GardenFest to Spotlight Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden Feb. 15-16
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Nature enthusiasts can discover a rare and protected Florida Keys habitat Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15-16, during the 17th annual GardenFest Key West: The Green Market Place 2020 at the historic Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden.
GardenFest combines a plant sale, craft market and chance to explore the unique 15-acre garden at 5210 College Road. Admission is free and events are scheduled 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.
Visitors can view and purchase tropical and native plants including over 150 species of native plants in the garden’s own nursery, as well as earth-based arts and crafts with nature themes or composed of natural materials. Eco-friendly products and services, educational presentations, demonstrations and exhibits by conservation-oriented nonprofit organizations also are to be featured.
Other planned attractions include a silent auction, raffles, food, adult beverages, a children’s program and lunch at an on-site “beer garden.”
Attendees also can explore the spacious arboretum, garden, wildlife refuge and educational center either at their own pace or during free guided tours offered at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily by garden docents. The site is the only frost-free tropical moist forest garden in the continental United States.
The rich and diverse environment features two wetland habitats, two butterfly gardens with fragrant plants, national and state champion trees, seasonal flowers, birds, unique art and many threatened and endangered species among other elements. As a living museum with 12 self-guided tours, the garden offers visitors an opportunity to seemingly step back in time and experience the Keys in a natural, protected conservation habitat.
Event information: keywest.garden
