June Programs Kick Off Summer at Fernwood

Along with the seasonal beauty of the gardens and natural areas, Fernwood has an exciting lineup of youth camps, programs, classes, and events this summer.

The garden just wrapped up their first of three youth camp sessions. The next, called “Habitat Heroes,” is scheduled for July, followed by “Art and Mindfulness in Nature” in August. Summer day camps are generously supported by a grant from the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation. Learn more and register at fernwoodbotanical.org/fernwoodcamps.

Fernwood is excited to celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday, June 15 with guided tours highlighting the flora, fauna, and natural features of the nature preserve. This program offers a wonderful way to honor all father figures and complements the Father’s Day café specials prepared by the Grateful Pie Company at Fernwood!

June 17 - 22 marks National Pollinator Week, and visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a community science project or engage in a fun pollinator activity. A drop-in station will be available during open hours, with guided activities offered from 1 to 2 pm.

Everyone is invited to an exciting and exclusive dining experience at Granor Farm in Three Oaks on Thursday, June 19, featuring a delicious fundraiser to support the work at the garden. The evening begins with drinks and a conversation featuring Fernwood's new Executive Director, Mary Krinock, and Director of Education, Michelle McCoskey. They will discuss Fernwood's environmental education and nature-based programming, making the organization a vital part of the community. Immediately following the talk, a multi-course dinner showcasing crops grown by Granor and inspired by Fernwood's edible landscape will be served in the Greenhouse. Dinner includes
Granor wine pairings, with non-alcoholic beverages also available. At the end of the online booking process, a $150 donation to Fernwood will be automatically added to the ticket price. 

A Summer Solstice Celebration will feature activities throughout the garden on Friday, June 20, from 1 to 4 pm. Enjoy a range of solar-themed activities for all ages, including sampling herbal sun teas, making a suncatcher, experimenting with sun prints, learning about sun-loving plants, and more!

The Fernwood Summer Concert Series returns on Saturday, June 28, from 6 to 8 pm, featuring the Redbud Ramblers, an upbeat acoustic string band of local musicians performing a blend of folk, bluegrass, and Americana music. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door.

Register online for programs at fernwoodbotanical.org or call 269.695.6491. A list of additional upcoming events and programs can be viewed at fernwoodbotanical.org/calendar.