators with a valid picture ID at the ticket booth. Educators can also purchase a Dallas Arboretum membership and receive a 10% discount for the first year with their valid ID.

 

Group Ticket Discount:

Guests receive a reduced price for general garden admission when 15 or more tickets are purchased in one transaction. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information regarding discounted tickets for groups 15 or larger, contact groupsales@dallasarboretum.org or 214-515-6520.

 

12 Days of Christmas at Night Exhibit, Special Discounts:

Purchase tickets to the family’s newest holiday tradition early to be sure to secure a spot to see this year’s added 500,000 lights and 12 25-feet ornately decorated gazebos throughout the garden at night. Special pricing is available for the following evenings:

November 8 – 12: $5 per ticket for children, adults and seniors

November 15 – 19: $10 per ticket for children, adults and seniors

 

Autumn at the Arboretum Sponsors:

Autumn at the Arboretum is made possible by Alliance Data and Texas Instruments.

 

Additional sponsors include:

C.C. Young (Senior Thursdays Sponsor)

Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake (Pumpkin Village Sponsor)

Tom Thumb (Pumpkin Patch Sponsor)

Kimberly-Clark (Mommy and Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays Sponsor)

Northern Trust (Pumpkin House Sponsor)

Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate (Pumpkin House Sponsor)

Macy’s (Pumpkin House Sponsor)

Mutual of Omaha Bank (Pumpkin House Sponsor)

Land Rover Dallas (Automobile Sponsor)

Experian (Cinderella’s Carriage Sponsor)

 

For more information on Autumn at the Arboretum or any of the events, call 214.515.6500 or visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/visit/seasonal-festivals-events/autumn-at-the-arboretum. 

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During Labor Day weekend, September 4 to 7, admission to the Dallas Arboretum is significantly discounted to $5 per person including admission to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Labor Day weekend tickets must be purchased at the gate in order to receive this special offer.

 

As the last days of summer are celebrated with a holiday weekend, guests can enjoy several activities along with the discounted admission to the Arboretum. In the internationally acclaimed Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, the Moody Oasis is the place to “bee” on Friday, September 5 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children and adults can explore the inner workings of a honeybee hive with Scott the Beekeeper and find answers to questions such as, “Why do honeybees make honey, and why are they so important?” 

 

Guests will also be invited to create and design a special hands-on project with the Home Depot team on Sunday, September 6 at 10 a.m. in the Children’s Adventure Garden. 

 

For a complete list of Children’s Activities and times, visit http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden.

 

The many floral displays in the main garden will include the final delicate crimson petals of the dramatic Crepe Myrtle Allee cascading down during the first weeks of September. As summer ends, bright spots of marigolds, dahlias and black-eyed susans appear throughout the garden, creating the quintessential setting for an afternoon picnic and according to Forbes Travel Guide, “The Best Ways to Do Dallas Outdoors”.  

 

Wrapping up the holiday weekend, guests are invited to the shady Pecan Grove on Monday, September 7 for special activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Activities will bring the Texas Storybook Flower Village to life, including a petting zoo, live music and a red, white and blue stroller parade with special prizes awarded.   

 

The Terrace Café will offer free popsicles on Monday, September 7. Discounted parking is also available for $8 when purchased in advance online.