January 3, 2025 - The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is thrilled to unveil its lineup of 2025 Showcase Exhibits, offering visitors a year of immersive, family-friendly experiences. Each exhibit blends nature, art and interactivity to create unforgettable memories for guests of all ages. Below is a preview of what’s to come:
Floor is Lava!
January 11 – April 6, 2025
Get ready for an adventure as the Conservatory transforms into the hottest garden around! Inspired by the childhood game, Floor is Lava! challenges visitors to navigate an obstacle course set amidst fiery hues, tropical plants and a roaring volcano centerpiece. Perfect for all ages, this exhibit combines fun, botanical beauty and even a bit of education on volcanic science. Don’t fall in!
Floor is Lava! is sponsored by: English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, Magee-O’Connor Foundation, Fort Wayne Park Foundation, PNC Charitable Trusts and 103.9 Wayne FM.
Color in Motion: Butterfly Exhibit
April 15 – June 22, 2025
Spring takes flight with Color in Motion, where exotic live butterflies bring vibrant colors and natural wonder to life. Watch butterflies emerge from their chrysalides and explore the lush landscape of multicolored blooms. This sensory-rich experience highlights the beauty of these delicate pollinators while emphasizing their crucial role in ecosystems.
Color in Motion: Butterfly exhibit is sponsored by: English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, Fort Wayne Park Foundation, in memory of Jo Ann and William Wyatt, 21Alive and 97.3 WMEE.
…Something Blue
June 28 – November 16, 2025
Celebrate the romance of summer and autumn with ...Something Blue, a wedding-inspired garden exhibit. Featuring dramatic plantings, a grand fountain and enchanting blue-themed landscapes, this exhibit offers a fairytale setting perfect for couples, photographers and nature lovers alike. Enjoy elegant touches like a ceremonial archway, floral chandeliers and interactive elements for all visitors.
…Something Blue is sponsored by: English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, Fort Wayne Park Foundation and Majic 95.1.
Fern’s Fairylight Express
November 22, 2025 – April 12, 2026
Step aboard Fern’s Fairylight Express for a whimsical journey through Fairy Glen. This enchanting winter exhibit, created in collaboration with local author and illustrator Talitha Shipman, features magical model trains, charming fairy characters and collaborative challenges to “get the train back on track.” Perfect for visitors of all ages, it’s an unforgettable adventure where imagination grows.
Fern’s Fairylight Express is sponsored by: English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, Fort Wayne Park Foundation, PBS Fort Wayne and Majic 95.1.
The Botanical Conservatory’s 2025 showcase exhibits promise something for everyone, from playful adventures to romantic escapes and immersive storytelling. For more information, hours and admission details, visit botanicalconservatory.org or call 260-427-6440.
Don’t miss these one-of-a-kind exhibits—where nature and creativity come together to inspire and delight!
About the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory offers year-round gardens, seasonal displays and educational programming in the heart of Fort Wayne. Dedicated to connecting visitors with the wonders of nature, the Conservatory serves as a vibrant community resource and tranquil retreat.