September 2023 Adult Programming
Fall is on its way, and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has some exciting fall-themed programming in September. From charcuterie to wood burning, you won’t want to miss out.
Bonsai for Beginners | Saturday, September 2 and 9, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Discover the ancient Japanese art of bonsai, learn its fascinating history, how to care for these unique specimens, and how to wire and shape them into living sculptures. The class fee includes a starter bonsai plant. This is a two-part class. Registration includes both sessions.
FULL
Acrylic Painting Workshop | Tuesday, September 5, 5:30-7 p.m.
Explore the versatile medium of acrylic paint with Kelsey Wilson. Learn about the different brushes and techniques used to create beautiful works of art with nature as your muse. Choose a plant or flower in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to bring it to life with your new skills! Registration required.
Wood Burning 101 | Thursday September 7, 5:30-7 p.m.
Wood burning offers a variety of options to create, decorate, and explore your artistic side! Learn from Mallory Joan the art of burning a design onto wood such as the equipment, techniques, and what medium to burn. Then, decorate a wooden planter to take home and enjoy! Registration required.
History of Tea | Tuesday, September 12, 5:30-7 p.m.
Step into the captivating world of tea at our enchanting History of Tea program, nestled within the serene setting of our breathtaking Botanical Garden. Delve into the centuries-old tale of this aromatic elixir as it intertwines with human culture, trade, and exploration. Guided by Botanical Garden staff and Red Dragon Herbs & Teas, you’ll savor a hands-on experience as you explore traditional brewing techniques and learn to distinguish nuanced flavors through a flight of tea representing countries around the world. Engage in lively discussions on tea’s influence on historical events, social customs, and even revolutions. Registration required.
Members $34 Nonmembers $40
Register
Dance in the Garden | Thursday, September 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Join the Botanical Garden and Mambo Soul Dance Company to learn how to salsa!! Whether you’re a beginner or expert dancer, this class is perfect for you. After learning this new dance, bring your dance moves to Music in the Garden with complimentary admission.
FULL
Charcuterie 101 | Thursday, September 14, 5:30-7 p.m.
Join us for a fun, tasty workshop, led by Boards by Heidi, to learn the tips and tricks to make your own beautiful charcuterie boards! All ingredients and materials will be provided for everyone’s board including samples of wine to enjoy while arranging your charcuterie board. We will cut, style, and arrange the cheese, meats, and accompaniments on the charcuterie board. Enjoy complimentary admission to Music in the Garden after the class!
Canceled
The Ray Way: Sip and Stroll | Friday, September 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m. or 7-8 p.m.
Celebrate the season and Asian culture and heritage with a glass of wine and walk through the Robert D. Ray Asian Garden. Learn what’s in bloom and what is coming from Botanical Garden Director of Horticulture Aaron Harpold. All participants must be at least 21 years of age.
Members $17 Nonmembers $20
Register
Fall Gardening | Tuesday, September 19, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Cooler weather doesn’t have to mark the end of the growing season. There are many ways to extend the pleasure of gardening into autumn. Learn about the best plants for fall flowers and color, as well as important maintenance tips that will give you a head start on a successful garden come spring. Registration required.
Members $17 Nonmembers $20
Register
Tropical Terrariums | Wednesday, September 20, 5:30-7 p.m.
Combine plants, science, and design to create miniature worlds. Learn how to design and care for terrariums, then build your own. All materials are provided, just bring your creativity! Registration required.
Members $34 Nonmembers $40
Register
Houseplants 201 | Thursday, September 21, 5:30-7 p.m.
Do your snake plant and pothos have you ready to flex your plant parent muscles? Take a tour of the conservatory with Botanical Garden staff and see next-level houseplants to add to your growing collection. The tour highlights the natural growth habits of several popular indoor plants. Then learn helpful tips from horticultural staff about how to keep your houseplants healthy and pot one up to take home and enjoy. Registration required.
This program is canceled.
Sip and Stroll | Tuesday, September 26, 5:30-6:30 or 7-8 p.m.
Celebrate the season with a glass of wine and a walk through the Botanical Garden. Learn about what is in bloom, what is coming soon, and timely updates from our director of horticulture, Aaron Harpold. All participants must be at least 21 years of age.
Flower Happy Hour | Thursday, September 28, 5:45-6:45 p.m.
Grab your friends, grab a beverage, and learn how to design a stunning floral arrangement built around seasonal blooms! All materials are provided. All participants must be 21 or older. Registration required.
Members $25.50 Nonmembers $30
Register
Dance in the Garden | Thursday, September 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Join us and Des Moines Ballroom for the last Dance in the Garden of the season! Learn the West Coast Swing as a beginner or expert dancer. Then bring your dance moves to Music in the Garden to dance during The Feel Right’s performance.
FULL
