Explore our hands-on learning stations throughout the Garden to experience bird migration, examine animal tracks, ID fallen leaves, and meet some animal friends from The Schiele Museum to learn all about hibernation.

Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 1:00 p.m.
The Farmhouse Garden Center at Stowe
$40 per person

Remember summer's vibrancy and create your own one-of-a-kind piece of thoughtful, hand-crafted fall decor by preserving a dried butterfly sample from our Butterfly Bungalow! You'll design a stunning framed display in this guided workshop: using 8" x 8" shadowboxes and decorative supplies, you'll arrange beautiful, ethically sourced butterfly specimens to create a completely unique work of art, perfect for your home or as a gift!

All supplies are included (but if you've got a favorite bit of decorative paper, cloth, or dried flowers you'd like to include in your piece, we welcome them!) No prior crafting experience required, just bring your creativity and an eye for detail!

Please use this link to submit your payment for the vendor registration fee at Daniel Stowe Conservancy. When payment is final, you will receive a receipt and a "ticket" for the fee, which you may save for your own records.

If you have any questions about the vendor event or need assistance, please contact Kate Graham at kgraham@danielstoweconservancy.org. Thank you!

Sign up to create a Scarecrow for Scarecrow Hollow

Registration ends on September 3, 2025

Sign up to create a Tree for our Community Tree Exhibit.

Registration ends on October 31, 2025

On Stage Concerts presents Jazz at the Garden: Holiday Edition!
Saturday, November 22 | TWO SHOWS | 5:00 PM & 7:30 PM
Inside the Great Hall at Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Join us for a magical evening of smooth jazz and sparkling lights at On Stage Concerts' 4th annual Jazz at the Garden: Holiday Edition! Celebrate the season with two live performances by acclaimed guitarist Adam Hawley and his band-- one of the most dynamic forces in contemporary jazz, with 18 Billboard #1 hits to his name! Happy Hawley-days!

As a special bonus, guests will enjoy an exclusive sneak preview of the renowned holiday light display at Holidays at the Garden. Experience dazzling miles of a million lights, open only to concertgoers on November 22nd before the public season begins.

🍽 Check back later this year for additional food order options! Our bars will be open for cash and credit sales with holiday beverages and snacks, as well as grab-and-go food options from our Big Leaf Café! Outside food and alcohol is not permitted at the Garden.

Bring your holiday spirit and kick off the season with this unforgettable night of music and magic!

About Adam Hawley
Guitarist, producer, and composer Dr. Adam Hawley has become a powerhouse in the world of smooth jazz. Discovered by Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire, Adam launched his career on the Kalimba Music label and now leads his own imprint, MBF Entertainment. With seven albums and an astounding 18 #1 Billboard singles, his accolades include Billboard Song of the Year (2020 & 2022), Mediabase Artist of the Year (2024), and the #1 album in sales (Nielsen, 2020). From studio to stage, Adam continues to inspire with his vibrant, groove-driven sound.

Pricing

• Tickets: $59

Members save 15% on tickets! Be sure to log in with your membership-associated email address to see your discount at checkout!

Alcohol Policy: For the safety of all our guests and the garden, outside food and alcohol are strictly prohibited at all events. All bags are subject to search by security. As required by North Carolina law, guests are not permitted to bring outside alcohol onto the premises. Violations of this policy may result in removal from the event without refund. Thank you for your understanding!

Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 1:00 p.m.
The Farmhouse Garden Center at Stowe
$15 per person

Create your very own unique, handmade fall décor in this crafting workshop! Using medium-sized birdhouse gourds, beautiful autumnal dried flowers in a variety of shades, and guidance from a Stowe staff member, you’ll design a special nature-inspired gourd to take home. Use it as a festive table centerpiece, or a bit of fall flair on the patio! Perfect for brightening your porch, garden or any indoor space this season!

All supplies are included. No prior crafting experience is needed; just bring your creativity and eye for design!

September 26  |  Select 6 or 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.  |  $35
The Trailhead Store at The Village at Stowe

Raise a glass to an unforgettable evening as we bring wine country to Belmont’s backyard at Vino in the Village. Set against the peaceful trails and waterside sunsets of The Village at Stowe, this golden-hour experience is the perfect chance to sip, stroll and unwind in nature.

Your ticket includes access to three tasting stations featuring nine carefully selected varietals, nestled into the early fall landscape. Taste and mingle as the evening turns amber over our charming garden courtyard or shimmering ponds.

For the perfect pairing, stop in our Trailhead Store to purchase charcuterie through our Vino Bundle: a box of hand-selected bites lovingly arranged and a glass of our house wine, together for just $15.

While you’re here, take time to explore The Village at Stowe—home to our Trailhead Store, the Farmhouse Garden Center, a newly-reopened dog park, and tons of unique scenic outdoor spaces designed for relaxation.

What could be better than enjoying fine wine, good company, and a breathtaking sunset at Stowe?

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Join us at Daniel Stowe Conservancy for Rooted in Knowledge: Lunch ’n Learn, a monthly series designed to nourish both your body and your mind. Over the lunch hour, enjoy engaging talks from Conservancy staff, guest experts, and community partners as we explore topics that connect to our mission of preserving natural resources, celebrating the botanical world, and inspiring environmental stewardship.

Guests may choose from two ticket options:

• Program-Only Ticket – includes admission to the presentation
• Program + Lunch Ticket* – includes admission to the presentation along with a salad, sandwich, or wrap with chips and a drink from Big Leaf Café
• *While we do our best, not all dietary needs can be accommodated. If you’d like more information about our food options before purchasing your ticket, please reach out to mlong@danielstoweconservancy.org.

Come hungry for food and knowledge—and leave rooted in new ideas.

**Tickets for this event do not include admission into the botanical gardens. General Admission rates will apply if you choose to explore the gardens before or after the program.** 

Fall 2025 Schedule:

Thursday, September 11 - Fall into Planting: The Best Season for Planting in the Piedmont

Join us for a hands-on lecture that digs into why fall is the ideal time to plant in the North Carolina Piedmont. Lead by our Curator, Karen Kottkamp, she will be sharing the science behind fall planting—from the balance of soil and air temperatures to the advantages for root growth—and highlight plants that thrive when planted in cooler months.

Participants will learn practical tips, common myths and mistakes to avoid, and how to set their fall plantings up for success. With live plants for demonstration in the Levine Pavilion, you’ll have the chance to see, touch, and even get your hands dirty. The session will conclude with a Q&A and a few plant giveaways for lucky attendees.

Start your morning with creativity and connection at Coffee + Crafts, a recurring class held at Daniel Stowe Conservancy. Each session features a new hands-on craft project, guided by instructors, with all materials provided—no prior experience needed.

Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee, latte, or tea from the Trailhead Store as you craft, relax, and mingle with fellow participants in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to spark your creativity and begin your day on a bright, inspired note.

Classes will take place in The Village at Stowe - group meetup will occur at Trailhead store each time and disperse to class location from there.

*Ticket purchase includes 1 non-alcoholic beverage from Trailhead Store, class admission, instruction, and materials (unless otherwise noted)
**Refund Policy: Full refunds are available for cancellations made up to 48 hours before the start of the program. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the class are non-refundable.

***Due to the nature of the projects, Coffee + Crafts is best suited for ages 16 and up. With the exception of the November Classes - Corn Husk Dolls and Botanical Ornaments which are suitable for ages 8 and up with parent/guardian supervision and assistance.

2025 Class Schedule:

September 14 - Pressed Flower Book Upcycling
Give old books a second life by turning their pages into blooming works of art! In this hands-on craft, we’ll use pressed flowers and creative techniques to upcycle worn or unwanted books into beautiful keepsakes. It’s the perfect blend of storytelling and nature — where petals meet pages in a one-of-a-kind creation.

September 21 - Decoupage Clay Dish
Hand-make a simple clay pinch pot/dish and give it personality by decoupaging with patterned napkins and paper. Perfect as a jewelry holder, catch-all dish, or a one-of-a-kind decorative piece!

October 5 - Pressed Flower Candlesticks + Open Craft Time
Learn how to decorate candlesticks with pressed flowers for a beautiful, nature-inspired touch to your home décor. After the guided project, stick around for open craft time — bring your own project or explore new ideas in a relaxed, creative space.

October 19 -  Mini Decorative Brooms
Celebrate the cozy charm of fall by crafting your own mini decorative broom adorned with seasonal charms! These decorative keepsakes are perfect for bringing a touch of autumn warmth to your home.

November 2 - Corn Husk Dolls
Step back in time and craft charming corn husk dolls by hand! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn traditional techniques to create your own whimsical figures — a fun, tactile way to connect with history and celebrate handmade artistry.

November 16 - Botanical Print Ornaments
Bring the beauty of nature into your holiday décor! In this hands-on class, you’ll create unique ornaments featuring pressed flowers and botanical prints — perfect for gifting or adding a personal touch to your tree.

December 7 - Keepsake Cottages: Gingerbread House
Bring the charm of the holidays to life without the crumbs! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft your own gingerbread-style house using durable materials — perfect as a festive keepsake to display year after year.

December 21 - Winter Miniatures: Needle Felting Workshop
Bring tiny winter scenes to life with needle felting! In this hands-on class, you’ll craft miniature figures and décor perfect for the season — a fun, creative way to add handmade charm to your winter home.

Guide, Angie Stegall is an ANFT Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Certified Martha Beck Wayfinder Life Coach, and a Certified Sparketype ™ Advisor. She’s an Executive LIFE Coach who works with Founders, business owners, and other executive-level leaders. Angie is also the author of five books, including “Notes from Nature” and “Make Some Room.”

Join Angie on this journey to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world around you. Forest Bathing (also known as the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku) invites you to explore the natural world using your five senses. This is not a hike or naturalist walk; it’s a meditative, guided wander in nature. And there’s a growing body of scientific knowledge that demonstrates the benefits of spending time in nature like this, as a wellness practice and as an effective way to manage stress. Benefits include:

· Boosting your immune system through inhaling phytoncides, essential oils emitted by trees, plus other beneficial microscopic particles that are stirred up as you walk

· Reducing blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate

· Reducing stress, improving mood, increasing energy, and improving sleep

· Increased capacity for empathy and kindness (self and others)

· Increased ability to think strategically (“Executive Thinking”)

· Increased ability to think more creatively (“Original Thoughts”)

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking on uneven surfaces along dirt or gravel covered trails and for sitting down on grass, pine needles, or bare dirt. Bring a hat, sunglasses, layers, or rain gear. Please check the weather as we forest bathe in sun, rain, wind, or snow. Sunscreen and/or bug spray might be appropriate, too. Bring your own water and snacks if

needed and a small backpack to carry these personal items. Your guide will have small sit pads available for you to use or you can bring your own yoga mat, towel, or blanket.

Forest Bathing Testimonials:

“I'm sleeping better. Prior to the Forest Bathing experience, I had not been sleeping well. Since the experience, I have had some of the best sleep that I can remember.”

“The time our guide Angie took to center us before we went into the forest. I loved the outward facing circle exercise. It helped me clear my mind and practice listening and looking before we began "bathing". Also, she answered my questions before I asked: about pace, distance between participants, and no talking throughout.”

“I was energized and thrilled to have such an atypical morning. This fueled me for the remainder of the day, and helped me fall asleep quickly, and a bit earlier than usual. Wha

Join authors Palmer McIntyre and Hollis Oberlies for a meet and greet in the great outdoors! Have an open talk about hiking and locations in their book Trails & Treats: A Hiker and Runner’s Guide to Great Trails and Good Eats in North Carolina. Discover hidden gems in the Charlotte area and beyond, get ideas for day trips and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts!

Start with a snack and grab a coffee, chai or your favorite beverage from the Trailhead Store as you talk and mingle. Books will be on sale for signing by the authors!

After the signing, take a guided walk along our trails to experience the beauty of nature firsthand. Learning about native plants, local ecology and the enrichment "mini adventures" can bring to your daily life.

Trails & Treats is a colorful guidebook which features 30 trails and 70+ local eateries across the mountains, Triad and Charlotte regions, plus healthy snacks and recipes to keep you fueled on your adventures!

This talk, signing and hike is free of charge, with additional purchase options for beverages and books available in the Trailhead Store. Free pre-registration below is appreciated.

Join award-winning artist Heidi Nisbett of Sketching Summits, the creative force behind our garden’s stunning murals and Best in Show winner at the Gaston County Art Guild’s 2025 A Natural View, for an inspiring outdoor painting workshop in the Levine Pavilion.

Heidi will guide participants through painting some of North Carolina’s native flower species often spotted along the trails, offering tips and techniques to help your creativity bloom. This class welcomes all skill levels, from beginners picking up a brush for the first time to experienced artists seeking fresh inspiration. Children are also encouraged to join (recommended for ages 6 and over.) All materials will be provided.

Bring your creativity and enjoy a hands-on experience creating art surrounded by the beauty of the garden!

(Tip for maximizing your day: after taking a break to roam the garden and enjoy a bite from our café), you can meet Heidi again at 3 P.M. to hear stories from hiking the Appalachian Trail!) 

Registration is free. Please pre-register below to account for material totals.

Please note that garden admission for September 20's Trails and Tunes will be required for non-members. Members may check in at the front desk. With admission, you'll enjoy all of the trail offerings throughout the day, and we invite you to stay for a show from David Childers and the Serpents in the evening!

Step into the magic of the Conservancy after dark with The Moonlight Series, a curated collection of evening programs that celebrate the beauty of nature under the moonlight. Each event invites guests to explore gardens, discover nocturnal wildlife, and enjoy special activities that bring the nighttime landscape to life.

Whether wandering among moonlit blooms, learning from expert presentations, or connecting with fellow nature enthusiasts, The Moonlight Series offers a serene and inspiring way to experience the outdoors after sunset.

Topics, themes and ticket prices will vary each date.

Please note that tickets are required to attend these events to maintain our capacity limits.

**Refund Policy: Full refunds are available for cancellations made up to 48 hours before the start of the program. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the program are non-refundable.

***With its themes, activities and setting the Moonlight Series is best enjoyed by participants ages 8 and older (unless noted otherwise on the individual programs).

 Upcoming Moonlight Series Events 

September 14 - Creatures of the Night - 7:30pm - 8:30pm @ The Trailhead Store

Step into the woods after sunset and discover the secret world of animals that thrive in the twilight. On this guided walk, we’ll journey to a quiet spot beneath the night sky where our naturalist will share fascinating insights about crepuscular and nocturnal creatures. Learn how these animals have adapted to life in the dark, and experience the forest in a whole new way.

Only red-light flashlights/headlamps will be allowed on this walk to keep from disturbing the forest at night. We will have a few available to borrow but encourage participants that may have one already to bring it with them. We will be traversing uneven terrain in some parts (the trails at Stowe).

October 7 - Full Moon Rituals + Celebrations - 7:00pm - 8:30pm @ The Gardens at Stowe

Gather under the glow of the full moon to explore the traditions, stories, and practices inspired by its light. Together, we’ll learn about cultural celebrations and simple rituals that honor the moon’s cycles, then take time to reflect and connect with nature in this shared experience beneath the night sky.

***This program is recommended for ages 16 and up. 

October 24 - Campfire Spooky Stories - 6:30pm - 8:00pm @ The Trailhead Store

Settle in by the fire as night falls and enjoy an evening of spine-tingling tales and eerie folklore. Surrounded by the crackle of the flames and the dark woods beyond, we’ll share classic spooky stories that capture the spirit of the season. Perfect for a crisp night under the stars!

***Some stories may have a horror component and may not be suitable for younger ages.