This Week at Phipps: Nov. 17 – 23

By Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

There's always something new to see and do at Phipps! This weekly blog post provides a run-down of the latest happenings so you can plan your visit. Events listed below require no advance registration unless noted otherwise. 

Open Daily: 

• NOW OPEN: Phipps Holiday Magic 
  This year’s playful theme, “Wild Winter,” invites you into a wonderland of whimsical topiary wildlife and enchanting scenes at every turn. Step inside and prepare to be dazzled by breathtaking new displays, brilliant décor and our signature floral masterpieces. From vibrant amaryllis and delicate orchids to a spectacular showcase of poinsettias, every bloom is a burst of seasonal joy. And the magic doesn’t stop at there! Outside, our beloved Winter Light Garden transforms the night with radiant displays in vivid, glowing hues — a dazzling spectacle sure to delight guests of every age.
• Garden Railroad: The Age of Dinosaurs
  Garden Railroad: The Age of Dinosaurs will highlight each distinct period of the Mesozoic Era. Guests can watch a group of dinosaurs moving through greenery while listening to the powerful sound of a dinosaur roar! In addition to these features, the plant evolution through the different time periods will be on display, from ferns, cycads and conifers to the first flowering plants. Each prehistoric period will have its own train to follow along so you can learn about their unique characteristics. 
• Tropical Forest Panama: Bridge to Biodiversity
  Embark on a spectacular journey through the lush vegetation and vibrant culture of Panama, the incredibly biodiverse land bridge connecting North and South America, in our immersive new Tropical Forest Conservatory exhibit
• Native Plants of Southwestern Pennsylvania and Their Bird Associates and Pollinators
  In Phipps' Garden Center, plant lovers of all ages can now enjoy stunning illustrations of native plants and their pollinators symbiotic relationships. 
• Planets Earth Virtual Exhibit
  A dynamic exhibit at the Center for Sustainable Landscapes (and now online) addresses the pressing environmental issues of our time and proposes a new way of thinking about how to solve them.

Mon., Nov. 17:

• Sensory Inclusive Time | 5:30 – 7 p.m.
  Join us for a self-guided visit to the Conservatory to enjoy Phipps Holiday Magic. To ensure a peaceful walk through the Conservatory, lights and sounds will be minimized. Participants will receive a social story via email detailing the experience prior to arrival.

Tues., Nov. 18:

• Houseplants 101: Cacti & Succulents | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
  Explore the many mysteries surrounding plants from the succulent and cacti family! In this class, learn all about how to get succulents to live long, healthy lives inside your home even during the coldest and darkest times of the year. This course will include looking at plant varieties, discussing what type of succulent is best for your home, understanding the specific needs of the plants and potential propagation techniques.

Wed., Nov. 19: 

• In-Person Story Time | 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
  Kids will love visiting Phipps to listen to our storyteller weave tales about gardens, fruits, vegetables, animals and other fun topics. Attend weekly sessions with a special child in your life.
• Nature Talks: Little Brown Bird Screening and Discussion | 7 p.m.
  In this session, join us for a screening of The Little Brown Bird, a collaborative film between WildPath and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, that explores the plight of the critically imperiled Florida Grasshopper Sparrow. Following the film, join director KT Bryden for a discussion about the intersection of land, people and empathy in the preservation of species.

Fri., Nov. 21:

• An Enchanted Winter's Eve | 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
  Join us for an unforgettable evening that blends cherished tradition with new enchantment — and together, we’ll raise our glasses to the promise of a greener, brighter future for our region and Phipps, all under the spell of An Enchanted Winter’s Eve.
   

Photos  © Paul g. Wiegman