It's a cozy feeling, looking up and seeing snow gathering on a glass roof while you're inside with poinsettias. And at the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, winter time will be full of snow, wildlife and plenty of plants, all prepared to help you enjoy the holiday season. The display begins November 21.
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Every winter, the Conservatory decorates one of its' three large display rooms to reflect the celebration traditions of a particular region or era. "A North Woods Christmas" is the theme for this year's holiday display.
A homestead cabin, birch and evergreen forest and plenty of pine and spruce will be on display, perfect for people who want to get off the beaten path and explore a little cold-weather serenity during the busy holiday season. Wildlife will also make brief appearance, so keep your camera handy for a few snapshots.
Once you've had enough snow and ice, stroll over to explore the poinsettias. The Conservatory has masses of the red and gold plants, lining the walkways, tucked into corners and piled into a handsome pyramid that's taller than most Christmas trees. Be on the lookout for unique varieties of the holiday plant, too - the swirled red and cream foliage is especially pretty.
In the desert garden room, tucked under the straight pole awning, you will find dozens of piñatas. Many of these have been created by volunteer groups, just for temporary display before being donated to different organizations.
Seeing all the creativity there is fun - candy canes, cartoon characters - you name it. If tissue paper and white glue can decorate something, it's probably been seen at the Conservatory's piñata display.
If you're interested in doing a little shopping outside of the mall, check out the gift shop, attached to the entry atrium of the Conservatory. You'll find all sorts of neat treasures there, from chunky board books and wind-up caterpillars to pretty teapots and practical gardening accessories.
When things wind up for a busy holiday season, step over to the Botanical Conservatory. It's quiet, a peaceful respite filled with flowers and snowy scenes that will refresh your spirit.
The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is located 1100 South Calhoun Street in downtown Fort Wayne.
