KENNETT SQUARE, PA – For those seeking a lush escape from winter’s chill, Longwood Gardens invites you to experience the breathtaking splendor of its Winter Wonder event, running through March 23, 2025. Located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, the event promises an extraordinary exploration of vibrant gardens under glass, offering a perfect sanctuary for horticulture enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
A Showcase of World-Class Gardens
At the heart of Winter Wonder lies Longwood’s new 32,000-square-foot West Conservatory, which dazzles visitors with a Mediterranean-inspired garden in full bloom. The stunning crystalline roofline overhead allows natural light to pour in, illuminating exotic plants such as vivid California-lilacs, striking pincushion flowers, and aromatic heart-leaf pelargonium. These thoughtfully curated plantings evoke the warmth and beauty of a Mediterranean climate, offering a vivid contrast to the season’s muted grays.
Nearby, the preserved Cascade Garden enchants with its rainforested serenity. Enclosed within a 2,800-square-foot standalone glasshouse, this masterpiece features 16 waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tranquil haven. Meanwhile, the East and Main Conservatories continue to inspire with their exquisite seasonal displays, complementing the majesty of the winter outdoor landscapes.
Seasonal Botanical Marvels
Throughout the event, the conservatories present a rotating palette of colorful blooms. Visitors in January will enjoy fiery kangaroo-paws, white cyclamen, and golden scarlet-plumes. February transitions into cooler tones with blue-flax and coral-hued globe-mallows. By March, bold freesia, poppy-flowered anemones, and Portuguese squill usher in the promise of spring. Draped throughout the conservatories, baskets of cape-primrose add an ethereal touch to this botanical wonderland.
A Feast for the Senses
Elevate your Winter Wonder visit by indulging in culinary excellence at 1906, Longwood Gardens’ fine dining restaurant. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the restaurant, helmed by Chef George Murkowicz, offers a menu rooted in seasonality and sustainability. Special Valentine’s Weekend dining hours from February 14 to 16 will feature an exclusive black truffle prix fixe menu alongside signature selections, making it an ideal choice for a romantic outing.
The Café, open Wednesday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., provides an array of ready-to-eat options for guests seeking casual fare.
Enriching Educational Opportunities
Horticulture enthusiasts can deepen their knowledge through Winter Wonder’s engaging educational programs. The monthly Science Series, included with Gardens admission, features captivating talks such as “Longwood’s Legacy of Sustainability” on January 18 and “Controlled Burns in Meadow Management” on March 8.
For a more hands-on experience, Longwood’s Continuing Education offerings include workshops on incorporating Mediterranean plants into your garden, black-and-white flower photography, and urban sketching in the West Conservatory. Each session is designed to inspire creativity and cultivate a deeper understanding of botanical art and science.
Live Performances in Intimate Surroundings
Music lovers will find delight in a series of live performances set against the lush backdrop of the Conservatory. Highlights include organist Clair Rozier on February 23, the Danish trio Dreamers’ Circus on March 5, and a performance by the Kennett Symphony on March 23. These concerts promise an unforgettable blend of world-class music and botanical beauty.
Plan Your Visit
Winter Wonder is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special extended hours during Valentine’s Weekend. Admission prices are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and college students, and $13 for youth.
Whether you are captivated by the vibrant colors of Mediterranean flora, inspired by educational programs, or enchanted by live performances, Longwood Gardens’ Winter Wonder is a celebration of seasonal beauty and discovery not to be missed. Prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of one of the world’s greatest gardens this winter. For more information, visit longwoodgardens.org.
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