INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — McKee Botanical Garden invites the community to celebrate the 2011 holiday season with two events: “Holidays at McKee” and “Nights of Lights.” Kicking-off the season will be “Holidays at McKee,” taking place Thursday, Dec.15 thru Sunday, Dec. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m.
One night only: The Vero Beach High School Orchestra will perform at “Holidays at McKee” on Friday, Dec. 16 beginning at 6 pm.
In addition to viewing festive decorations and thousands of twinkling lights displayed throughout the Garden, visitors will enjoy a number of traditional holiday activities and attractions including writing letters to Santa, visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus, Mrs. Claus’ Serendipity candy shop and a large-scale model train display.
Visit the Garden gift shop for unique gifts and take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle at Elizabeth’s at the Garden Café, where a selection of seasonal treats will be available for purchase.
Visitors also will have their first chance to view Sculpting Nature, a breathtaking collection of more than 30 large-scale sculptures created by artists worldwide. This one-of-a-kind exhibit, exploring the relationship between art and the natural world, will be showcased throughout the Garden through April 30.
Wondering what to do with out-of-town guests once the holidays are over? New this year, “Nights of Lights,” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27 thru Thursday, Dec. 29 offers a memorable Garden experience that all ages can enjoy.
Take a tranquil stroll along luminaria-lit pathways highlighted by festive lights and water displays exclusive to this event. Additionally, guests can view McKee’s large-scale train display, browse the Garden gift shop and visit Elizabeth’s at the Garden Café.
According to McKee Botanical Garden Executive Director Christine Hobart, “The holiday season is about spending time with family and friends, and many residents receive visitors from outside the local area. ‘Nights of Lights’ provides an opportunity to still experience the spirit of the holidays once they have passed in a serene tropical setting that can be found only at McKee.”
General admission applies for both of these events. For more information, visit www.mckeegarden.org or call 772-794-0601.
The mission of McKee Botanical Garden is to nurture and enhance a historic garden in a unique tropical setting for the education, enjoyment and enrichment of all.
McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US Highway 1 in Vero Beach. General admission fees are $9 adults, $8 seniors and $5 children ages 3 to 12.
Admission is free for members and children under 3. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
