A quiet promise …. I’ve wrestled with whether to write this letter at all, but I think it’s important to share. It’s not about asking for anything. It’s not about boasting or being prideful. It’s about quietly sharing our moments of hope, respect and hard work.
We’ve talked before about living into the ethos of Fred and Lena—the spirit of being world-class, of bringing joy to every aspect of this institution, and, in some ways most importantly, being a place that welcomes all.
In this season of March Madness, I’m reminded of a line often attributed to UCLA basketball coach John Wooden: “The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching.”
That’s really what I’d like to share with you—the integrity, the character, the quiet promise that lives here every day at Meijer Gardens. Not to brag, but to let you see the selflessness of an incredible team.
Over the past several years, our work has steadily moved toward a deeper commitment to accessibility. So, what does that actually mean? How does that commitment show up in our actions? How do you—our valued members and supporters—see it, even if we don’t always put it on a banner? Let me offer a few behind-the-scenes glimpses.
During our Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition, we quietly partner with local agencies to offer special, private access for children and adults with disabilities and their families. It can mean the freedom to experience the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory at a gentler pace. It can mean touching the grand faces of Jaume Plensa’s Utopia. It can mean a less crowded visit—with dimmed lights and lowered volumes—so a family can simply be a family.
We’ve also experimented with hop-on, hop-off trams for older and other guests who may need a little help getting around—especially when they want to take in the full grandeur of Alexander Liberman’s Aria. We’ve added fourseason scooters to our accessibility “tool belt,” giving more families the opportunity to fully explore the entire park experience. We paved the east side of The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden to improve mobility and ease of use for guests using wheelchairs. You’ll find new seating throughout the grounds, for days when knees get weary.
We even changed the way we serve food in the James & Shirley Balk Café—bringing meals to your table, so a parent can manage a stroller without worrying about juggling trays or spilling award-winning cuisine.
One of my favorite moments came quietly, too: a morning this past holiday season when a special guest from the North Pole visited children who have sensory challenges in a relaxed setting, making the holiday season feel a little more possible—and a little more magical.
Accessibility is real. It has no bounds. And as we work to minimize barriers—especially financial—we do it alongside our partners, locally, regionally, nationally, to ensure more families can experience Meijer Gardens. That includes programs such as Museums for All as well as our visitor exchange partnership with Kent District Library.
This isn’t about asking for credit for these efforts. It’s simply to let you know our hearts are aligned with that quiet promise: Welcome to all.
It’s also an assurance to you that your membership, your attendance, your philanthropic investment and your ambassadorship make these moments possible. We may not always advertise them. And yet, quietly, we’re making this little part of our world on the East Beltline more open—more accessible—more welcoming.
There’s no ask in this letter. Just gratitude and a truth worth saying out loud: Our staff, partners and volunteers keep showing up with earnestness, even when no one is looking.
With that—thank you. Thank you for your support, your attendance, your advocacy, And thank you for your faith in the quiet promise being fulfilled here each and every day at Meijer Gardens.
Warmly,
Charles Burke, President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
May–November 2026
Meijer Gardens revels in the opulence and radiance of Dale Chihuly’s uncontainable expression.
Dale Chihuly is internationally celebrated for his bold and experimental art, primarily in the medium of glass. He initially studied interior design and architecture—fields that would later inform his sitespecific sculptural projects. Chihuly’s work with glass began while studying fiber weaving, which led to the inclusion of glass in his tapestries. His expansion into traditional glassblowing launched a career of endless exploration and innovation.
After studying sculpture and glass in graduate school, he received a Fulbright Scholarship to work at the famed Venini glass factory, on the island of Murano, near Venice. The first American glassblower to work at this prestigious factory, Chihuly learned historical glass techniques and the collaborative method central to his bold endeavors in this ancient medium.
Chihuly’s mastery of glass has allowed him to achieve works of unprecedented scale and impact. Uniting color, light, form, and space to deliver uniquely immersive experiences, Chihuly has completed ambitious architectural installations across the globe. For the past 60 years, glass has been the material with which he dazzles beholders and the lens through which he engages with the natural world and diverse cultural traditions.
Meijer Gardens has shared in the exploration of his adventurous work, having presented an indoor exhibition in 2003 and an extensive staging of his outdoor installations throughout the grounds in 2010. In addition, three major works by Chihuly have entered our permanent collection: Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier (2002), Lena’s Garden (2009) and Dappled Silver Ikebana with Trio of Gilded Pink Stems (2009). Over the years, Chihuly formed a special bond with Fred and Lena Meijer; he named Lena’s Garden in honor of Lena’s love of flowers and even painted a custom pair of tennis shoes for Lena, who was fond of wearing them on special occasions.
Right: Fred Meijer and Dale Chihuly in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory in 2003, before the opening of Color and Light: Chihuly at the Gardens.
For a rare third exhibition at the Meijer Gardens, Chihuly’s inspired works will magnificently transform both the outdoor gardens and indoor galleries, showcasing the artist's dramatic range and creative mastery. Representing six decades of creative exploration and innovation, CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens offers one of the deepest immersive experiences ever of this boundless artist. A taste of what awaits our visitors is illustrated here.
OUTDOORS | CHIHULY-FILLED GARDENS & LANDSCAPES
The lush and ever-changing natural spaces of Meijer Gardens will feature a number of monumental installations, among them Chihuly’s iconic Icicle Tower and Blue Polyvitro Crystals. Water-based installations include assorted colorful Floats and sinuous Heron and Marlin groupings, along with Chihuly’s extravagant Float Boat and Fiori Boat, both anchored in the ponds of The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden.
INDOORS | TICKETED EXHIBITION CHIHULY: RADIANT FORMS
Within the indoor Sculpture Galleries, the ticketed exhibition Chihuly: Radiant Forms will offer visitors a broad range of works highlighting more than four decades of Chihuly’s artistic evolution. The selection showcases the ways he has embraced traditions and styles from across the globe, spanning North America to Southern Europe, the Middle East to the Far East. Beginning with the 1975 Navajo Blanket Cylinder series, Chihuly has drawn inspiration and insight from a wealth of other cultures, among them Indigenous American (Cylinders and Baskets); Italian (Macchia, Venetians, Putti, Rotolo); Eastern Mediterranean (Persians); and Japanese (Ikebana and Niijima Floats).
General admission including CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens is free for Meijer Gardens members and guests at their membership level. For other visitors and guests:
Adult $25 Child (ages 3–18) $14
Senior $20 Child (ages 0–2) Free
Student $19 Museums for All $2
CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Related Workshops
Reclaimed Glass Mosaic
Thursday, May 21, 1–3 pm
$50 Members, $60 Nonmembers
Amber Oudsema
Yoga and Chihuly
Sunday, June 14, 9:30 am–11 am
$25 Members, $35 Nonmembers
Kim Stoffel
Fused Glass Wall Flower
Sunday, July 12, 1-3:30 pm OR Sunday, September 13, 1-3:30 pm
$180 Members, $190 Nonmembers
Gloria Badiner
Visit MeijerGardens.org/Chihuly for additional programming announcements.
Look for daily, weekly, and monthly opportunities to engage with the exhibition through guided walking tours, family drop-in programs, and lectures.
Vivid glass artworks will draw admirers far and wide to CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank , a Wintrust Community Bank. Please enjoy a glimpse of what inspires our exhibition sponsor.
Macatawa Bank actively supports the arts in many ways— providing financial contributions, giving of time and talents to serve on boards or volunteer, and providing access to West Michigan events for their customers, employees, and communities.
“We also stay connected to leadership in our arts and culture organizations, so we can offer help if and when needed,” notes Chris Woelffer, Chief Executive Officer, Market Head – Michigan, Wintrust Financial Corporation. “A vibrant arts community enriches us all. We support West Michigan organizations that work to make arts and culture accessible.
“Our leadership believes in giving back.”
West Michigan is home to Macatawa Bank, whose employees want to live and work in a community that supports a vital arts culture— an affinity that helps the bank retain and attract talent. Macatawa supports arts initiatives large and small, in the communities they serve.
“As a Wintrust Community Bank, we’re able to do more in the arts community, such as sponsoring the CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens exhibition and ArtPrize,” Woelffer adds. “We’re also proud to support things like Has Heart, supporting veterans and showcasing their art.”
Employees and directors past and present have served on Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Symphony, Opera Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Art Museum, Holland Area Arts Council, and other boards. Leaders have served Meijer Gardens in volunteer roles as Board President, Executive
Committee Membership, and helping raise funds to support the venue’s remarkable growth.
“Macatawa Bank has been involved in supporting Meijer Gardens and enjoying the benefits they bring to the community since the early days. One of our favorite connections has been to the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and Grandparents Day. We look forward to CHIHULY.
“Meijer Gardens is so important to West Michigan. Our consideration, first and foremost, was to continue support of this amazing asset. We look for ways to make art accessible, and we thought: ‘What better way to showcase the power of Wintrust than to support the CHIHULY exhibit?’ Chihuly resonates with people in an open, accessible way. We know Meijer Gardens will make this a first-class experience.”
Macatawa Bank finds it most exciting that of two exhibitions Chihuly chooses to do in 2026, one is in West Michigan.
“The relationship with the artist is a tribute to Meijer Gardens. We’re proud to support the West Michigan exhibit—to create opportunities for our neighbors to attend and to showcase West Michigan to visitors from other areas who’ll come for this unique exhibition.”
Woelffer appreciates West Michigan’s tremendous pride in community and people who are supportive and collaborate with their time and resources. “The commitment made to venues and arts organizations such as Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Symphony, Grand Rapids Ballet, Opera Grand Rapids, supporting student art programs—it speaks to an engaged community my family and I are enjoying being a part of.”
SENSORY-FRIENDLY
EVENING HOURS, 6–8 PM:
Monday, April 6, Wednesday, April 8, and Thursday, April 9.
Please see our website for more information.
MEMBER EARLY HOURS
Saturday early hours: 8–9 am
Sunday early hours: 9–11 am
MARCH
Sunday, March 1
Saturday, March 7
Sunday, March 8
Sunday, March 15
Sunday, March 22
Sunday, March 29
APRIL
Saturday, April 4
Sunday, April 5
Sunday, April 12
Sunday, April 19
Sunday, April 26
With Wings All Aflutter
FRED & DOROTHY
FICHTER BUTTERFLIES ARE BLOOMING
Sunday, March 1–
Thursday, April 30
Perhaps nothing heralds the arrival of spring more invitingly than the return of Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming . Warm up with us as we greet the 31st year of this landmark event the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the United States.
“Stepping into Michigan’s largest glasshouse and being bathed in warmth while thousands of butterflies swirl in vibrant color and motion is a feeling you can’t get anywhere else,” says Wendy Overbeck Dunham, Director of Horticulture. “After months of winter, that first breath of tropical air and the close-up encounters with butterflies are pure joy.”
Indeed, our five-story, 15,000-square-foot Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory each year becomes a newfound paradise for more than 10,000 lepidopteran chrysalides that travel to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park from tropical countries including Belize, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Kenya, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
BECOMING BUTTERFLIES
Shipped as chrysalides—nature’s perfect package—these winged wonders are carefully raised and packed by butterfly farmers for air freight, then checked and sorted in Denver before finally landing in West Michigan, where our horticulture team carefully inspects and places them in an emergence area for care and monitoring before their release.
Every week, a flight of 1,250 chrysalides arrives as new butterflies spread their wings. “It’s an immersive experience,” Dunham adds. “The conservatory will be full of energy! As you wander, take time to pause and watch the butterflies flit, flutter and feed. Those quiet moments are what make our butterflies unforgettable.”
THE ART, SCIENCE AND MAGIC OF LEARNING
Equally fascinating are the learning opportunities for youth and adults alike, notes Vice President of Philanthropy Aaron Turner. “This world-class exhibition deepens our commitment to education and accessibility by attracting families and schools from near and far—and it all happens because of the generosity of our members and donors, starting with the Fichter family.
“Seeing the awe on kids’ faces as they interact with our butterflies is magical. It’s art meets science.”
This season, expect more magic than ever: additional nectar-rich plants beloved by butterflies, arches filled with vivid foliage and blooms, and thoughtfully placed feeding stations brimming with overripe fruit.
“Most people don’t know that butterflies taste with their tiny feet,” Dunham explains. “Our feeding stations create fantastic photo ops and bring butterflies close enough to admire their intricate wing patterns and how their straw-like proboscis uncoils to feed.”
Among the abundant visual highlights are bold, saturated plantings in vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, complemented by cool blue and purple notes, punctuated by silvery-white accents. Find these stunning displays along our corridors and blossoming into the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse.
SWEET TREATS AND THEMED KEEPSAKES
After you bond with our beautiful butterflies, stop by the James & Shirley Balk Café to enjoy our new homemade butterfly-inspired desserts and beverages, honoring the exhibition stars. The neighboring DeVos–Keeler Gift Shop will debut butterfly-themed apparel and items, and seasonal plants to help you welcome spring.
“Indoors and out, our 158 acres are awakening,” Dunham says with a smile. “As the season unfolds, early bulbs give way to cherry blossoms and more. Come for the butterflies, stay for everything else!”
Bring your family and take flight with us!
Must-See Member Events
Flutter above the crowds during member early hours on Sundays in March and April, and exclusive member events:
Night of the Butterflies family parties
Monday, March 16
Sunday, March 22
Night of the Butterflies members 21+ party
Monday, March 30
Visit MeijerGardens.org/butterflies to learn more and to RSVP for your Night of the Butterflies party date.
Tuesday evenings, we’re open late. Grab the kids—and your flashlights!—for a Tuesday Night Lights butterfly hunt until 9 pm. Remember to look up: Many butterflies roost after dusk.
Butterfly Ballet: From Wriggles to Wings Saturday, February 28, 10 am or 12:30 pm OR Sunday, March 1, 12 pm or 2:30 pm
$7 members | $12 nonmembers | 2 and younger free
Let your spirit take flight during this delightful butterfly ballet, featuring the Grand Rapids Ballet School Junior Company. Enchanting for all ages, the ballet is reimagined this year through captivating costumes, spectacular music, and exquisite choreography by Attila Mosolygo, School & Junior Company Director.
Registration is required. Please visit: MeijerGardens.org/calendar
NOTE: American Sign Language interpretation will be provided for the 10 am performance on Saturday, February 28. Please email access@meijergardens.org to reserve a space for ASL service.
NEW! Butterfly Tea Party Select dates, registration required. More info at: MeijerGardens.org/calendar
Related Programming
Applies toward Great Lakes Floral Association
Certified Florist Continued Education Unit (CEU).
Butterfly Photography
Sunday, February 22, 9–11 am
$35 Members | $45 Nonmembers
Dusty Brown, Professional Photographer
Capture stunning photos of butterflies in the peaceful, early hours of the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, before it opens to the public.
Soundbath with the Butterflies
Saturday, February 28, 7:30–9 am
$35 Members | $45 Nonmembers
Karen Ison Watson, Yoga Zen
Relax and rejuvenate with an immersive sound bath experience among the butterflies in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, led by Karen Ison Watson from Yoga Zen.
Hygge Moss Frame
Saturday, February 28, 1–4 pm
$115 Members | $125 Nonmembers
Katie Reitemeier, Begin Within Studio
Bring Norwegian hygge coziness into your home by crafting a moss frame for a touch of natural comfort and style.
Papermaking with Poise: Butterflies
Saturday, March 14, 1–4:30 pm
$65 Members | $75 Nonmembers
Tatsuki Hakoyama, Artist
Discover the art of papermaking with artist
Tatsuki Hakoyama. Create butterfly-inspired handmade designs using the esuki pulppainting technique.
Attracting Native Pollinators in Your Garden
Sunday, March 29, 9:30–11 am
$25 Members | $35 Nonmembers
Carolyn Miller, Michigan State University
Learn how to foster a welcoming garden and receive expert tips on plants and cultivation that support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Wings in Bloom: A Garden Apron Workshop
Sunday, March 29, 1–4 pm
$60 Members | $70 Nonmembers
Kailey Sullivan, Artist
Celebrate spring and butterflies with printmaking artist Kailey Sullivan as you create vibrant, nature-inspired prints for a gardening apron.
Butterfly Planter Charms Workshop
Saturday, April 18, 1–3 pm
$60 Members | $70 Nonmembers
Denise Garcia, SOCCO
Create dazzling sun-catching planter charms using crystals, beads, and wire, guided by Denise Garcia, owner of SOCCO.
Events to Remember
It’s the season to be social! We have a lively lineup of special events to freshen up your spring.
WINTER NIGHTS MEIJER GARDENS
Carnival of Light and Wonder
Tuesday evenings, 5–9 pm, through February Included with admission
Back by popular demand—and bigger than ever! Winter Nights at Meijer Gardens excites with the dazzling sights and sounds of Carnival, transforming your Tuesday evenings into a joyous celebration of light, color, and creativity.
VALENTINE’S DAY MEIJER GARDENS
A Love Song in Every Course
Saturday, February 14, 2026
6 pm, Cocktail Hour | 7–9 pm, Dinner and Performance | $115 per person | 10% Member Discount | Ages 21+ | Includes welcome champagne | Purchase bar available
Treat your sweet to a Valentine’s Day in timeless style with our immersive evening of romance, rhythm, and refined dining—perfect for couples, close friends, or anyone who loves love.
Your date night begins with complimentary champagne in the BISSELL Corridor and Lena
Discover live performances from local and regional artists, illuminated installations, and whimsical projections, along with festive surprises tucked into unexpected corners of the Garden Pavilion and BISSELL Corridor.
February 3: Hip Hop
February 10: Grand Rapids Ballet | Movement
February 17: Carnival | Fat Tuesday
February 24: Tropical Tuesday
Meijer Tropical Conservatory, where you’ll sip, stroll, and savor the warm ambiance amid lush nature and art.
Festivities continue in the Garden Pavilion with an intimate jazz dinner, inspired by the most iconic love songs in film history. Live jazz artists will serenade the room with heartfelt standards and cinematic classics, while vintage film clips are projected overhead— setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Indulge in a three-course family-style dinner, lovingly crafted by our award-winning Culinary Arts & Events team. Each playfully named course reflects a favorite film love song and is paired with curated champagne and Atucún chocolate-covered strawberries.
Two-and four-top tables will be arranged for optimal views of the performance stage.
Seating is limited for this night of delight. Reserve your table today:
SPRING NIGHTS
Tuesdays, April 21 and 28, 2026 | 5–9 pm
Included with admission
Celebrate spring in full flight during two special late-night evenings at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Spring Nights invites guests to experience the magic of twilight among vibrant tropical blooms and more than 7,000 butterflies in flight.
A special addition to our beloved Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition, Spring Nights at Meijer Gardens fills the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory and surrounding spaces with live music from local artists. Each performance creates a unique soundtrack to your flutter-filled stroll.
Sip and savor your way through the evening with bourbon-themed beverages available for purchase—crafted to complement the warmth and wonder of spring. Guests 21 and older could also enjoy specialty cocktails and a curated bar menu, while everyone is invited to indulge in themed treats and beverages available for purchase in the James & Shirley Balk Café.
TOP WEDDING VENUE IN WEST MICHIGAN
-Grand Rapids Magazine
Celebrate Love at Meijer Gardens
A Wedding Distinctly Yours
When envisioning their wedding day, every couple dreams of a celebration that reflects their unique story—in a place as beautiful, memorable and inspiring as the love being celebrated. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park offers all this. And more.
A SETTING LIKE NO OTHER
Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by lush gardens, blooming flowers, worldrenowned sculptures. As the nation’s No. 1 Best Sculpture Park three years running and the Groups Today Readers’ Choice Award winner for Best Garden, Conservatory, or Botanical Garden in 2024 and 2025, Meijer Gardens offers an unmatched blend of art, culture, and nature.
Each path, pond, and vista creates a stunning backdrop for your wedding photography—scenes you simply won’t
find in a hotel ballroom or traditional venue. From the serene elegance of the Tassell–Wisner–Bottrall English Perennial Garden to the sweeping grandeur of the Sculpture Park, every corner of our grounds provides a setting worthy of your most cherished memories.
A PLACE FOR ALL SEASONS
Love is always in bloom at Meijer Gardens, throughout the year. Our Master Gardeners design and maintain landscapes that transform beautifully with every season—from vibrant spring blooms and summer color to rich autumn hues and tranquil winter splendor. Whether your dream wedding is bright and airy or cozy and romantic, Meijer Gardens provides the perfect setting for your occasion.
FULL-SERVICE EXPERIENCES FOR EVERY MOMENT
From rehearsal dinner to ceremony, reception, and even a next-day brunch, we provide a seamless experience for you and your guests. With multiple event spaces—each offering distinct character and ambiance—your celebration could unfold in a variety of breathtaking settings, all amidst one extraordinary venue.
AWARD-WINNING CUISINE
Our dedicated award-winning chefs craft exceptional menus to suit your tastes and vision. Whether you prefer an elegant plated dinner, a lively cocktail reception, or creative themed stations, our Culinary Arts team ensures every bite is as unforgettable as your surroundings.
A TREAT FOR YOUR GUESTS
While you’re capturing unforgettable photos among the gardens and sculptures, your guests could enjoy exploring the grounds— strolling through the conservatories, visiting art installations, taking in the beauty of nature. It’s an experience that keeps everyone engaged, inspired and delighted throughout your special day.
WEDDINGS FOR EVERY SEASON. MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is truly a place for all seasons—where art, nature, and love come together in beautiful harmony. Spring, summer, autumn, or winter, your wedding will be as unique and remarkable as your story.
Begin planning your delightful day. Visit MeijerGardens.org/love or email: facilityrental@meijergardens.org
The Ideal Gifts for Newlyweds
Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the happy couple? Meijer Gardens memberships, public event tickets, and gift cards make wonderful gifts—inviting newlyweds to return again and again to the place where their love story began. These thoughtful experiences create memories to last long after the wedding festivities.
Left: Abby Fox Photography. Middle, top: Megan Hannon Photography. Middle, bottom: Photography by Lynell Miller for Amy Carroll Photography . Right: Jessie Silva Photography.
Fill Your Cup—And Then Some
The James & Shirley Balk Café is ready to serve you, in more ways than ever.
CALLING ALL COFFEE CONNOISSEURS!
Nestled inside our bustling James & Shirley Balk Café is a newly expanded, full-service coffee bar, complete with baristas ready to whip up a curated menu of lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffee, and hot cocoa creations. Prefer to keep things simple? Enjoy premium drip coffee and a selection of fine teas.
Whatever your choice, complement your cup with an expanded selection of locally made artisan baked goods and small bites for a lovely treat.
“The enhanced coffee bar is yet another way we’re continuing to grow with our members and guests,” notes Director of Culinary Arts & Events Amanda Harper. “Enjoy a latte as you wander our grounds. We’re thrilled to elevate our culinary offerings with this new experience.”
HUNGRY FOR MORE?
The Balk Café is taking the dining experience up a notch with new table service, After placing your order at the counter, settle into your favorite spot under Lena’s Garden—the whimsical ceiling sculpture created in honor of Lena Meijer by renowned
glass artist Dale Chihuly—or a fountain-side seat on the outdoor Grand Rapids Press Terrace, or a spot in the Loeschner Grand Atrium, beneath another Chihuly: Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier. Relax, as our award-winning Culinary Arts team prepares your meal.
Did you know our Balk Café menu changes with the seasons? During your spring visit, enjoy globally inspired, farm-to-table offerings of sandwiches, salads, and more—all made with fresh local ingredients. In a bit of a hurry? Try our Fresh Express graband-go options, alongside a wide selection of self-serve fountain and canned drinks, juices, wine, and Michigan craft beers.
INSIDE AND OUT
Beyond the Balk Café, our culinary options are equally tempting. As spring weather emerges, venture out to the ice cream parlor in the newly imagined Lena Meijer Children’s Garden or stop at our new food trailer which will be located around the grounds, stocked with hot and cold food items and with beer and wine, similar to our summer concerts concessions. Our mobile food bike returns in April, delivering quick bites, beverages and spirits all summer, helping you refuel on the go as you explore our 158 acres.
“We’re delighted to find creative and convenient new ways to serve, every day and especially during peak exhibitions,” Harper adds. “Our seasonal culinary offerings are spectacular— there’s always something delicious to discover, inside the café and out. We’re excited for your reviews!”
Left: PURE Architects / ROI Design. R ight, bottom: Steve Baran
Let the Music Move You!
Rhythm, Connection and Joy in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater
There’s nothing quite like live music under the evening sky. Here at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, music plays an essential role in bringing people together through unforgettable performances—in a setting unlike any other. As the season changes and the weather warms, we look forward to the return of concert experiences in the heart of Meijer Gardens.
*No concerts on Tuesday, June 16.
Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens will once again welcome national and international touring acts to the distinctive Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater. This highly anticipated series offers a dynamic mix of genres and performers, creating memorable summer nights filled with music, nature, and community.
The 2026 lineup will be announced in April, with your exclusive member presale beginning April 18.
Bring a picnic or grab something delicious from the Eileen DeVries Concessions Center and enjoy free, convenient on-site parking at West Michigan’s most intimate and beautiful outdoor amphitheater.
Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club continues to shine a spotlight on local and regional talent. Held on Tuesday evenings in June*, July, and August, this series invites guests to discover new artists, enjoy familiar favorites, and experience the energy of Michigan’s vibrant music scene in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
From major headliners to emerging performers, the return of music to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is something to celebrate. Make plans to join us for a season filled with rhythm, connection and the joy of live performance!
This much-anticipated annual event celebrates the timeless beauty and cultivated artistry of bonsai across the Midwest. Horticulturists and gardeners alike have long been enchanted by bonsai and its centuries-old traditions, dating to the Chinese Empire. The disciplined practice of growing and training miniature trees was later adapted and refined by the Japanese, who renamed the art “bonsai” meaning “planted in a container."
“Like Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, bonsai exists at the intersection of art, culture, and nature,” notes Senior Manager of Learning Engagement Eve Boyer.
“Our annual Bonsai Show celebrates this rich cultural expression on a grand scale.”
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
Stroll through the Huizenga Grand Room to peruse dozens of bonsai on display, created by artists from across Michigan and the Midwest. With precision, care, and patience, these artists coax trees to embody the beauty, balance, and resilience found in the natural world.
“Members from statewide bonsai clubs meet with us quarterly to coordinate the show,” Boyer adds. “It’s a labor of love that inspires us to bring the bonsai community closer and foster collaboration across the different clubs. We’re honored to host.”
OUR GUEST ARTIST
This year, we are delighted to welcome guest artist Mark Fields—renowned bonsai expert, teacher, author, and owner of Bonsai by Fields, his bonsai nursery in Indiana where he holds workshops, lectures, and demonstrations. A student of bonsai since he was only 9 years old, Fields honed his artistry in America and abroad and previously served as president of the American Bonsai Society.
Before the show opens, Fields will judge bonsai entries. Winners across three categories—Open (any skill level), Novice and Professional—will be announced Saturday at 11 am.
Introduced last year, the Novice prize recognizes bonsai artists with five years’ experience or fewer and pairs the winner with an expert mentor from a bonsai club.
DEMONSTRATIONS, VENDORS AND MORE
Throughout the weekend, enjoy complimentary demonstrations from bonsai artists in the Huizenga Grand Room and Loeschner Grand Atrium, along with bonsai videos in the O-A-K Theater.
Vendors from across the country will offer their unusual bonsai tree varieties, specialty pots, soil, fertilizer, and tools— everything you need to start or support your collection and elevate your bonsai skills.
A GARDEN OF INSPIRATION
Our permanent bonsai collection, on display in The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, offers further inspiration. Displays of diverse species and gracefully carved yews exemplify living sculpture, each a masterpiece of time, attention, and artistry.
“Bonsai is unlike anything else,” Boyer muses. “Some trees are hundreds of years old and passed down for decades, while others are young but meticulously trained to look old.
“It’s that illusion of age that really captures the imagination.”
Bonsai Workshops
Discover More During the Spring Bonsai Show.
Immerse yourself in the timeless art of bonsai during this spring’s Bonsai Show. In addition to exquisite displays, a variety of engaging workshops and educational opportunities are planned to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this living art form.
From hands-on experiences to informative sessions led by bonsai experts, there’s something for everyone—from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.
For a complete workshop listing and descriptions, and to register, please visit: MeijerGardens.org/calendar
On the Japanese Teahouse Horizon …
Tea Ceremonies
Saturdays: May 16, June 20, July 18, October 17
Times each date: 11:30 am–12:30 pm | 1:15–2:15 pm | 2:45–3:45 pm
Open Teahouse Days
Sundays: May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18
Creative Workshops
Japanese Ceramics
Sundays: May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18 | 10 am–2 pm
$70 Members | $80 Nonmembers
Harmony Nyugen, Artist
Ikebana Workshop
Thursday, July 9, 1–3 pm
$125 Members | $135 Nonmembers
Mandi Stade, Meijer Gardens
All materials provided
Please visit MeijerGardens.org/calendar to learn more.
All That Glitters
Sparkle! Presented by Greenleaf Trust
The joint was jumpin’ as Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park was transformed into a spectacular speakeasy for our annual Sparkle! holiday soirée.
The holiday party of the season, this unforgettable evening featured private access to our beloved University of Michigan Health–West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition and glimpses of the brilliant ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens Presented by
PNC Bank experience, followed by a lavish strolling dinner and signature cocktails set to a festive soundtrack by AB is Adrian Butler and Avalon Cutts-Jones Music.
A heartfelt thank you to our guests, volunteers and sponsors, who glammed up to Sparkle! with us.
We’re already planning this year’s festivities. Save the date! Join us Thursday, December 3, 2026.
Glittering Gratitude
Thank you to our generous Sparkle! sponsors.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
POINSETTIA SPONSORS
Brian & Barbara DeVries
Doug Meijer
MISTLETOE SPONSORS
Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation
Insignia Homes
Northwest Kent Mechanical
Hank & Liesel Meijer
RDV
Roger & Jakki Vander Laan
HOLLY SPONSORS
Burgess Concrete Construction
Extra Credit Projects
Fence Consultants of West Michigan
Fishbeck
Greenville
Hope Network
J.C. & Tammy Huizenga
The Mav Group
Mercantile Bank
Pioneer Construction
Rockefeller Global
Family Office
Searles Family Foundation
JUNIPER SPONSORS
Custer Inc.
Deloitte
DK Security
Doeren Mayhew
Hylant
Land Collective
Cate & Sid Jansma, Jr
Ping & Tim Liang
Candace & Bruce Matthews
David Morgenstern
Rossetti
Mark Sherwood & Saralyn Coupe
DISTILLERY SPONSOR
Eastern Kille Distillery
PHOTOBOOTH SPONSOR
KeyBank
WINE SPONSOR
Great Lakes
Wine & Spirits
COFFEE BAR SPONSOR
Mercantile Bank
BEER SPONSOR
West Side Beer Distributing
DESSERT SPONSOR
Tom Merchant
Shine With Us
Our sponsors truly put the sparkle in Sparkle! There’s no better way to strengthen your commitment to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the community we all love. Secure your spot for next year’s event! Please contact Maggie Scogg, Corporate & Community Partnerships Manager, at 616-287-1950 or mscogg@meijergardens.org.
Abby Fox Photography
A Lovely Evening Great Gardens Gala Presented
by Northern Trust
Friday, May 1, 2026
It’s our signature spring soirée—and we’re saving you a seat!
Presented by Northern Trust, Great Gardens Gala promises an unforgettable evening of gastronomic creations from our award-winning Culinary Arts team, exciting entertainment, and a one-ofa-kind live auction featuring exclusive experiences and intriguing items curated to pamper you and your guests.
Make memories with us Friday, May 1, while supporting our ongoing mission to ensure Meijer Gardens continues to thrive as a place where we all grow.
Save Your Seat!
Tickets and sponsorship details will be available soon at: MeijerGardens.org/GreatGardensGala
Have any questions? Please contact Maggie Scogg, Corporate & Community Partnerships Manager, at mscogg@meijergardens.org or 616-287-1950.
Abby Fox Photography
Help Shape Our Story
2026 Sponsorship and Naming Opportunities
Every season at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park tells a story—created through the generosity of our community, which believes in the power of shared experiences. As we look ahead to a vibrant year, we invite you to support our meaningful opportunities.
From the colors of CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank to the music-filled nights of the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series, these iconic experiences are made possible through corporate and individual sponsorship support.
This year also brings exciting momentum for the future. Renovations to the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden are reimagining spaces where curiosity takes root. These updates will enhance hands-on learning, play and discovery.
At the heart of these efforts is a continued commitment to inclusion. Our Accessibility Initiative focuses on removing barriers and expanding access, so every guest can fully experience the beauty and joy of our venue. With improved pathways, sensory-friendly programming and more, your support helps make Meijer Gardens welcoming to all.
Whether you are drawn to concerts under the stars, stunning installations, playful garden spaces or inclusive community experiences, there is a way for you or your company to be part of the story. Let’s start a conversation where together, we can nurture the seasons ahead.
Please contact our Philanthropy Department for more information at philanthropydpt@meijergardens.org or 616-975-3177.
Becoming a sponsor is more than lending your name; it’s creating memories through creativity and connection for thousands of visitors while offering visibility, engagement, and community impact for you or your company.
Signature events provide special ways to get involved as well. The Great Gardens Gala Presented by Greenleaf Trust brings together friends and supporters for an unforgettable evening that sustains the mission of Meijer Gardens.
Tribute naming opportunities offer the opportunity to honor a loved one, celebrate a legacy, or mark a meaningful milestone with a plaque, tree, or bench.
A visitor with low vision experiences Utopia, through tactile exploration during an inclusive event.
Children enjoy water-play with boats in the Great Lakes Garden.
Spring Renewal in the Lena Meijer Children’s Gardens
Spring breathes new life into Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
multisensory opportunities for discovery and play that instill a lifelong appreciation for art and nature.”
GROWING FOR THE FUTURE
This is most significant as we wrap up phase 1 of the delightful garden’s multiyear update. Guests will notice improvements such as a reconfigured Information Center with a year-round ice cream parlor opening this spring, larger and more accessible gathering spaces; a thoughtfully reimagined back patio and deck addition for more seating; updated restrooms and changing stations; and expanded refreshments, including seasonal beverages and snacks.
As snow drifts away and winter thaws, trees begin to bud, a bounty of bulbs emerges, migrating wildlife returns, and our entire campus reawakens.
This year, the change of seasons brings refreshing excitement to our Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. Inspired by Lena Meijer’s love of gardens and children, this intergenerational space has been a favorite among children and families alike since it first opened in 2004.
“The Lena Meijer Children’s Garden is at the heart of our 158-acre campus,” says Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Technology Pete Crawford. “It’s one of the first major gardens experiences available to guests as they enter the park, offering unique hands-on,
Also coming this spring, the Butterfly Maze transforms into Big Girl Playground, by Mad Mom sculptor Tom Otterness. The made-for-activity sculptural playground is only the second of its kind in existence.
“I’m excited to see this space reenergized by Big Girl Playground,” Crawford adds.
“This monumental interactive sculpture promotes curiosity and play. We’re also proud to add critical amenities like a Wellness Room and adult changing table as part of the Information Center renovation, to better serve all guests.”
ROOTED IN LOVE
The Children’s Garden refresh reflects the mission and values at the heart of Meijer Gardens.
“All of our gardens are built out of love and this space honors Fred and Lena’s legacy of play,” notes Vice President of Philanthropy Aaron Turner. “The new Children’s Garden makes art and nature even more approachable for kids and families. It fulfills our promise to be a place where we all grow.”
Looking ahead, phase 2 will bring enhancements to the Tree House Village, Rock Quarry, Log Cabin and more.
“Growth only happens with the support of our donors,” Turner notes.
“Philanthropy is just love of humanity. The renewed Children’s Garden celebrates the next generation of members and donors, and there are still plenty of opportunities to be part of the excitement.”
Join the Family
Does the Children’s Garden hold a special place in your heart? Share your story better yet, join our family of donors! by contacting Vice President of Philanthropy Aaron Turner at aturner@meijergardens.org or 616-975-3177
Renderings of the new Mary's Ice Cream Parlor, opening this spring. Progressive Companies
Studio Schafer / Deneen Powell Atelier / Studio Outside
Membership in the New Year
What’s New and What’s on the Horizon
Membership at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is now simpler and more flexible—designed to help you share our beauty and joy with the people who matter most. Streamlined options make it easier to find the right fit for you, while flexible admission benefits and expanded perks give you more ways to enjoy, experience, and connect.
Whether you’re exploring the gardens, admiring sculpture, attending events, or bringing friends and family along, your membership makes every visit more meaningful.
COMING MID-FEBRUARY 2026!
Keep an eye on your mailbox and email for further information about these updates.
EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS
• Unlimited admission for a full year
• 10% discount on DeVos–Keeler Gift Shop
• merchandise, guest tickets, classes and camps, dining at the James & Shirley Balk Café and Mary’s Ice Cream Parlor*, and select ticketed programming
• Early access to purchasing additional ticketed programming including ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens Presented by PNC Bank, Jazz Brunches series, summer camps and more—plus continue enjoying early access to our Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens.
• Member-only hours and events
• Member Express entry
• Reciprocal benefits at nearly 400 gardens and conservatories across North America
• Subscription to Meijer Gardens’ Seasons magazine
*Dining discount does not apply to alcohol, prepackaged snacks, or concessions.
CONNECT WITH US
Our Membership team is always happy to answer any questions you may have. Please contact us at 616-977-7689 or membership@meijergardens.org. Thank you for being part of our Meijer Gardens community!
INDIVIDUAL DUAL FRIENDS & FAMILY
• ADMITS ONE NAMED MEMBER PER VISIT
• DISCOUNT WITH VALID STUDENT ID
Your membership is more than a pass through the gates: It’s an investment in the Meijer Gardens you love.
Your membership support sustains seasonal displays, advances ongoing improvements, and brings to life the exhibitions and events that make every visit fresh and inspiring.
• ADMITS TWO PEOPLE PER VISIT
• AT LEAST ONE VISITOR MUST BE A NAMED MEMBER
• NO MORE THAN TWO NAMED MEMBERS PER MEMBERSHIP
• ADMITS UP TO TWO ADULTS AND SIX CHILDREN UNDER AGE 18 PER VISIT
• AT LEAST ONE VISITOR MUST BE A NAMED MEMBER
• NO MORE THAN TWO NAMED MEMBERS PER MEMBERSHIP
Quarterly Tributes
IN HONOR
Jean Christiansen
Heather Belter
Quinn Keller
Amie and Michael McCaw
Terry Kost
I J Campbell
Bunica Maria
Ryan and Oana Stiff
Lilly Mohan
Hendrickson Family
Mohan Family
Kim Nichols Anonymous
Janet Sparks Anonymous
Brandon and Anna Tran
Jacque Phillippe
Ian and Maisie VanderWal
Michele and James Seasly
IN MEMORY
John Bergin
Sue Bergin
Sonia Bledsoe
Cheri Schipper
June Bush
Erika Bush-Delaney and Michael Delaney
George Lee Darooge
William and Margie Darooge
Mary Forslund
Don and Ann Kelley
Connie Bellows
Linda Dodge
Barbara Forslund
Barbara Gordon
Karl Kristen
Mary Lou Lovett
Dave and Linda Newton
Elizabeth Petro
Mary and Kenny Schoenborn
Lynn Stepaniak
JoAnn Goering
Kay Chase
Kelly Holmes
Amy Assenmacher and Joseph Bellemore
John Hopkins Anonymous
Doug Humphries
John and Maryanne Humphries
Betty Kingston
Eleanor Bryant
Mary Ohm
Each tribute made in honor or memory also recognizes Meijer Gardens as a meaningful place in our community.
Please visit MeijerGardens.org/donate to learn more about these opportunities or to contribute to our annual fund.
Shirley Klein
Georgia Rae Neil
Juanita McCaw
Amie and Michael McCaw
Suzanne Miller
Mark and Marti Prein
Elsie Post
David Kouchnerkavich
Lila Rockwell
Harry M Frietchen
Maple Hill Wednesday
Morning Ladies Golf League
Sally Schaefer
Doug Proctor and John Schaefer
Douglas Scheidel
Dennis Wooldridge and Jackie Del Raso
William Schulte
Paul and Claudia Schulte
Haley Faith Sweet
The Sweet Family
Tag and Sinka Whipple
Hugh and Margaret Whipple
Mark Daniel Wisby
Sue Bergin
These gifts were received between September 1 and November 30, 2025. Those honored or memorialized are listed in bold type, while donors are in regular type.
NOTE: Beginning later in 2026, Quarterly Tributes throughout the year will appear on MeijerGardens.org/tribute. Kindly await further information regarding this change.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park promotes the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts.
Meijer Gardens receives funding from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
8–9 am | Sunday 9–11 am. 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 February. Hours may change seasonally or during special exhibitions. Visit MeijerGardens.org for details.
Early Hours, first full weekend of each month:
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.
