Upcoming Events & Workshops

Needle Felting and Recycled Wreath Workshop
Nov
16

Needle Felting and Recycled Wreath Workshop

SOLD OUT- Join ABG staff and local artist, Renae Bookman, for a Needle Felting and Recycled Wreath Workshop to create beautiful, hand-felted decorations and embellishments for your natural holiday wreath! In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn how to make a wreath using spruce bows and a recycled tire rim as well as the basics of needle felting to craft unique ornaments and accents using natural wool. Perfect for adding a personal, handmade touch to your fall-inspired wreath. All materials will be provided but feel free to bring natural materials from your own backyard to add a personal touch!

Extra needle felting kits are also available for purchase if you want to make more decorations than what we make in the class. You must register ahead of time. This class sells out every year so sign up and secure your spot! There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations. No refunds for requests made with less than 48 hours notice.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Nov
17

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

SOLD OUT- This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Nov
24

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Brighter Winter Nights
Nov
30

Brighter Winter Nights

Opening Night — Members are FREE, tonight only!

Nov. 30th ticket sales will take place upon entry at Admissions.
5:00 - 8:00pm
Last entry taken 30 minutes before close.

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Solstice Candle Workshop
Dec
1

Solstice Candle Workshop

Want to make these darker nights a little brighter? Join ABG staff, Katie Redmond, and learn to make your own solstice candles. Participants will use several types of molds to make homemade beeswax candles. You'll learn techniques on adding scents, apply fresh pressed flowers and colors! As you go through learning to make your candles, you will be invited to set an intention, what is it you want to bring light and warmth to in this darkest of seasons?

All materials are provided; class size is limited please register in advance. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for requests made with less than 48 hours notice.

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Mushroom Cultivation Workshop
Dec
1

Mushroom Cultivation Workshop

Learn to grow your own mushrooms! Join the owners of Far North Fungi, Allison and Gabe, for a hands-on workshop on growing oyster mushrooms. They’ll bring a mobile lab where you can create your own mushroom kit to take home. This workshop includes a 30 minute lecture, instructed lab time, and unlimited Q&A. Please wear clean clothes for lab time. Pre-registration is required.

There is a $10 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for requests made with less then 48 hours notice.

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Winter Storytime- Cozy
Dec
2

Winter Storytime- Cozy

Join us Mondays in December for an interactive storytime as we read and move our bodies! December 2nd story is “Cozy” by Jan Brett. The story and program are designed for ages 6 and younger. Staff from the Musk Ox Farm will be bringing artifacts from the farm for families and kids to interact with. The Musk Ox Farm is located in Palmer and is dedicated to gentle musk ox husbandry, qiviut production, and education that creates connections to musk oxen and their changing habitat.

Program takes place in our heated Greenhouse (limited space inside; please plan to park your strollers outside). All children must be accompanied by an adult. We will have hot chocolate and tea for sale.

Members & kids 6 and under are FREE; $5 for Non-Members.

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Mushroom Tincture Workshop
Dec
2

Mushroom Tincture Workshop

Get ready for an evening of all things medicinal fungi! Join the owners of Far North Fungi, Allison and Gabe, for a hands-on workshop on extraction methods, bottling tinctures from start to finish, and medicinal properties of Chaga, Reishi, Turkey Tail and Lions Mane mushrooms. Participants will start their own 4oz tincture as well as receive a 2oz bottle that has already been started.

This workshop will take place in our Greenhouse; please dress in layers as it can be chilly in there in the evenings. There is a $10 cancellation fee and no refunds will be given with less then 48 hours before the start of the workshop. Please call the Garden at 907-770-3692 with questions.

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Holiday Wall Hanging Basket
Dec
4

Holiday Wall Hanging Basket

Soul Sisters Basketree is back with Colleen Anagick and Sharon Hamilton to instruct you in weaving these versatile wall hanging baskets. This style basket comes right in time for the holidays. It's the ideal size for you to fill with mail, sticky notes, or your shopping and to-do list, plus you can hang your keys on it. Have fun creating your own design by choosing your choice of 3 color combinations (rainbow, autumn and northern lights). Participants will have a variety of embellishments available to choose from to personalize their baskets. All supplies are included; no experience necessary.

We have reserved 4 hours for this class but some participants may finish sooner than others. This workshop will take place inside ABG's heated Greenhouse. $5 cancellation fee applies for all cancellations. Due to the prepping of materials before the workshop, no refunds will be given with less than a 48 hour notice.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Dec
8

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Winter Storytime- Stranger in the Woods
Dec
9

Winter Storytime- Stranger in the Woods

Join us Mondays in December for an interactive storytime as we read and move our bodies! December 9th story is “Stranger in the Woods” by Carl R. James II and Jean Stoick. The story and program are designed for ages 6 and younger. Program takes place in our heated Greenhouse (limited space inside; please plan to park your strollers outside). All children must be accompanied by an adult. We will have hot chocolate and tea for sale.

Members & kids 6 and under are FREE; $5 for Non-Members.

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Kids Ice Carving Workshop
Dec
14

Kids Ice Carving Workshop

Join local artist Tommy 'Salami' O'Malley (in collaboration with the Girdwood Arts Institute) for a kid friendly ice carving workshop (recommended for kids ages 8+). Participants will learn about the basics of ice carving and how to safely use hand tools while creating a fun seasonal ice sculpture to take home. Each participant must be accompanied by an adult.
Space is limited; please register ahead of time to secure a spot. Participants will need to bring a set of warm waterproof gloves and appropriate clothing for standing outside for approximately 2 hours as they carve (workshop takes place completely outside).


What to bring to stay warm and dry!

  • Dress for winter! Wear layers, winter boots and a winter hat.

  • Insulated rubber gloves under winter gloves or mittens, or even plastic bags worn over mittens, will help to keep you dry and warm.

  • Extra gloves and mittens (to replace wet ones)

  • Hand warmers

  • Sunglasses or protective goggles

  • Drinking water, snack, and anything else you may need to stay warm

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Adult Ice Carving Workshop
Dec
14

Adult Ice Carving Workshop

Join local artist Tommy 'Salami' O'Malley (in collaboration with the Girdwood Arts Institute) for a beginners workshop on ice carving. Participants will learn about properties of ice, carving techniques, and tool safety.  Each participant will receive step-by-step instructions to carve one 10’’ x 10’’ block of ice and all necessary tools. No prior experience is necessary; come and learn a new hobby or skill!
Space is limited; please register ahead of time to secure a spot. Participants will need to bring a set of warm waterproof gloves and appropriate clothing for standing outside for approximately 2 hours as they carve (workshop takes place completely outside).

What to bring to stay warm and dry!

  • Dress for winter! Wear layers, winter boots and a winter hat.

  • Insulated rubber gloves under winter gloves or mittens, or even plastic bags worn over mittens, will help to keep you dry and warm.

  • Extra gloves and mittens (to replace wet ones)

  • Hand warmers

  • Sunglasses or protective goggles

  • Drinking water, snack, and anything else you may need to stay warm

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Winter Storytime- Whale Snow
Dec
16

Winter Storytime- Whale Snow

Join us Mondays in December for an interactive storytime as we read and move our bodies! December 16th story is “Whale Snow” by Debbie Dahl Edwardson. The story and program are designed for ages 6 and younger. Program takes place in our heated Greenhouse (limited space inside; please plan to park your strollers outside). All children must be accompanied by an adult. We will have hot chocolate and tea for sale.

Members & kids 6 and under are FREE; $5 for Non-Members.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Dec
22

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Winter Storytime- Santa’s Twin
Dec
23

Winter Storytime- Santa’s Twin

Join us Mondays in December for an interactive storytime as we read and move our bodies! December 23rd story is “Santa’s Twin” by Dean Koontz. The story and program are designed for ages 6 and younger (although this book will also appeal to older kids up through 2nd grade). Program takes place in our heated Greenhouse (limited space inside; please plan to park your strollers outside). All children must be accompanied by an adult. We will have hot chocolate and tea for sale.

Members & kids 6 and under are FREE; $5 for Non-Members.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Dec
29

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Winter Storytime- The Polar Express
Dec
30

Winter Storytime- The Polar Express

Join us Mondays in December for an interactive storytime as we read and move our bodies! December 30th story is “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg. The story and program are designed for ages 6 and younger. Program takes place in our heated Greenhouse (limited space inside; please plan to park your strollers outside). All children must be accompanied by an adult. We will have hot chocolate and tea for sale.

Members & kids 6 and under are FREE; $5 for Non-Members.

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Kids Ice Carving Workshop
Jan
11

Kids Ice Carving Workshop

Join local artist Tommy 'Salami' O'Malley (in collaboration with the Girdwood Arts Institute) for a kid friendly ice carving workshop (recommended for kids ages 8+). Participants will learn about the basics of ice carving and how to safely use hand tools while creating a fun seasonal ice sculpture to take home. Each participant must be accompanied by an adult.
Space is limited; please register ahead of time to secure a spot. Participants will need to bring a set of warm waterproof gloves and appropriate clothing for standing outside for approximately 2 hours as they carve (workshop takes place completely outside).


What to bring to stay warm and dry!

  • Dress for winter! Wear layers, winter boots and a winter hat.

  • Insulated rubber gloves under winter gloves or mittens, or even plastic bags worn over mittens, will help to keep you dry and warm.

  • Extra gloves and mittens (to replace wet ones)

  • Hand warmers

  • Sunglasses or protective goggles

  • Drinking water, snack, and anything else you may need to stay warm

View Event →
Adult Ice Carving Workshop
Jan
11

Adult Ice Carving Workshop

Join local artist Tommy 'Salami' O'Malley (in collaboration with the Girdwood Arts Institute) for a beginners workshop on ice carving. Participants will learn about properties of ice, carving techniques, and tool safety.  Each participant will receive step-by-step instructions to carve one 10’’ x 10’’ block of ice and all necessary tools. No prior experience is necessary; come and learn a new hobby or skill!
Space is limited; please register ahead of time to secure a spot. Participants will need to bring a set of warm waterproof gloves and appropriate clothing for standing outside for approximately 2 hours as they carve (workshop takes place completely outside).

What to bring to stay warm and dry!

  • Dress for winter! Wear layers, winter boots and a winter hat.

  • Insulated rubber gloves under winter gloves or mittens, or even plastic bags worn over mittens, will help to keep you dry and warm.

  • Extra gloves and mittens (to replace wet ones)

  • Hand warmers

  • Sunglasses or protective goggles

  • Drinking water, snack, and anything else you may need to stay warm

View Event →

Fall Centerpiece Workshop
Nov
14

Fall Centerpiece Workshop

SOLD OUT- Join us for a fall- inspired centerpiece workshop. We'll be using an assortment of dried and fresh materials collected from the Garden. Centerpiece will be made with birch rounds. These look great displayed on the kitchen table or as an accent piece on the porch! This workshop is recommended for ages 8+; (up to two people per centerpiece). All children must be accompanied by an adult. Workshop will take place outside, weather permitting. All materials are included but feel free to bring other natural items to incorporate into your design.

What to bring:

Warm clothes- Dress to be outside the entire time! If it rains or snows we will move to the Greenhouse.

Thin Gloves- Mittens are not recommended as you will need to be able to cut and handle thin wire and materials.

Mug- To enjoy hot beverages to keep you warm.

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Crepe Paper Mushrooms
Nov
9

Crepe Paper Mushrooms

Fall is a wonderful season for being inspired by nature and to cozy up crafting. Explore crepe paper hand-building techniques and color application to make paper mushrooms this November. Use paper, pastels, paint, moss, tree rings and adhesive to create small mushroom scenes to adorn your tabletop, mantle, or windowsill. This workshop takes place in the greenhouse and is taught by local artist Betany Porter.

All materials are provided; you must register in advance. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of the workshop.

Betany Porter received an MFA in Painting and Drawing from the Art Institute of Chicago, Post-Baccalaureate from the Oregon College of Art and Craft, and Teaching Credential from San Diego State University. She was a Contemporary Art Curator and Interdisciplinary Museum Educator at the Anchorage Museum, and Art Curator at the Alaska Botanical Garden. She has over twenty years in Art Education and over ten years Museum experience designing exhibitions, educational content, and public programs. In 2023 she was selected as a Rasmuson Foundation Individual Artist Award recipient and currently works as an Artist in Anchorage, AK.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Nov
3

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Oct
27

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $2 cancellation fee for all cancellations.

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Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 3 Discard
Oct
26

Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 3 Discard

The season for bread baking is upon us! Join Megan Walker of First Colony Farms for a three-part series that will cover everything you need to know about getting started with sourdough. This is the third and final class in the three-part series. In this session, we discuss discard. Learn what discard is, how to think outside the loaf, and use your discard to bake a variety of treats. Participants will get to taste a variety of baked goods made from discard in this session, so save some room in your tummy!

Space is limited; please register ahead of time. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice.

First Colony Farms Bakery began as a fun idea in 2020, sharing a love of sourdough bread with our community.  People loved our bread and other baked goods, and the idea birthed a microbakery!  Meghan Walker and her mother, Apryll, work together creating recipes and baking for 1000's of happy customers from Anchorage to Trapper Creek!  Based in Willow, you can find them at markets, local events, and on their weekly delivery route.

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National Fossil Day
Oct
18

National Fossil Day

National Fossil Day is an annual celebration held to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations. Join paleontologists, educators, and students in fossil-related events and activities in the Garden. Included with the price of admission; Members and children 6 and under are FREE.

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Oct
13

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place in our heated Greenhouse.

Space is limited; you must register ahead of time.

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Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 2 Bread
Oct
12

Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 2 Bread

The season for bread baking is upon us! Join Megan Walker of First Colony Farms for a three-part series that will cover everything you need to know about getting started with sourdough. This is the second class in the three-part series. In this session, we discuss the bread itself. You will learn how to make and ferment your dough, and bake your own sourdough loaves. Participants will get to taste a variety of breads in this session so save some room in your tummy!

Space is limited; please register ahead of time. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice.

First Colony Farms Bakery began as a fun idea in 2020, sharing a love of sourdough bread with our community.  People loved our bread and other baked goods, and the idea birthed a microbakery!  Meghan Walker and her mother, Apryll, work together creating recipes and baking for 1000's of happy customers from Anchorage to Trapper Creek!  Based in Willow, you can find them at markets, local events, and on their weekly delivery route.

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Fall Foliage Ink and Color Pencil
Oct
6

Fall Foliage Ink and Color Pencil

Drawing fall foliage is a great activity for beginners or experienced artists alike who want to hone their sketching ability and leaf peep at the same time. Learn to draw the wonders of fall plants by combining graphite, sumi ink, and colored pencil. Explore graphite pencil to sketch volume, basic shapes, and angles. Try sumi ink and Japanese brush painting techniques to capture line quality, movement, tonality, and gain confidence while drawing. Use colored pencils to practice layering, shading, and matching colors. Enjoy sketching outdoors in the Lower Perennial Garden and in the comfort of the Greenhouse.

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Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 1 Starter
Oct
5

Saturday Morning Sourdough Series: Part 1 Starter

The season for bread baking is upon us! Join Megan Walker of First Colony Farms for a three-part series that will cover everything you need to know about getting started with sourdough. Take all three classes for a comprehensive beginners' guide or choose the sessions that interest you the most. In our first session, we discuss starter. Learn how to care for the living colony of wild yeasts that is the foundation of every sourdough bread. Participants will take home their own starter!

Space is limited; please register ahead of time. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations; no refunds for cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice.

First Colony Farms Bakery began as a fun idea in 2020, sharing a love of sourdough bread with our community.  People loved our bread and other baked goods, and the idea birthed a microbakery!  Meghan Walker and her mother, Apryll, work together creating recipes and baking for 1000's of happy customers from Anchorage to Trapper Creek!  Based in Willow, you can find them at markets, local events, and on their weekly delivery route.

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Invasive Species Talk
Oct
4

Invasive Species Talk

Learn about the monsters of the ecological world, invasive species! Join us in the Garden for a discussion with instructor Gino Graziano dedicated towards raising awareness of these alien invaders that can threaten the health of our soils and waterways. Gino is an invasive plants specialist working with the University of Alaska Fairbanks doing a combination of research and public education. His research has focused on the control of European bird cherry trees and pesticide fate in the environment. Public education focuses on helping with invasive species removal plans and identifying invasive species whose use should be avoided. 

Gino Graziano works with the UAF Cooperative Extension Service, Integrated Pest Management Program on invasive species and forest health research and education.

Talk included with the price of admission.

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Fall Felting Fun Day 2
Sep
29

Fall Felting Fun Day 2

Explore the art of wet and needle felting to create picturesque paintings inspired by Alaska Botanical Garden scenes in this fun two-day workshop. You'll discover techniques to translate natural beauty into tactile artworks using wool fibers. During Saturday’s session, we will use luxurious merino wool to create your own autumn inspired wet felted scene and then enhance your design with needle felting embellishments during Sunday’s session. Sample scenes will be available for inspiration or arrive at the garden early to seek your own inspiration and create a design with the guidance of the instructor. All supplies are provided. Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations. No refunds for cancellations made with less than 72 hours notice.

This is a two-day workshop. No single day registrations. Schedule below:

Saturday, September 28th- 10:30am-12:30pm

Sunday, September 29th- 12:00-2:00pm

Instructor Biography:

Renae Bookman

Artist, Creator, and Educator

 With over two decades of experience, Renae Bookman is a passionate artist, creator, and educator who has dedicated her life to inspiring and nurturing the creative spirit within others. Drawing from a deep love for the outdoors and the stunning landscapes of Alaska, Renae has seamlessly woven the beauty of nature into her work and teaching. Born with an insatiable passion for learning and a compulsion for teaching, Renae is enamored by the world of wet and needle felting. This captivating craft, rooted in tactile artistry, has become her medium of choice, allowing her to translate the wonders of the natural world into vibrant, textured creations.You can find her work at AlderberryDesign.com.

SOLD OUT

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Fall Felting Fun Day 1
Sep
28

Fall Felting Fun Day 1

Explore the art of wet and needle felting to create picturesque paintings inspired by Alaska Botanical Garden scenes in this fun two-day workshop. You'll discover techniques to translate natural beauty into tactile artworks using wool fibers. During Saturday’s session, we will use luxurious merino wool to create your own autumn inspired wet felted scene and then enhance your design with needle felting embellishments during Sunday’s session. Sample scenes will be available for inspiration or arrive at the garden early to seek your own inspiration and create a design with the guidance of the instructor. All supplies are provided. Space is limited; you must register ahead of time. There is a $5 cancellation fee for all cancellations. No refunds for cancellations made with less than 72 hours notice.

This is a two-day workshop. No single day registrations. Schedule below:

Saturday, September 28th- 10:30am-12:30pm

Sunday, September 29th- 12:00-2:00pm

Instructor Biography:

Renae Bookman

Artist, Creator, and Educator

 With over two decades of experience, Renae Bookman is a passionate artist, creator, and educator who has dedicated her life to inspiring and nurturing the creative spirit within others. Drawing from a deep love for the outdoors and the stunning landscapes of Alaska, Renae has seamlessly woven the beauty of nature into her work and teaching. Born with an insatiable passion for learning and a compulsion for teaching, Renae is enamored by the world of wet and needle felting. This captivating craft, rooted in tactile artistry, has become her medium of choice, allowing her to translate the wonders of the natural world into vibrant, textured creations.You can find her work at AlderberryDesign.com.

SOLD OUT

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Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Sep
22

Vinyasa Flow Yoga

This 60 minute yoga class forms a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. This class includes asana (postures), breath work, and brief meditation after savasana to balance out our practice. The goal of this class is to provide you with a nourishing asana practice and have you leaving the garden feeling relaxed and peaceful. Please bring a yoga mat. All classes will take place inside of the Greenhouse. The Greenhouse floor is concrete so you may want to bring an extra mat or blanket for extra cushion.

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