May 4, 2011
An annual rite of spring: Mothers Day at the Arboretum
A mother and daughter visit the Arboretum.Arboretum Foundation/Niall Dunne
A trip to Washington Park Arboretum on Mothers Day is a Seattle rite of spring. Families come in droves to stroll along historic Azalea Way and see the spectacular azaleas, rhododendrons, and dogwoods in full bloom.
The Arboretum Foundation and the UW Botanic Gardens Education Department will once again host their popular annual Mother’s Day event, from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 8, at the Arboretum.
Families can have a free instant photo taken at the north end of Azalea Way, close to the Graham Visitors Center, and can enjoy fun, plant-themed activities including:
- A crafts table where visitors can make Mothers Day cards using pressed plants and flowers;
- Two 45-minute guided walking tours of the Arboretum, focusing on azaleas, rhododendron, and other plants in bloom (departing at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. from the visitors center);
- Pollination and flower dissection on Azalea Way, led by Arboretum Garden Guides.
There will be a coffee cart at the visitors center, and the Arboretum Gift Shop will be selling select, Mothers Day-themed items at a 10 percent discount. Admission and parking are free.
For more information, call 206-325-4510 or visit online.
