KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Pennsylvania’s iconic Longwood Gardens is set to transform into a magical oasis of color and tranquility this winter. From January 20 to March 24, 2024, the Winter Wonder event will offer visitors an enchanting blend of indoor beauty and outdoor serenity, coupled with educational opportunities and captivating performances.
Indoor Horticultural Wonders
The grand Conservatory, spanning nearly two acres, will house a plethora of blooming plants from around the globe. Visitors can marvel at the ethereal Streptocarpus ‘Concord Blue’ hanging baskets, the intriguing Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Dowon,’ and the cascading blooms of Clerodendrum schmidtii, also known as chains-of-glory.
The Orchid House is a must-visit, displaying nearly 300 lively orchids, with new varieties introduced each week. From January to March, the Conservatory will also be home to fragrant Orange Jasmine and starbursts of Clerodendrum quadriculare. In March, the graceful Echium candicans ‘Select Blue’ will make its return, and Longwood’s famous blue-poppy will showcase its mesmerizing blue petals.
Outdoor Tranquility
The Winter Wonder season offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the subtle charm of winter outdoors. The landscape transforms into a canvas of muted hues, inviting visitors to wander through the serene Hillside Garden or absorb the copper and umber tones of the expansive 86-acre Meadow Garden.
Informative Talks and Classes
Longwood is not just about visual delights; it’s also a hub for learning. Free talks and lectures will delve into various topics like innovative greenhouse technologies and global horticultural research. These sessions are designed to enhance visitors’ understanding of the science and research that contribute to Longwood’s status as a world-renowned garden.
For those keen to improve their gardening skills, Longwood will offer classes and workshops throughout the winter. Topics include citrus tree cultivation, creating Valentine floral arrangements, and starting a vegetable garden.
New Floral Features
This season, Longwood introduces Floral Features, exquisite cut flower designs created by the garden’s in-house team. These unique displays, each featuring a different plant palette, will be exhibited for a limited time at various locations within the gardens.
Winter Wonder at Longwood Gardens promises to be a feast for the senses, combining natural beauty, horticultural expertise, and educational insights. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply looking for a tranquil escape, this event offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of nature in winter.
Savor the Sound of Winter
Immerse yourself in the acoustic wonder of Longwood Gardens’ Conservatory, an enchanting stage for live music performances this winter. Thier lineup features a diverse mix of classical, jazz, and organ artists, promising a melodious escape for music enthusiasts. Noteworthy acts include the talented Nicole Keller on February 9, and the captivating Martha Redbone Roots Project on March 14. Tickets are limited and include all-day access to the stunning gardens.
Join Longwood Gardens for Winter Wonder, running from January 20 to March 24, 2024. We’re open daily, except Tuesdays, from 9 am to 5 pm. Entry is $25 for adults, $22 for seniors (62+), $13 for students (ages 5–18 or with valid ID), and complimentary for kids aged 4 and under. Group rates are also available.
For more information, visit longwoodgardens.org.
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