Finally, May!

As spring unfolds, the Garden flourishes, with visitors of all ages enjoying the warmer temperatures, programs, classes, and breathtaking beauty. The tulips are at their peak, and the flowering trees—serviceberry, lilac, and crabapple—are filling the Garden with color every day. This is the moment to visit the Chicago Botanic Garden—8 a.m. to sunset!

Please click here to read Sophia's letter in full.

Going Green as a Family

Saturday, May 30, 9 – 11 a.m.

President’s Circle members and their families are invited to a special planting project. Join Rick Belding, the Chicago Botanic Garden’s fruit and vegetable horticulturist, to assist in the creation of a natural area in the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden. Click here to view the invitation.

Reservations are required. E-mail or call (847) 835-6925 by May 23.

Tenth Annual Gardens of Distinction

Sunday, July 19, 2 – 4 p.m.
or 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

This is the President’s Circle signature event. You are invited to view one of Chicago’s most highly praised East Lake Shore Drive rooftop gardens. This magnificent garden was designed by the owner and Maria Smithburg, the noted Harvard-educated landscape architect and philanthropist.

Invitations will be mailed in June. Please save the date. Space is limited.

Rick Bayless’ City Garden Tour and Private Dinner at Topolobampo

Thursday, August 27, 5:30 – 9 p.m.

Enjoy an exclusive garden tour with cocktails, led by celebrity chef Rick Bayless of Frontera Grill and Topolobampo, followed by a sumptuous private dinner at Frontera Grill. Rick takes great pride in his city garden that provides many of the herbs and vegetables used at his award-winning restaurants featuring regional Mexican food.

Space is limited. Please click here to RSVP.

A Rare Affair: A Collector's Auction
of Rather Unique Plants

Friday, June 12, 6 p.m.

Hosted by the Woman's Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society, includes cocktails and an elegant dinner. Proceeds benefit the Garden's science initiative.

Reservations required; tickets are $250 per person.
Call (847) 835-8375 to make a reservation.

Summer Dinner Dance

Friday, June 26, 7 p.m.

The Chicago Botanic Garden presents the sixth annual Summer Dinner Dance. Cocktails for the black-tie gala will be held on the Esplanade; dinner and dancing to the music of the Stu Hirsh Orchestra follow in the Rose Garden.

Reservations required; tickets are $600 per person.
Call (847) 835-6944 for information and to make a reservation.

On behalf of the staff and board of the Chicago Botanic Garden, I am so grateful for your support. You help us bring joy to people’s lives and save the planet by saving the plants. Thank you so very much. Please know I would love to hear from you at any time with your thoughts. Every day, it is an honor and privilege to serve the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Sophia Siskel
President & CEO
Chicago Botanic Garden