VERO BEACH — Dust off your wings and fly away to a world of whimsy and wonder at McKee Botanical Garden’s second annual Fairy Festival on Saturday, April 14. The festival celebrates the spirit and culture of these mystical creatures that are often referred to as the “gatekeepers of the garden.”
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., fairy enthusiasts will get to participate in a variety of themed activities such as dancing around a maypole, a wishing bush, fairy manicures, decorating a fairy wand, face painting and more.
Visitors will also get to enjoy a live production of “Beauty and the Beast” by the West Puppets Traveling Marionette Puppet Theater at 11:30 a.m., as well as a performance by the Vero Beach Classical Ballet at 1:30 p.m.
One of the best-loved and most eagerly anticipated activities at the Fairy Festival is building a fairy house. Constructed of leaves, bark and other natural materials, these diminutive dwellings are designed to entice passing fairies to stop in and rest their weary wings as they travel through the garden.
Visitors can view example houses created by McKee members and volunteers, then visit the onsite “Gnome Depot” to select materials to build their own structures.
“The enthusiasm and creativity that was demonstrated by the 800+ visitors who attended last year’s Fairy Festival was astounding,” explained McKee Executive Director Christine Hobart. “We hope this year’s event will inspire even more families to explore their imaginations and immerse themselves in the spirit of the festival.”
Fairy finery is encouraged, and a parade and costume contest will be held at 1 p.m. for children age 12 and under.
The fun isn’t intended for girls alone. Boys are invited to dress as pirates and share in the celebration with pirate tattoos, games and the chance to make their own foam pirate sword.
Visitors can stop by the Pixie Boutique for an assortment of fairy accessories including wings, wands and headpieces. Additionally, fairy snacks and sweets will be available for purchase from Elizabeth’s at the Garden Café as well as Sunside Fun, which will be onsite selling their trademark snowballs and other treats.
General admission rates apply for this event.
For more information, contact us at (772) 794-0601 or www.McKeeGarden.org.
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 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.
The Garden is closed Mondays.