What's Happening at Smithsonian Gardens

Exhibits and Exhibitions

Visitor Education

Smithsonian Gardens Events

  • Weekly Garden Tours are available from May through September (weather permitting). No tours on federal holidays.
Ripley Garden

Smithsonian Events Calendar

To learn more about other upcoming Smithsonian events please visit:
The Smithsonian Events Calendar >

Garden Fest

Garden Fest 2013

The idea for Garden Fest was sown in 2006 and has grown into an annual all day family-friendly event presented by the Smithsonian Gardens (SG). The purpose of Garden Fest is to highlight each of the Smithsonian gardens and connect people to plants through educational demonstrations and engaging hands-on activities. Garden Fest takes place each year in the Enid A. Haupt Garden during spring.

Container Contest

Container Contest 2013

Garden Fest activities include the second annual Container Contest, an opportunity for garden enthusiasts of all levels to show off their unique potted designs in a friendly competition. This year’s contest challenges participants to think outside the pot -- find an object to repurpose as a container for plants. Contest entries will be judged at noon on the day of Garden Fest. Register online and share your Earth Matters container with Smithsonian Gardens.