Here are the February events for the Memphis Botanic Garden. All events are posted on our website at membg.org/things-to-do as well. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Thanks!

February 2025 Events

 

Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper
February 1 to May 21, 2025

"Only a human who listens will hear when nature talks."
-Ivan Evigvår, the oldest and wisest troll of them all

Have you heard the BIG news?! Trolls are coming to the Garden to help save the humans. At the great "Trolliefolkyfest" in a secret place, six young trolls made a pact to band together and help save the humans by rediscovering nature and teaching us how to live in harmony with the earth. They recognized the hope within each of us to take action and make positive changes toward a greater future. From the communicator Ronja Redeye to rebel Basse Buller and Ibbi Pip the optimist, these gentle giants are here to save the humans. Lean into the lore that this larger-than-life fairytale brings to the Garden this spring as art and nature intertwine in this exciting exhibition.

Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans is presented by International Paper and produced by Imagine Exhibitions.

Learn more at membg.org/trolls

 

 

Show the Love

Memphis Botanic Garden staff members have planted thousands of bulbs in preparation for this year’s spectacular spring flower display. You can support this labor of love with a donation in honor of your valentine, and we’ll mail your special someone a unique card to let them know they make your heart bloom! $20 sends one Valentine to the recipient you designate; $50 sends three Valentines to your recipients; $100 sends eight Valentines to your recipients. For expected delivery before February 14 please make your donation no later than February 1.

Click here to donate.

MBG Member Morning
February 1, 2025
7-9 am

Join us for these special MBG Members-only preview hours of Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Click here to learn more about Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans.

Troll Tram Tours
Wednesdays-Saturdays, February 1-May 21, 2025
10 am-2 pm

Join docents for a tram tour of Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. The tram will leave the tram stop approximately every 20 minutes. A special thank you to Town Village Audobon Park. 

Free with Garden admission. No reservation is necessary. Canceled if raining.

Find the Groundhogs
February 2, 2025

In celebration of Groundhog Day on February 2, our playful groundhogs, Grit & Grind, are playing hide & seek in the Garden. Stop by on February 2 and try to find them. 

Free with Garden admission. No reservation is necessary. Canceled if raining.

Homeschool Days Spring 2025
February 3, March 3, April 7, May 5, 2025
10 am-12 pm

Join us for hands-on learning that supplements your homeschool curriculum for ages 6+. This semester of Homeschool Days we will discover the natural world around us through activities and lessons inspired by Thomas Dambo's TROLLS: Save the Humans exhibition on view at the Garden from February 1 to May 21. Students will dive into the vibrant rainforest ecosystem, uncover the wonders of the natural world, explore diverse habitats, and discover how people around the world use plants in fascinating ways every day! Your registration includes all four sessions listed below. Please note Homeschool Days is on Mondays.

Spring 2025 Schedule:

February 3: Meet Rosa Sunfinger and learn about sustainability, deforestation, and the importance of the rainforest.

March 3: Join Sofus Lotus in our Garden of Tranquility and discover the mindfulness of nature.

April 7: Ippi Pip, friend of animals, will help us understand the importance of the ecosystems that different creatures call home.

May 5: We'll create tie-dye with artist & wild child Basse Buller as we learn about natural dyes and materials. 

$60 MBG Members/$80 Non-Members. Price per child participant for the semester, which includes the four sessions listed above. Adults who accompany their child will need to pay Garden admission upon entry to the Garden.  

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.

 

Caterpillar Club Spring 2025

Join us at the Garden for Pre-K fun! Parents (or grandparents, aunts, uncles, or nannies) accompany their toddler or preschooler (ages 2-5) as they share stories, play games, create crafts, and explore the natural world. Led by Kristen Zemaitis, Youth Education Program Director, Caterpillar Club is one of the few preschool adventures in Memphis that gets your little one discovering nature, hands-on, in the great outdoors.

This semester of Caterpillar Club we will discover the natural world around us through activities and lessons inspired by Thomas Dambo's TROLLS: Save the Humans exhibition on view at the Garden from February 1 to May 21. Each class will focus on each of the trolls and their message to "save the humans" by helping them reconnect with nature.

Caterpillar Club meets 10-11 am; choose either Tuesday or Wednesday sessions for the entire semester (twice a month, February through April).

Space is limited and fills up quickly, sign up today!

Spring 2025 Schedule:

• February 4 & 5: Ronja Redeye

• February 18 & 19: Ibbi Pip

• March 4 & 5:  Basse Buller

• March 18 & 19: Sofus Lotus

• April 1 & 2: Kamma Can

• April 15 & 16: Rosa Sunfinger

$120 MBG Members/$150 Non-Members

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.

 

Bringing the Outdoors In Horticulture Workshop
February 6, 2025
5:30-7 pm

Unlock the secrets to keeping your plants happy and thriving with guidance from our staff. In this informative and engaging lecture, you'll learn about essential houseplant care topics, including soil conditions, watering schedules, and understanding light requirements. Plus, get answers to any questions that might be bugging you about your green companions. Bring your questions, photos, and a curiosity to learn as we help make plant care simple. If your curious about houseplants or just starting your journey, this class is perfect for growing your knowledge! 

Category:  

• Horticulture Class 

Skill level:   

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level.  

What to expect:  

• You will learn the basics of care for indoor houseplants. 

• There will be a portion of class time to bring questions for any of your current houseplants you may be having problems with, but please leave your plants at home.

What's included in this class:  

• This class includes an hour of instruction from an on-staff horticulturist. 

Things to know: 

• This class will be focusing primarily on indoor or houseplants.  

• This is an entry-level class and will be focusing on beginners who are looking for information on watering, lighting, potting, etc.  

Pricing and registration deadline:  

• MBG Members $20/Non-Members $25 

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click here to register.

DISCOVERING PAINTING…….. it's never too late!!!! Exhibition by Bob McCabe
February 10-March 31, 2025
Reception: February 23, 2-4 pm
On view in the Grand Hallway

“I always liked to draw, which drew me to majoring in architecture in college. While there I took a ‘graphics’ class which explored various media, including two weeks focused on watercolor painting. I really enjoyed that experience and told myself that ‘I should do more of this!’  Well, that didn’t happen, and I got caught up in the blur of career, family, and life.

So, fast forward five decades, and I found myself retired in Nashville, Tennessee, and as I was approaching my 75th birthday, in 2016, I decided to take an ‘Introduction to Watercolor Painting’ class at the Watkins Art Institute. Well, I guess the result of that was what they call an epiphany. 

I became obsessed with learning how to paint and for the last eight years I have been ‘thrashing’ about exploring watercolor, then acrylic, and most recently oil painting. When I began painting I started an Instagram page as a ‘Journal’ of the work I was doing and if you go to bobmccabestudio on Instagram you will see a record of the work I have produced since the beginning. Painting has been a wonderful and fulfilling addition to my life and my only regret is that I didn’t start sooner.

The collection of work in this show is my attempt to give you some sense of my journey.  I hope you enjoy it. Just remember…………. it's never too late to try something new!!!” - Bob McCabe

LET’S EAT Exhibition by Carolyn Moss and Georgia Smith
February 10 - March 30, 2025
Reception: March 2, 2-4pm
On view in Fratelli’s Cafe

“Delightful unexpected table scapes of food and delicious plates of fruits and vegetables will make you lick your lips in hunger as you enjoy the LET’S EAT! Exhibition by Carolyn Moss and Georgia Smith during February and March at Fratelli’s Cafe. 

Two artists painting on the same canvas? Not for everybody but Carolyn and Georgia find it exciting, challenging, and just plain FUN as they bump brushes while collaborating on their  creations! It combines each artist’s love for creating delicious food and beautiful tables in an effort to make life a bit more FUN for those invited to ‘the party.’

Carolyn spent years as a magazine editor and art teacher… but loves painting….especially unexpected, unpredictable subjects.  

Georgia had a successful catering and food design business for many years…but the love of tablescaping to create a unique environment for others is what makes her heart beat fast! 

HOSPITALITY is overflowing and interwoven not only through the paintings of Carolyn and Georgia but in the life heartbeat of their friendship. Each artist brings a unique style and  ambience to the table. Whimsical strokes meet an educated brush is perhaps the proper phrase.”

Sisters of the Brush and a Brother Paint Their Dreams Exhibition Featuring Works by Phyllis Boger, Patrick McGee, Barrie Foster, Ann Brown Thomason, and Jana Jones
February 12-March 31, 2025
Reception: February 23, 2-4 pm
On view in the Vistors Center

Artist Bios:

Phyllis Boger enjoys working with her 100 plus brushes in acrylics, alcohol inks, and dyes on silk. She has been known to ruin some of those brushes by using glue while collaging. Phyllis has an MFA in painting. She enjoys teaching and sketching while traveling.

Barrie Foster is a retired museum director and enjoys painting in all the mediums. She currently teaches art to the veterans at the VA hospital in Memphis, to senior citizens for Creative Aging, and to the 4H children in Tipton County. She especially loves painting en plein air.

Jana Jones is a native Memphian who spent her professional RN career in executive administration. She later returned to her artistic roots, working in watercolor,ink, and pastels. Her art encompasses a wide variety of styles and subject matter; she enjoys nothing more than putting thoughts and visions to paper and canvas. This "politically incorrect student of life" spends her time painting by the lake in the Ozark foothills. 

Ann Brown Thomason is a recently retired physician who loves to paint landscapes, water, and sky in oils. Much of her inspiration comes from her travel and the Forgotten Coast area in Florida.

Patrick McGee uses oil paint to capture what he sees in the world around him. From daydreams to brush strokes Patrick paints landscapes, cityscapes, and some surreal scapes and draws inspiration from the drama of daily life.

The Great Backyard Bird Count with Ibbi Pip
February 15, 2025
10 am-2 pm

Bird’s the word this February at the Garden! Join us on February 15 as we celebrate the annual Great Backyard Bird Count, an inter-organizational effort between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada, with our friend Ibbi Pip.

Attendees can assist the Garden record & count birds, enjoy a self-guided bird scavenger hunt, learn how to use the Merlin Bird ID App, and children will will be able to make pinecone bird feeders and will also receive binoculars to decorate & take home during this fun day your whole flock will leave raven about.

Family Friendly Presentation on Mississippi Flyaway Bird Migration with Fields Falcone
10:30 am

Fields Falcome, Stewardship Manager at the Overton Park Conservancy, will do a presentation on bird migration for the Mississippi Flyaway, which is appropriate for both children and adults.  Dependant on the weather, she will also be doing a short walk and talk to look for migrating birds.

Birds the Word Storytime with Ms. Kristen
11 am & 1 pm

Don’t miss this special bird-focused storytime with Ms. Kristen.

Guided Birding Walk with Horticulturist Adam Gann
1:30 pm

Join MBG Horticulturist Adam Gann on a guided walk through the Woodland. There you will learn how to find birds, how to tell birds apart, and how to identify them by color, markings, and calls! Grab your binoculars and come explore. This activity is recommended for ages 6 and up.

All activities are free with Garden admission, and no registration is required. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather

Learn more about this global effort at birdcount.org. 

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Ibbi Pip-Inspired Metal Clay Birdhouses with Brandy Boyd
February 16, 2025
10 am-4:30 pm

Channel your inner artist and celebrate the charm of nature with this birdhouse pendant & charms workshop, inspired by the animal-loving spirit of Ibbi Pip! In this hands-on class, you'll learn to craft exquisite birdhouse pendants using fine silver metal clay. Learn the techniques of texturing, modeling, coreless construction, and professional finishing to create stunning, heirloom-quality jewelry. All tools are provided, and your kit - a $55 (+tax) fee payable separately to the instructor the day of class- will include your materials for one birdhouse pendant and matching bird charms. Chains and neck cords will be available to purchase to complete your masterpiece. Don't miss this unique opportunity to turn silver clay into timeless treasures. 

Category: 

• Art Class 

Skill level: 

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• This class will teach you how to use metal clay. 

• You will create one birdhouse pendant and matching bird charms.

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers this 6.5-hour class with instruction. 

Things to know: 

• Please bring your own lunch or be prepared to order lunch off-site. 

• There is a class kit fee of $55 and is payable to Brandy Boyd /BMB Designs by cash, check, or credit card the day of class. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $65/Non-Members $80 (plus class kit fee)

• Register no later than February 13, 2025

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click here to register.

It's Getting Hot Out There: Risks and Solutions to Extreme Weather Lecture
February 19, 2025
5:30-6:30 pm

It's not your imagination -- temperatures are rising in Memphis, and you should be concerned about more than your garden. Increases in the frequency and intensity of heat, rainfall, drought, wildfires, and violent storms are posing concerns for the environment and our personal health and safety. Join us for this not-to-be-missed presentation that will deepen your understanding about what is happening around our planet, what we can expect in the decades ahead, and opportunities that offer hope for our future. Lauded by audiences across the country, C-Change Conversations has presented non-partisan, nothing-but-the-facts presentations to more than 22,500 attendees in 33 states and internationally.

Free with Garden admission. No registration required.

Oil Painting with Judy Nocifora 

Thursdays, February 20-March 13, 2025

9:30 am-12:30 pm

 

This four week series is a casual and stress-free class designed to explore and practice your own personal oil painting skills. Your instructor, Judy Nocifora, is an award-winning teacher and painter who has traveled and studied with some of today’s finest contemporary painters. You will bring in your own reference photos or ideas to paint, and following her individualized instruction, you leave the series with your own completed piece. Classes are appropriate for beginners just starting to paint, or those that have tried acrylic previously, as well as intermediate painters well-versed in oils. If you would like to see Judy’s artwork, check out her Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/judy.nocifora or Instagram @joypainting. Please check the supply list below, as supplies are required to be purchased for this class.   

 

Category:

• Art Class

 

Skill level:

• Entry - This class is recommended for students that have begun to paint and are looking for individualized instruction or have previously painted in acrylic and are looking to try oils. 

 

What to expect:

• Students will bring in their own reference photos or ideas to paint and follow guidance from the instructor. 

• Students should expect to finish their piece over the course of the four week class. 

 

What's included in this class:

• Instruction from artist Judy Nocifora over the course of four sessions at three hours per session.

• If you would like to see Judy’s artwork, check out her Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/judy.nocifora or Instagram @joypainting. 

 

Things to know:

• This class has a separate supply list that is required. Click here for the supply list of required materials. https://membg.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Nocifora-Supply-List.pdf

 

Pricing and registration deadline:

• MBG Members $210/Non-Members $250

• Register no later than February 17, 2025

 

Click to register.

Folklore Friends #1 with Becky Zee: Meet Squeegee
February 23, 2025
1-4 pm

You are guaranteed to have a fantastic time in this adults-only ceramics class! Becky Zee will teach you the basics of critter construction by showing you step-by-step instructions in the first of this three-part series. You will make the basic body forms and then have the opportunity to add eyes, teeth, horns, hair, legs or whatever else you want to personalize them. When you are happy with your new folklore friend, you’ll be able to finish it up with colorful clay paints, all in one sitting! All creations will be given a waterproof clear glaze and fired off-site. Finished friends will be ready for pickup two weeks after the class at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Class fee includes all supplies and tools needed to bring your folklore friend to life. All you need to bring is your imagination. 

Category: 

• Art Class 

Skill level:  

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• You will learn to create a clay creature through step-by-step instructions. 

• You will have clay paints to decorate your new friend with.  

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers all materials and tools needed for the class.  

• Three hours of instruction from artist Becky Zee, https://www.beckyzee.com/ 

Things to know: 

• This class is 18+.  

• The finished pieces will be returned to MBG for pickup after two weeks and attendees will be notified by the instructor. 

• Please make sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with clay or paint. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $65/Non-Members $75 

• Register no later than February 20, 2025

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.

Spirit Scarves: Transforming Found Objects into Wearable Art
February 27 & 28, 2025
12:30-3 pm 

Discover the art of transforming plain silk scarves into one-of-a-kind masterpieces using found objects! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn innovative dyeing techniques that incorporate everyday items such as rocks, marbles, golf balls, and more. By combining these objects with vibrant dyes, you'll create unique patterns and textures that are perfect for expressing your personal style. Whether you're looking to design wearable art or craft a striking display piece, this class is for all skill levels—no prior dyeing experience needed. All tools are provided, and the materials to create your scarf are included in the kit fee of $18 (+ tax), payable to the instructor day of. You'll leave with a beautifully dyed silk scarf and the knowledge to continue exploring this creative process at home. 

Category: 

• Art Class 

Skill level:  

• Entry – Everyone is welcome to join this class regardless of skill level. 

What to expect: 

• You will learn how to take plain silk scarves and dye beautiful patterns onto them using found objects. 

What's included in this class: 

• All tools are provided, and the materials to create your scarf are included in the kit fee of $18 (+ tax), payable to the instructor day of. 

• You will receive five hours of instruction over two days of class. 

Things to know: 

• Both days are required to participate in this class. 

• The kit fee is separate from your ticket price and is payable to the instructor. 

Pricing and registration deadline:  

• MBG Members $65/Non-Members $75 (plus class kit fee)

• Register no later than February 21, 2025 

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click here to register.

Rosa Sunfinger-Inspired Upcycled Planter Party (21+)
February 28, 2025
6:30-8:30 pm

Get ready to dig into creativity at this fun and unique 21+ planting party inspired by Rosa Sunfinger! Transform recycled household items into charming, one-of-a-kind planters that are as sustainable as they are stylish. Choose from an array of plants and select either two small planters or one medium planter as your base—each crafted from upcycled materials for a playful twist on sustainability. If you have any household items you would like to upcycle, you can also bring your own! 

  

All supplies are included, from plants and soil to pots and decorations, so all you need to bring are your favorite drinks and snacks to enjoy while you create. Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this hands-on experience is the perfect way to let your creativity bloom! 

 

Category: 

• Horticulture Class 

Skill level:  

• Entry - Everyone is welcome to join the class regardless of their skill level. 

What to expect: 

• Learn how to turn forgotten objects into upcycled planters for your home and garden. 

• Choose from 1 medium or 2 small objects, a selection of plants, and receive instruction on basic construction of your base, planting, and care for your new plants. 

What's included in this class: 

• Your cost covers all materials and tools needed for the class.  

• This class includes an hour of instruction. 

Things to know: 

• This class is 21+ and ID will be checked at arrival.  

• We encourage you to bring your own beverages, alcoholic or non, and your own snacks to enjoy throughout class. 

Pricing and registration deadline: 

• MBG Members $35/Non-Members $45

• Register no later than February 21, 2025

This program is inspired by Thomas Dambo’s TROLLS: Save the Humans Presented by International Paper. Learn more about this larger-than-life seasonal exhibition at membg.org/trolls.

Click to register.