Wow! This past year our garden has really grown.
We have added new and exciting festivals. We have launched a performing arts venue with a season line-up that includes theater, music and dance in our newly renovated Banyan Bowl. We have turned the Hibiscus Room into a full-time fabulous art gallery featuring a new exhibit every month. We have welcomed into our fold the CLEO Institute, founded by educator and environmental activist Caroline Lewis, who has taken on a global initiative of engaging people in the topic of climate change.
Our 14-plus acres are more lush and beautiful than ever, and on Oct. 17 the National Park Service announced the addition of Pinecrest Gardens to the National Register of Historic Places. The designation of the “Parrot Jungle Historic District” recognizes the historic significance of this incredible property that was once home to a world-famous tourist attraction.
It is our intent to renew this commitment to becoming a world-class attraction, offering our local community and beyond a cultural haven; a gathering place for families to enjoy, to celebrate, to laugh, to learn and to be entertained.
So, what’s up at the Gardens during the first two weeks in January? A lot!
FINE ARTS FESTIVAL
Jan. 14-15, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Come to one of Florida’s premiere juried art shows and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by spectacular visual arts in the most lush and luxurious setting now in its ninth year. Amongst a generous representation of the best artists and artisans in this area and beyond—you will find the perfect piece of art for your home, original jewelry for yourself or significant other, a great selection of delicious food, live music, and other activities for the entire family.
FARMERS MARKET
Open Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Grab your trusty straw tote because Bee Heaven Farms is back selling the very best in locally grown produce. But don’t stop there. The Market now boasts more than 60 vendors featuring fresh produce, locally farmed honey, fresh made pasta, arts and crafts and so much more. GARDENS GALLERY Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Our next exhibit opens Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. when the gallery will feature CCT-ART. CCT was founded by two mothers, all parenting special needs children, and a group of therapists whose concern and challenges led to a desire to offer their children creative stimulation while caring for their personal needs. Creative Children Therapy, through their Artists Realization Technology Program, continues to help children with special needs and profound disabilities put their inner-most thoughts on to canvas.
HONORING OUR FOUNDERS
In 2003, when the Gardens was purchased by the Village, there was a fundraising initiative dubbed our Founders Tree. By purchasing a leaf on this tree, one’s name would be etched, forever recognizing that name as a founding member in Gardens’ history. This year we have renovated our tree, and on Jan. 7 we will honor our founding members in a special ceremony as we officially launch our new membership drive for 2012.
BENEFIT CONCERT
The Community Foundation of Pinecrest, a non-profit organization, will present a Concert under the Stars featuring renowned jazz vocalist Nicole Henry on Saturday, Jan. 7, at 8 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Gardens’ performing arts initiatives and the Banyan Bowl. A wine and cheese reception at 7 p.m. precedes the concert. Tickets are $42 (includes reception) and may be purchased online at www.pinecrestgardens.org.
EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
• The CLEO Institute amplifies civic engagement on environmental issues by bringing together scientists, educators, private and public sector leaders, and young people. You are invited to a community-wide film screening and discussion of the documentary Carbon Nation on Friday, Jan. 13, 7-9:30 p.m., with a follow-up discussion led by Caroline Lewis and her Youth Task Force leaders.
• Join us on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. for a special presentation on Basic Bonsai Techniques and Care in our Hibiscus Room. This wonderful lecture and workshop is free to the public.
TOUR THE GARDEN
Every Sunday at 11 a. m. and 1 p.m. we have scheduled tours given by our volunteers. These tours are free with an admission of $3 for adults and $2 for children.
For more information, visit www.pinecrestgardens.org, Facebook or call 305-669-6990.
