May Events at the South Carolina Botanical Garden

Saturday, May 4
Hanson Nature Learning Center open house: spring flowers
By May, spring flowers are well-along. Drop by to learn about some of our fascinating and beautiful spring flowers. Take a scavenger hunt sheet and head out on a journey of discovery in the Garden. We’ll have coloring sheets and other hands-on activities for all ages.
Fee: Free
Time: noon-4 p.m.
Location: Hanson Nature Learning Center

Saturday, May 11
Moonlight & Magnolias: Enchanted Garden Gala
Join South Carolina Botanical Garden staff, volunteers, and FRIENDS on Saturday, May 11 at 6 p.m. for Moonlight & Magnolias: Enchanted Garden Gala. This year’s Gala is in celebration of the many spectacular spaces within the South Carolina Botanical Garden and will help raise funds for the continued maintenance, growth, and sustainability of the Garden. Special guest Charlie Williams appearing as renowned botanist Andre Michaux.
Cost: $75 each via the Garden website. Full-table reservations can be accommodated.

Friday, May 17
Diary of a Worm
In this program, we’ll dig deep to uncover the interesting lives of worms. Children will enjoy taking an up-close look at real worms and will learn to appreciate all that these wiggly little critters do for us. While playing a game, we’ll learn about compost and each participant will create his/her own miniature worm bin to take home. Please register at least three days in advance.
Fee: $7 per participant ($6 members & volunteers)
Time: 2-4 p.m.
Location: Hanson Nature Learning Center

Saturday, May 18
Culinary Adventure: Spanish Delights
Join local amateur chef Neil Calkin as we dive into the culinary delights of Spanish food. Construct a paella, a feast for a group, make tapas (small bites which reflect seasonal fare), and add some fruity sangria. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll make and then eat a meal that will get us dancing flamenco.
Fee: $35 ($30 members & volunteers)
Time: 4–6 p.m.
Location: Hanson Nature Learning Center

Friday May 24
Introduction to Ikebana
Join Judy Koepnick, Instructor 3rd Grade, Ikenobo School of Ikebana, to learn about ikebana, or Japanese flower arranging. Japanese flower arrangement creates harmony with line, rhythm and color, and emphasizes flowers and plants in their natural state. Ikebana uses seasonal materials that can be found in any garden, but compared to western style arranging differs in the interpretation. Bring a low wide container and clippers. All floral material will be provided.
Fee: $25 ($20 members & volunteers)
Time: 1–3 p.m.
Location: Carriage House

Saturday, May 25
A Journey Through Time & Space: Hunt Cabin, Ashtabula and the Hanover House
Compare and contrast life in the elegant home of Ashtabula in Pendleton, the Hanover House (a low country Huguenot home), and the Hunt Cabin, a farmhouse from the foothills of the Blue Ridge. Details to be announced.

Thursday May 30
Make Decorative Stepping Stones
Back by popular demand, Barbara Chapman will teach the science and artistry of making a decorative stepping stone. Play with concrete and delicate foliage to make a work of beauty for your garden. Please register at least one week in advance.
Fee: $35 ($30 members & volunteers)
Time: 10 a.m.–noon
Location: Hanson Nature Learning Center

ART GALLERY
Visit the Fuller Galleries to see a rotating collection of artwork by artisans inspired by the materials, nature and beauty of the Upstate. A portion of sales benefits the S.C. Botanical Garden. There is a permanent display of Elizabeth Belser Fuller’s extensive collection of wildflower and nature paintings.
Gallery Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Saturday and 1–5 p.m. Sunday
Admission: Free
Location: Fran Hanson Discovery Center 

GEOLOGY MUSEUM    
The Bob Campbell Geology Museum houses an impressive collection of more than 10,000 rocks, minerals, fossils, lapidary objects (carvings, gemstones) and artifacts (mining equipment, Native American tools). Educational tours are available Tuesday-Friday. Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 1–5 p.m. Sunday. Museum admission: $3 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under. Admission is free on the third weekend of every month. For more information, call 864-656-4600 or visit www.clemson.edu/public/geomuseum.

GENERAL INFORMATION
The South Carolina Botanical Garden is located on the Clemson University campus at the intersection of Highway 76 and Perimeter Road. The Garden encompasses 295 acres of display gardens, nature trails, woodlands and streams, and is open year-round from dawn to dusk, free of charge. Discovery Center and Garden Gift Shop hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1–5 p.m. Sunday.

The Garden is partially supported by the state of South Carolina via Clemson University, but relies on private funding, memberships and proceeds from educational events to support operations. Contact the Visitors Center for more information at 864-656-3405 or scbg@clemson.edu, or visit www.clemson.edu/scbg.