GardenFest to Spotlight Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden March 2
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The chance to explore a rare open-air “living museum” and view and purchase unique plants awaits nature lovers Saturday, March 2, during “GardenFest Key West: The Green Market Place” at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden.
The free-admission open-air event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the 5210 College Road property, acclaimed as the only frost-free subtropical moist forest and garden in the continental United States. Founded in 1936, the garden is among the oldest continuously operating attractions in Key West.
A highlight of GardenFest is the chance to discover and learn about the 15-acre habitat during docent-led guided tours. A popular stop for visitors, the garden shelters many threatened and endangered species of both flora and fauna, showcasing plant life native to South Florida, Cuba and the Caribbean.
Event attendees can browse and buy a wide variety of native perennials, trees and shrubs from the garden’s thriving native plant nursery. Orchids, flowering plants and other ornamental offerings are to be available as well.
In addition, local vendors are to showcase arts and crafts and green products. Wares on display typically include handmade and upcycled jewelry, woodcrafts, paintings, fiber hangings, found-item creations, candles, preserves and eco-friendly health and beauty products.
Attendees also can explore exhibits by conservation-focused nonprofit organizations. Live music, food and beverages, a children’s science corner, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle round out the day’s attractions.
GardenFest is an annual fundraiser for the botanical garden. Rich in biodiversity, the property features two wetland habitats, two butterfly gardens with fragrant plants, national and state champion trees, birds, unique art, musical instruments and 12 self-guided tours for nature enthusiasts to explore.
Event information: keywest.garden
The garden is acclaimed as the only frost-free subtropical moist forest and garden in the continental United States.
A wide variety of plants including bromeliads will be on display during GardenFest for viewing in the garden, with many plants available for sale.
Wares for sale typically include handmade and upcycled jewelry, woodcrafts, paintings, fiber hangings, found-item creations, candles, preserves and eco-friendly health and beauty products.
Docent-led tours are to guide visitors through the 15-acre habitat.