The eagerly awaited grand opening of the Luci and Ian Family Garden at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center will take place this Sunday, May 4 from 10 am – 7 pm. There will be a garden discovery quest, special activities throughout the day and live performances by local Austin musicians.

The garden is 4.5 acres of woodland and meadow designed to inspire children to explore nature through hands-on creative play. Every facet of the garden was designed with kids in mind- they can peel back layers of bark to discover what is underneath in the Stumpery, they can pretend to live like birds in a giant nest made of grape vines, and they can even explore a grotto with caves and a waterfall. There are more than 10 interactive and educational features to the garden, and it is the only native plant garden designed for families in Central Texas.

Named for lead donors Luci Baines Johnson, daughter of President Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson, and her husband Ian Turpin, the garden is intended to be a safe place where children can cultivate their curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion by immersing themselves in nature. Hang from trees, follow dinosaur tracks, fly kites on the lawn and get lost in a maze- sounds like a fabulous day to us!

 

Grand Opening Event Schedule:

• 11 am: Gina Chavez
• 12 pm: Big Don
• 1 pm: Storytime in the Little House
• 1 – 3 pm: Children’s book sale and book signings in the Store
• 3 pm: Hank and Shaidri Alrich (Americana songwriter)
• 4:30 pm: Wood & Wire (main act, bluegrass)

Free t-shirts for a limited number of guests! There are very few parking spots on-site. A shuttle will be running from Bowie High School. Food and beverages can be purchased from food trucks or the Wildflower Cafe.

 

Purchase discounted tickets online here. Children (ages 5 – 12) $3, Seniors & Students (ages 13 – 17) $5, and adults (18+) $7. Free toddler admission (ages 0 – 4). Regular Wildflower Center admission prices will apply if purchased in person the day of the event.

 

There will be a special member’s only preview on Saturday, May 3 with a similar activity schedule. To enjoy this special preview event, click here to become a member. OR, TAKE YOUR CHANCES AND ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FAMILY MEMBERSHIP! The center will be closed to the public on this day.

A Family Membership will get you all of the core benefits for two adults and all children under 18 living in the same household or visiting grandchildren under 18, PLUS, you’ll get free admission for two additional guests each time you visit the Wildflower Center. You’ll also get invitations to Members-Only Exhibit Openings and Special Events. Enter below!

This giveaway is now closed, congrats to our winner and thanks to everyone who entered!