I’ve been stuck with an idea in my head.…has that ever happened to you? A song, a notion, something someone said? Well, there’s this one thing that has stayed with me and continues to inspire, challenge, and guide my leadership thought process, now going on close to four years at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. It’s not just the phrase, but the individual words—the charge, the call to action, the sense of possibility, and the importance of what’s emerging as our collective moment...a “mind-worm” of an idea that “sparks” and “grounds” our path forward for the next 31 years.
The moment occurred on April 20, 1995, on what was then a sunny and warm day. This larger-thanlife man stood before a crowd with a smile and a bucket hat and shared his thoughts unscripted— his passionate journey, thanking all of the people who made the moment possible—and then closed with, “.…we hope to be good stewards of the present and pass on a nice light to the future. And, that's what we're trying to do. We live in one world, we breathe the same air, we love and we hurt together. And maybe….(we) can learn to live together a little better because of this park.”
That stayed with me. This profound yet simple thought; a call, a reminder, a man seeing the future for what this institution could and should become. Causing the world to be better. This was Fred Meijer.
He was right. After 17 million visitors celebrated in August 2025, a record-breaking CHIHULY exhibition and exciting new initiatives such as the A Lasting Glow campaign, the world is a little better because of this park.
We talk about our art, culture and nature “pillars.” We continually share “excellence to the remarkable,” striving to be world-class, welcoming, joy-filled. Yet we sometimes struggle to describe how you’d categorize us. Are we a botanic garden or a display garden? Museum or outdoor sculpture park? Performance venue or amphitheater? (Which is finishing an amazing season of diverse and bespoke artistry.) Yes to all! Think about the conversation when out-of-town guests visit—hard to describe until you’ve experienced it. Our shared future is in this reality: We comfortably sit within all these spaces. Like Fred said, our goal is to make the world a little better because of this park—a place to gather, convene, learn, enjoy, make memories, welcome all—with distinct Grand Rapids spirit and hospitality.
As you see colors change for the season, enjoy a final glimpse of CHIHULY’s work, or get excited for our new fall programming slate, remember Fred’s words. Think about the light we want to pass on. About how we can make the world a little better, with new communities becoming part of our tapestry of patronage. About how, in a deeply divided time, this place joyfully brings together people from all walks of life. What a remarkable promise and hope-filled prospect!
I wake up each morning grateful for the blessings of leadership and the moment we share together: partners in stewardship, dreamers of vision, global ambassadors for the uniqueness of this park—this place at the intersection of art, culture, and nature. Or perhaps, together, The World’s Cultural Park . What a remarkable promise and gift to us all. Thanks, Fred.
Gratefully,
Charles Burke, President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
p.s. We invite you to embrace the A Lasting Glow – A Community Campaign to Preserve Wonder effort to bring Chihuly’s Chartreuse Icicle Tower into our permanent collection. Visit MeijerGardens.org/a-lasting-glow/#donate or scan the QR code to make your gift today.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Honorary Chairman
Frederik Meijer (1919–2011)
Honorary Member
Earl Holton (1934–2024)
President & CEO
Charles Burke*
Chair
Tim Liang*
Immediate Past Chair
Candace Matthews*
Directors
Amy Assenmacher
Peter Baldwin
Rosalynn Bliss*
Linda Chamberlain*
Chuck Christmas
Guillermo Cisneros
Nicole Dandridge
Duane Shields Davis
Jackie Del Raso
Paul Goulet
Mark Gurney*
Kevin Jeakle
Joe Jones
Rick Keyes*
Alison Mast*
Mary McLoughlin
Thomas Merchant*
William Padnos*
James Peacock III
JoAnne Perkins*
Daniel Persinger
Ryan Podvin
Colin Seegmiller*
Randy Thelen
Michael Toth
Hanna Tuzzolino*
Al Vanderberg
Susan VogelVanderson*
Jill Walcott*
Shannon Wilson*
Richard Winn
Trevor Wolfe
President of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation
We experience light every day. Yet CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank N.A., Powered by Wintrust invites guests to see light in an entirely new way. As you explore the exhibition, light becomes more than illumination transforming color, reshaping space, revealing how art can change the way we see the world around us.
Discover a new perspective on the work of Dale Chihuly through volunteer docent stations or daily Outdoor Walking Tours. Explore how changing daylight transforms each installation while uncovering hidden details, artistic techniques and stories behind the artwork. Gain fresh insights into Chihuly's life and creative process. Visit the Meijer Gardens website to purchase tickets and view the daily tour schedule.
LIGHT AND INNOVATION
Near The Waterfalls, Blue Polyvitro Crystals reflects Chihuly's lifelong curiosity and willingness to experiment. Although best known for his glass artwork, Chihuly continually explores new materials that expand what his art can become. Polyvitro, a lighter weight, durable plastic polymer developed by the artist, captures and transmits illumination much like glass while offering greater flexibility for creating bold, large-scale installations.
Hanging in the Loeschner Grand Atrium, adjacent to the Huizenga Grand Room, the Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier is illuminated by natural light. As light shifts throughout the day and across the seasons, the artwork offers a different experience with every visit. Guests who slow down and look closely are rewarded with subtle details, reflections and changing colors that might otherwise go unnoticed.
INSPIRATION AND TRANSFORMATION
At the exhibition’s heart is a simple idea: Curiosity can transform the ordinary to the extraordinary. Chihuly’s enduring fascination with light began with a single observation, which grew into a body of work still inspiring wonder decades later. The artist has shared the story of seeing a chandelier suspended at eye level in a restaurant in Barcelona, Spain, and wondering how he could explore the massing of color, light and space in his work. That spark of curiosity evolved into a groundbreaking body of work, during Chihuly Over Venice 30 years ago. Since then, Chihuly has continually pushed the boundaries of scale, material and environment.
Across Meijer Gardens, those ideas take on new dimensions. Chartreuse Icicle Tower, the towering installation in the Tassell–Wisner–Bottrall English Perennial Garden, recalls an inverted chandelier reaching skyward. Orange Hornet Chandelier, on the Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden, captures and refracts changing daylight from every angle. Unlike traditional chandeliers illuminated from within, these forms rely on existing light sources as they gather, reflect and transform natural light throughout the day.
A CHANGE OF SCENERY
Like the gardens, the exhibition changes throughout the day, across the seasons. Morning light reveals cool transparency, while afternoon sun intensifies color and reflection. As daylight softens into evening, works seem to glow from within despite having no internal light source. Each visit offers something new to discover inviting guests to return, reconnect, and create lasting memories through the shared experience of art , culture, and nature
Due to popular demand, CHIHULY: Radiant Forms has been extended through January 10, 2027, offering a final opportunity to experience this extraordinary exhibition during the holiday season. Showcased throughout our indoor Sculpture Galleries, the timed-ticketed exhibition features 40 years of Chihuly’s iconic works and original drawings as it reveals the inspiration behind the art. Don’t miss your last chance to experience this internationally acclaimed exhibition. Meijer Gardens members receive 10% off exhibition tickets. Learn more and reserve your timed tickets at MeijerGardens.org/Chihuly.
Investing in Culture
For many guests, the return of Dale Chihuly’s artwork to Meijer Gardens feels both exciting and familiar. Made possible through the generous support of the Jack H. Miller family, this exhibition reflects a shared commitment to bringing world-class art experiences to West Michigan. Their support builds upon a longstanding relationship among the Meijer and Miller families and Meijer Gardens—a vision first championed by
Fred and Lena Meijer and Jack H. Miller. Together, they helped establish a lasting connection between Chihuly and Meijer Gardens, creating opportunities for generations of guests to experience the beauty, inspiration, and wonder of art.
Today, that legacy continues as guests gather with family and friends to explore the intersection of art, culture, and nature, creating meaningful memories and shared experiences that strengthen our community.
Are you interested in investing in cultural experiences at Meijer Gardens? Contact our Philanthropy Department at philanthropydpt@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5258.
ENLIGHTEN Early Member Sales Announced
It’s never to soon to get excited about the ENLIGHTEN outdoor light experience! Mark your calendar: ENLIGHTEN tickets go on sale September 1 for members and September 8, 2026, for the public. Purchase for yourself or brighten the evening for another. More information to come!
Don’t miss your chance to become a Chihuly collector! Discover exhibition-inspired treasures at the DeVos–Keeler Gift Shop. Browse new merchandise featuring imagery from our exhibition along with postcards, magnets, posters, puzzles, Pendleton blankets, scarves, and a thoughtfully curated selection of books. Collectors and admirers will also find limited edition glass and prints by Chihuly in the gift shop.
STUDIO EDITION GLASS
Vibrant and dynamic, Studio Edition Glass Artwork celebrates Chihuly’s creative spirit with quintessential compositions that span his career. Each handblown Studio Edition is signed by the artist. These pieces vary slightly in size, color and shape.
FINE ART PRINTS
Chihuly's passion for the spontaneous act of drawing is captured in Fine Art Prints, which offer an intimate connection to his work in glass. Many editions feature added handwork—the application of paint to the print after it is pulled from the press. All Fine Art Prints are numbered and hand-signed by Chihuly.
A NEW WAY TO EXPLORE MEIJER GARDENS
The new Guide to Collections & Gardens offers an inspiring look at the art, nature, and beauty that define Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Filled with stunning photography and engaging information, this new book showcases our world-class sculpture collection and diverse gardens that create unforgettable experiences throughout the seasons.
Whether you're discovering a favorite sculpture or learning more about the artists represented in our collection, the guide serves as both a keepsake and a valuable resource for deepening your connection to Meijer Gardens.
Meijer Gardens members, staff and volunteers receive 10% off their purchases of all Chihuly edition artwork and merchandise, and the Guide to Collections & Gardens.
THE TOM MERCHANT & GLEN JOHNSON SCULPTURE FORUM
A Material Passion: On Collecting Sculpture & Objects
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park owes its existence to Fred Meijer’s love of collecting sculpture. This same passion for three-dimensional art continues to drive contemporary collectors, who have also chosen to build collections heavily focused on sculpture. Although living with sculpture often requires greater commitment and planning than twodimensional work, such demands are rewarded with the increased power and pleasure afforded by sculptural forms. The Sculpture Forum program, A Material Passion: On Collecting Sculpture & Objects, brings together a diverse roster of collectors who testify to the irresistible pull—and essential value—gained by collecting sculpture and other crafted objects.
TOPICS AND SPEAKERS:
This Sculpture Forum will explore the artist-collector phenomenon with Chihuly's many collections; the demanding practice of collecting outdoor sculptures; and the newfound joy of living with sculpture, among other topics.
For more information and the current list of program speakers, visit meijergardens.org/material-passion
Fred Meijer (left) with Marshall Fredericks circa 1993.
CHIHULY Programming
Youth & Family Programs
LENA MEIJER
CHILDREN’S GARDEN: OUTDOOR ARTIST STUDIO
Wednesday, August 5 and 12, 10:30 am
Included with General Admission
Explore the outdoors with an artist’s eye! Join local artists for engaging informal art experiences inspired by Chihuly’s use of color, natural forms and global influences. Get creative with everyday materials while experimenting with color, shape and texture—just like artists do
Saturdays, August 15 and September 19, 10 am–12 pm
Included with General Admission
Explore the color and energy of Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures in the Tassel–Wisner–Bottrall English Perennial Garden, then create your own temporary masterpiece with Wiki Sticks. This hands-on experience invites guests of all ages to bend, twist and layer color into sculptural designs.
Adult Classes & Workshops
Register at MeijerGardens.org/ calendar or call 616-975-3184. For cancellations, please email kpatzy@meijergardens.org or call 616-975-3184.
Cancellation Policy: Full refunds are given if we are notified by phone or email 30 days in advance of the event. A 50% refund is given if we are notified 7–29 days in advance of the event. No refunds are given for notice less than 7 days before the event.
YOGA AND CHIHULY
Sunday, August 9, 9:30–11 am | Yin Yoga Sunday, September 13, 9:30–11 am | Slow Vinyasa
$25 Members | $35 Nonmembers
Kim Stoffel, Watch Kim Flow
Begin your morning with a rejuvenating yoga flow led by Kim Stoffel of Watch Kim Flow, set within the serene beauty of the Tassel–Wisner–Bottrall English Perennial Garden. Practice surrounded by the vibrant colors and organic forms of the Chihuly sculptures—creating a truly immersive and inspiring experience. Prior to class, enjoy a guided 30-minute tour of these sculptures throughout the garden, offering a deeper appreciation of the artwork and its natural surroundings. Come prepared to move, breathe, and connect with art and nature. Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle.
SOUND BATH AND CHIHULY
Sunday, August 9, 8:30–10 am
$36 Members | $40 Nonmembers Karen Ison Watson, Cosmic Dragonfly Wellness
Begin your morning with a rejuvenating sound bath led by Karen Ison Watson, set within the serene beauty of the Tassel-Wisner-Bottrall English Perennial Garden and surrounded by the vibrant colors and organic forms of the Chihuly sculptures. After class, enjoy a guided 30-minute tour of the Chihuly installations throughout the garden. Please bring your own yoga mat, bolsters, and cushions if preferred to sitting or lying on the ground.
SEEING GLASS, COLOR AND LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Saturdays, September 12 AND 19, 1–3 pm
$81 Members | $90 Nonmembers
Erik Holladay-McCann, Holladay Photography
This two-session photography class, led by photographer Erik HolladayMcCann, invites DSLR, mirrorless, and phone photographers to explore the artistry of capturing glass—emphasizing composition, color, transparency, and form. Through guided image sharing and personalized instructor feedback, refine your vision, gain creative insight, and return to the exhibit with renewed perspective, applying new techniques to elevate your work.
FUSED GLASS WALL FLOWERS WORKSHOP
Sunday, September 13, 1–3:30 pm
$180 Members | $190 Nonmembers
Gloria Badiner, Arts & Artifacts
Glass Studio
Collaborate with Gloria Badiner in this hands-on class, to create a striking three-piece wall installation inspired by floral forms. Using an extensive selection of fusible glass materials, design and construct your own unique flower compositions. Class emphasizes essential design principles such as color harmony, spacing, visual balance and creating cohesion across multiple works. All materials are provided, allowing participants to focus fully on creativity and exploration. Pickup will be on a later date.
Autumn transforms Meijer Gardens into one of West Michigan's most colorful gathering places. As the landscape shifts into brilliant shades of crimson, amber, gold, and orange, guests are invited to experience familiar paths and garden spaces in a whole new way.
This year, the vibrant presence of Dale Chihuly’s artwork enhances the season’s colors, creating an unforgettable blend of art, culture and nature.
Inspired by the boldness, movement, and color found in Chihuly’s work, the Meijer Gardens Horticulture
team designed our autumn displays to complement the exhibition and encourage guests to experience the gardens with fresh perspectives. Together, seasonal plantings and glass sculptures create moments of discovery around every corner.
VIBRANCY, COLOR, ENERGY
Rather than designing individual garden spaces around specific sculptures, the team focused on carrying a broader sense of vibrancy, color and energy across the entire campus. Chihuly’s use of flame and fire during glassmaking became an early creative inspiration, influencing the color palette and plant selections seen within the gardens. Blue-green will
offer sharp contrast to fiery oranges, glowing yellows, and dramatic purples that echo the intensity and warmth found within the CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens outdoor exhibition.
This effort begins long before autumn. Planning for seasonal displays typically starts nearly a year in advance, with Horticulture staff gathering to discuss exhibitions, programming and the overall visitor experience. From there, teams develop concepts for their individual garden areas before refining layouts down to the square foot. Plant materials are ordered months before installation, allowing growing partners time to custom-raise selections specifically for Meijer Gardens.
COLOR AND TEXTURE
Color remains the guiding principle throughout this autumn’s display.
Returning favorites include large pumpkins and the brilliantly designed Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, filled with stunning displays of florist mums in bold seasonal hues. Visitors will also discover ornamental peppers, colorful cabbage and kale varieties, straw bales, corn shocks, and thousands of gourds and mini pumpkins, woven throughout the gardens. Thousands of gourds and carving pumpkins in various sizes, shapes, and colors help create layers of texture and abundance across campus.
APPRECIATING AUTUMN
Additional autumn highlights include special dahlia plantings in Michigan’s Farm Garden, supported through donated tubers from West Michigan Dahlia Society members in celebration of Meijer Gardens hosting the National Dahlia Show this August.
The farm also reflects the exhibition’s artistic inspiration, with Walla Walla onions grown to mirror Chihuly’s celebrated Walla Wallas series. These thoughtful details reward repeat visits, offering guests something new to notice and appreciate throughout the seasons.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
As autumn unfolds, guests are encouraged to return often and experience Meijer Gardens’ everchanging beauty. Shifting light, evolving colors, and the striking presence of Chihuly’s artwork ensure no two visits feel exactly the same. Whether exploring with family, meeting friends, or enjoying a quiet walk, each return trip offers new opportunities to connect through the shared experience of art, culture, and nature.
OCTOBER 1–31
Mums at Meijer Gardens Celebrates 29th Year
Autumn at Meijer Gardens invites guests to experience the season in new and unexpected ways. This year's Mums at Meijer Gardens exhibition transforms the campus into a vibrant celebration of color, texture and natural beauty, utilizing over 10,000 mums in both traditional and unique ways— making it Michigan’s largest public chrysanthemum display.
Warm tones of yellow, orange, and purple create immediate energy throughout the plantings and displays, while deep plum and violet hues introduce richness and dramatic contrast. Golden yellows thread through the displays like ribbons of sunlight, adding brightness and cohesion throughout the landscape. Unexpected bluegreen foliage provides a cool counterbalance, sharpening the warmer tones and giving the exhibition a fresh, contemporary edge. The result is unmistakably autumnal, yet crisp, layered and modern in its overall effect. Together, these layers of color create an experience that feels both familiar and surprising, encouraging guests to discover something new around every corner.
NEW! Autumn Weekends at Meijer Gardens
ALL OCTOBER
Our entirely new and expanded Autumn Weekends programming on Fridays , Saturdays , and Sundays adds live music , seasonal food and beverage offerings , and daytime activities that encourage guests to gather, explore, and make memories together.
Celebrate the richness of the harvest season at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where autumn weekends are filled with hands-on discovery, seasonal flavors, and opportunities to gather. Inspired by the traditions of the fall harvest, this series invites guests of all ages to explore, play and connect across the campus. You’ll find a variety of activities—for a variety of ages and activity levels!— throughout our grounds. Attend one event, all events or as many events as you like, as part of your autumn fun.
Popular Youth & Family Programming
YOUTH & FAMILY LEARNING ENGAGEMENT
Friday and Saturday, 10 am–2 pm | Sunday, 11 am–2 pm Young guests and their families are invited to experience the sights, textures and rhythms of the harvest through interactive, drop-in activities rooted in seasonal learning.
ACTIVITIES AT MICHIGAN’S FARM GARDEN
Harvest Relay (South Lawn): A lively, farm-inspired challenge celebrates the teamwork and energy of bringing in the harvest.
Little Farmers Produce Stand: Imaginative play reflects the journey from field to table.
SPECIAL FEATURE: HALLOWEE-ONES
Saturdays, October 24 and 31, 10 am–2 pm
On select Saturdays, the harvest season takes on a playful twist with family-friendly Halloween programming that balances festive fun with the warmth of autumn traditions. Dress up your kids and join the parade!
FEATURED ACTIVITIES | LENA MEIJER CHILDREN’S GARDEN
Hallowee-Ones Parade: A spirited procession takes place, from the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden to Michigan’s Farm Garden, at 11 am and 1 pm.
Not-So-Spooky Storytime: Cozy storytelling in the Log Cabin is inspired by seasonal tales.
Spook-tacular Autumn Play: Hands-on exploration celebrates autumn in the Kid-Sense Garden.
WEEKEND EXPERIENCES | ACROSS CAMPUS
GUEST ENTRY THROUGH FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS
AMPHITHEATER GATES | SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, 12–5 PM | CONCESSIONS AVAILABLE AND BOX OFFICE OPEN, 12–5 PM
THE BARN AT MICHIGAN’S FARM GARDEN
Saturday and Sunday, all day
Carved Pumpkin Display: A walk-through display showcases the creativity and tradition of pumpkin carving.
FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS AMPHITHEATER
Saturday and Sunday, 2–5 pm
Harvest Beer Garden: On the stage with live music! Enjoy a relaxed gathering space on the Frederik Meijer Gardens
Amphitheater stage. Performances from 2–4 pm create a laid-back autumn soundtrack.
DeVos Van Andel Piazza | The American Horse
Saturday and Sunday, all day
Lawn Games: Classic outdoor games invite guests to enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Michigan’s Farm Garden
Food Truck: Rotating offerings are at the farm throughout October. Picnic tables and straw bales are available for seating. Piped in music plays through speakers on the farmhouse porch.
Doehne Wildflower Meadow | Scarlatti
Saturday and Sunday, all day
Food Bike: Tempt your taste buds with rotating offerings of bites and beverages.
Plant Shows
Admission to plant shows is complimentary. Registration is not required.
National Dahlia Show
Hosted by the West Michigan Dahlia Society
August 29 and 30 | Saturday: 12–5 pm |
Sunday: 11 am–5 pm
Become inspired as you stroll through thousands of stunning blooms and a rainbow of color. Be amazed by flowers the size of dinner plates and discover the huge variety of flower forms available. View lovely floral arrangements and chat with Dahlia Society members to learn more about growing this beautiful flower. Exhibitors from around the country will be exhibiting and attending. For a complete National Dahlia Show workshop listing and descriptions—and to register— please visit: MeijerGardens.org/calendar
Fall Bonsai Show
West Michigan Bonsai Club
October 3 and 4 | Saturday 10 am–5 pm | Sunday 11 am–5 pm
See a variety of bonsai on display, from trees in early stages of training to lovely older trees. Watch bonsai artists at work and shop for bonsai trees as well as bonsai tools and supplies. For a complete Fall Bonsai Show workshop listing and descriptions—and to register—please visit: MeijerGardens.org/calendar
A Taste of Autumn
This autumn, the flavors of the season come alive with a fresh lineup of culinary experiences designed to complement the beauty of fall.
FLAVORS WITH A TWIST
New savory menu additions include our comforting awardwinning Chili, Apple Nachos, and the Apple Orchard Turkey Melt featuring smoked turkey breast, sharp cheddar, crisp apples, cider-braised onions, and honeycomb mustard served on sourdough—bringing together familiar autumn flavors with a distinctive seasonal twist, courtesy of our award-winning Culinary Arts team.
MEMORABLE LIBATIONS
Throughout autumn, guests will discover fall-inspired pastries and specialty beverages crafted to celebrate crisp days and colorful evenings. Seasonal drink offerings, including Chai Cider, Pumpkin Spice Latte and Maple Cinnamon Latte, provide warming options for those exploring the grounds during the changing season.
A featured seasonal cocktail during Autumn Weekends highlights regional partnerships and local flavor. Whether warming up with a latte during a crisp afternoon stroll or enjoying a seasonal beverage with friends, these offerings help make every visit a little more memorable.
ELEVATED OFFERINGS
As CHIHULY Open Late Nights and Autumn Weekends fill the fall calendar, extend your experience with elevated dinner offerings paired with curated beer and wine selections. Make plans now to join us in November for an all-new seated dining experience in the James & Shirley Balk Café, in partnership with Short’s Brewing Company, featuring entertainment and thoughtfully paired courses.
These delicious new seasonal culinary offerings invite you to slow down, connect, and enjoy an autumn evening surrounded by art, culture, and nature.
Interested in our Golden Hour Chrysanthemum mocktail and cocktail? Visit MeijerGardens.org/recipes or scan the QR code.
More to Enjoy, Longer!
Open Late Nights are uniquely connected to autumn. Live music performances, curated food and beverage offerings, and relaxed social spaces throughout campus encourage guests to slow down and enjoy the experience together.
OPEN LATE NIGHTS | UNTIL 9 PM
TUESDAY | August 4, 11, 18, 25
WEDNESDAY | August 19
THURSDAY | August 20, 27
FRIDAY | August 7, 14
SATURDAY | August 1, 8
SUNDAY | August 2, 9, 23, 30
OPEN LATE NIGHTS | UNTIL 8 PM
MONDAY | September 7
TUESDAY | September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
THURSDAY | September 10, 17
FRIDAY | September 11, 18, 25
SATURDAY | September 26
OPEN LATE NIGHTS | UNTIL 7 PM
TUESDAY | October 6, 13, 20
WEDNESDAY | October 14
THURSDAY | October 22, 29
With your help, Chartreuse Icicle Tower can continue welcoming, inspiring and delighting our community for decades to come. Scan the QR code to make your gift today through A Lasting Glow – A Community Campaign to Preserve Wonder.
For Lynn Brunner, Meijer Gardens membership became something much more than access to a favorite destination. Membership is a way to create lasting memories with her granddaughter, Charlotte.
“I have always loved botanical gardens, so of course it is one of my favorite places to be,” Brunner said. “But once I had a new granddaughter and the privilege of watching her each week, I found more to love.”
After joining as a member in 2024, Brunner quickly made Meijer Gardens part of her weekly routine with Charlotte. Together, they explored the pathways, gardens, sculptures and family spaces throughout the campus. Their visits became opportunities for discovery, connection and simple joys, including one favorite stop in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden.
GREATER FLEXIBILITY
“A great addition is the ice cream parlor in the children’s area,” she said. “I love that a baby cone, the perfect size for littles, is only $1. While raising kids, it was not often they got a treat like that, but I could justify it at that price!”
While Brunner loved sharing Meijer Gardens with her family, she found it difficult that her son Patrick and daughter-inlaw Olivia could not use the membership when she was out of town. When membership benefits evolved to provide greater flexibility for families, it changed everything.
“With the new change in membership, I am back and I am happily sharing the membership with them,” Brunner said. “We are making great memories with Charlotte.”
The enhanced membership opportunity allows more households to enjoy Meijer Gardens together, creating added convenience and value for members who want to share experiences across generations. For Brunner, that flexibility was the deciding factor in renewing.
“I love that Patrick and Olivia can come enjoy the gardens even if I am not in town. It brings so much more value!”
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
Brunner and her family also enjoyed experiencing the recent Dale Chihuly exhibition throughout the campus. Charlotte especially loved searching for the colorful glass installations during each visit.
“It was lovely to see, and even Charlotte was busy looking for the ‘Chihulys’ as we walked the gardens,” Brunner said.
Looking ahead, Brunner is also excited to take advantage of reciprocal membership benefits at other participating institutions another benefit she recently discovered through her Meijer Gardens membership.
For families like the Brunners, membership means more than admission. It means creating traditions, sharing meaningful experiences and building connections that will last for years to come.
Membership, Made Easier
A Meijer Gardens membership is one of the best ways to experience art, culture and nature— along with the seasonal traditions that make every visit unique. To help members make the most of their time on campus, updated membership benefits offer added flexibility, convenience and value throughout the year:
Only one named member needs to be present to use membership benefits.
MEMBER DISCOUNTS & BENEFITS
Receive a 10% discount on:
• DeVos–Keeler Gift Shop purchases.
• James & Shirley Balk Café and Mary’s Ice Cream Parlor purchases.
• Tram rides.
• Guest admission tickets.
• Classes and camps.
• Select ticketed programs.
Enjoy access to:
• Member-only events and previews.
• Exclusive member hours.
Early ticket purchasing opportunities for popular events, including:
• Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens
• ENLIGHTEN
RECIPROCAL GARDEN ADMISSION
Membership includes access to the American Horticultural Society Garden Network.
• Visit 400 gardens and conservatories nationwide at participating locations.
DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP CARDS
Access or resend your digital membership card anytime at: MeijerGardens.org/membership
Cards update automatically within 24 hours after renewal.
Why Membership Matters
Stay connected to:
• Exhibitions
• Concerts
• Classes and educational programs
• Seasonal events and experiences
Enjoy Meijer Gardens year-round, whether you're:
• Taking a morning walk.
• Visiting the Curiosity Courtyard.
• Attending a member event.
• Meeting friends for a garden visit.
Every membership helps support the mission of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and ensures future generations can enjoy our intersection of art , culture, and nature.
Creating a Place Where Everyone Belongs
At Meijer Gardens, accessibility helps ensure more families can experience the joy, beauty and connection found across our campus. Through the generosity of Roger and Jakki Vander Laan and family, our accessibility initiatives continue to expand, creating opportunities for guests of all abilities to fully engage with art, culture, and nature.
Their support helps strengthen a growing commitment to accessibility and inclusion for future generations. From sensory-friendly programming to adaptive experiences and welcoming spaces, these efforts help ensure more guests feel comfortable, supported, and able to participate fully in everything Meijer Gardens has to offer.
THOUGHTFUL SPACES
Many families find these initiatives transform a visit from something that may feel challenging into an experience that feels welcoming and enjoyable. For Alyssa Ryers-Richardson, those efforts have made a profound difference for
her family. Her son, who is autistic, has found comfort and joy through events like our Sensory-Friendly Hours during the Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition, which provide a calmer, more supportive environment designed for guests with sensory sensitivities. The quieter atmosphere and thoughtful accommodations have created a place where her family can explore and enjoy Meijer Gardens together, with confidence and ease.
“Having a place where my son feels safe, comfortable and genuinely welcomed means everything,” Alyssa shared.
“It allows our family to experience and enjoy things together in a way that feels joyful, rather than stressful.”
Meijer Gardens Means Belonging
What does it mean to be part of the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park community? It means belonging to a place where art, culture, and nature bring people together, fostering joy, discovery, and a welcoming spirit for all.
A SENSE OF CONNECTION
Programs such as Sensory-Friendly Hours reflect Meijer Gardens' commitment to welcoming all people from all places. Through the support of philanthropic leaders like the Vander Laans, accessibility initiatives continue to grow and blossom, helping more families create meaningful memories together and ensuring every guest has opportunities to experience a sense of belonging, discovery, and connection.
MeijerGardens.org/give
Your support ensures we will continue to offer extraordinary experiences, breathtaking art, and vibrant gardens for generations to come.
A Place for Kids to Learn, Play and Explore
As students and families return to school this fall, the Curiosity Courtyard: A Garden Discovery Experience, sponsored by PNC Bank, continues to inspire learning through exploration, creativity, and play at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Designed for young learners and their caregivers, the interactive space encourages children to discover the natural world through hands-on experiences that spark imagination and curiosity.
Support from PNC Bank reflects a shared commitment to education and lifelong learning, helping make engaging, accessible educational opportunities possible for families across West Michigan. Through this partnership, Meijer Gardens continues to cultivate meaningful experiences that connect children with art, culture, and nature while fostering creativity, discovery, and joyful learning both inside and outside the classroom.
A Companion for Mad Mom
BIG GIRL PLAYGROUND WELCOMES AUTUMN
Guests
visiting
the Lena
Meijer Children's Garden
will discover an exciting new addition near one of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park's most beloved artworks.
Big Girl Playground, by internationally recognized artist Tom Otterness, has officially joined the collection, creating a playful companion to the iconic Mad Mom located nearby—offering families another opportunity to explore, imagine, and connect through art. Otterness’ varied public commissions include other thematic playground sculptures designed to be climbed and entered as a form of “anthropomorphic architecture.” Big Girl Playground is one such work that invites children to become part of the sculpture through interaction and play.
The opportunity to acquire this sculpture came
unexpectedly. Meijer Gardens was contacted by Otterness’ team after the original Big Girl Playground in Yonkers, New York, faced removal during a redevelopment project. A small team from Meijer Gardens traveled to visit the site and quickly fell in love with the sculpture and its whimsical spirit. From the beginning, it felt like a natural fit: close to Mad Mom and within the joyful energy of the Children’s Garden.
Ultimately, neighbors near the original installation rallied to preserve the first Big Girl Playground in its longtime home. As Meijer Gardens continued developing plans for the Children’s Garden renovation, Otterness generously offered to have a new version cast specifically for Meijer Gardens from its original 2011 design, making ours 1 of 3 editions.
Surrounding Big Girl Playground is a newly reimagined garden space, designed for exploration and discovery. Conceived with families in mind, the space encourages children and caregivers to explore together, discover something unexpected, and experience the joy of outdoor play surrounded by art and nature. Hundreds of new plantings create
layers of seasonal beauty, from the first buds of spring through the final leaves of autumn. New seating areas, shade elements, and interactive family spaces invite guests to linger, play, and reconnect. Along the way, visitors will discover hidden surprises woven throughout the landscape. Look for them all!
Behind the scenes, infrastructure improvements—including upgraded technology systems—will help support future programming, events, and guest experiences throughout the Children's Garden. And no visit is complete without stopping at Mary’s Ice Cream Parlor—open year-round!
These updates represent just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Lena Meijer Children's Garden. As renovation efforts continue, Meijer Gardens remains committed to creating spaces where children can explore, families can connect, and guests of all ages can discover wonder. Phase 2 begins this autumn, along with the renovation and reconstruction of the adjacent Frey Boardwalk, with reopening anticipated in 2027.
Immersed in Meijer Gardens
Longtime supporter Candace Matthews was delighted when her young granddaughter turned love of Meijer Gardens into a diorama, for a Grand Rapids Public Museum Immerse program involving local history. “Rosalyn is obsessed with Meijer Gardens!” noted Candace. “She made her own diorama with her own sculptures."
For my project, I made .… a diorama of Frederik Meijer Gardens. My project is about …. the different gardens and sculptures that are at Frederik Meijer Gardens. This is important to Grand Rapids because .… people come from all over to see the gardens and learn about different plants. They also come to see the sculptures and learn about the famous artists. This helped shape Grand Rapids because …. how many people come to Grand Rapids to visit the gardens who might not come to the city otherwise. —Rosalyn, 8, third grade
Farewell to a Friendly Face
Ian Warnock’s impact on Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is woven into the very fabric of this place.
For nearly 30 years, Ian brought steady leadership, deep expertise, and unwavering care to every project, every garden, and every person fortunate to work alongside him. His influence is seen in the beauty and growth of Meijer Gardens and in the culture of teamwork, trust, and dedication he helped cultivate over three decades.
More than a colleague, Ian— who retired as Senior Lead Horticulturist—has been a loyal friend, mentor, and constant presence whose warmth, humor, and commitment made this institution stronger, year after year. He leaves us a remarkable legacy rooted in the relationships he built and the countless lives he touched along the way.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Ian for his extraordinary service to Meijer Gardens and for the lasting impact he has had on staff, volunteers, members, and guests alike. His legacy will continue to flourish in the gardens he helped shape and in the countless memories created here. We wish him every joy in the years ahead.
Indoor Exhibition Extended Through January 10, 2027
The DeVos-Keeler Gift Shop, James & Shirley Balk Café and Peter M. Wege Library open at regular hours. Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Mondays in January and February. Hours may change seasonally or during special exhibitions. Visit MeijerGardens.org for details. Meijer Gardens receives funding from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
MeijerGardens.org hello@meijergardens.org @MeijerGardens P 616-957-1580 #MeijerGardens TF 888-957-1580 where we all grow™ We value your input! Respond to our content or submit your own to hello@meijergardens.org. Seasons is produced quarterly and mailed to Meijer Gardens members. If you prefer to receive your copy digitally, contact Membership at 616-977-7689 or membership@meijergardens.org. Meijer Gardens is a proud member of Museums for All. Show your EBT/WIC card for a reduced admission of $2 per person for up to four people.
