Read Sophia's letter about the Garden’s new 10-year strategic plan. Using the theme “Keep Growing,” the plan will deepen the Garden’s impact across all program areas and audiences, broaden its recognition, and improve the health of the natural world for present and future generations.

Click here to read the plan.




Bonsai Silhouette Show President’s Circle Preview Party

Thursday, January 28, 6 to 8 p.m.
$35 per person

Don’t miss this magical evening, exclusively for President’s Circle members. Join bonsai curator Ivan Watters on an informal tour of this one-of-a-kind exhibition while enjoying traditional Japanese music, festive refreshments, and hors d’oeuvres.

 register online  or call the President’s Circle hotline,
(847) 835-6925.




Antiques & Garden Fair

Friday – Sunday, April 16 – 18,
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Preview Night, Thursday, April 15,
6 to 10 p.m.

The 10th Antiques and Garden Fair returns to the Garden in 2010! The Fair will rebloom at the Garden with a fresh design that will arouse your senses and inspire you with new ideas for your garden and home.

President's Circle Tour to Napa
September 29 – October 3, 2010
Exclusive travel opportunity to the Napa Valley! More information coming soon…



Tu B’Shevat

Sunday, January 31, 1 to 4 p.m.
Free Family Activities, Regenstein Center

In celebration of Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish Festival of Trees, special family activities will be offered in partnership with the National Council of Jewish Women, Chicago North Shore Section. A variety of fun, educational drop-in activities will focus on the joy trees bring to the world. Families can explore trees in the Greenhouses, plant a seedling to take home, enjoy a reading corner filled with books about trees and Tu B’Shevat, and more.

Botanica Magnifica: Stories of the World’s Most Extraordinary Flowers and Plants

Friday, March 19, 7 to 9 p.m.

Dr. Jonathan Singer and Dr. W. John Kress will visit to share their landmark collaboration, Botanica Magnifica: Stories of the World’s Most Extraordinary Flowers. A unique blend of art and science, this program will offer an in-depth look at masterpieces of photographic art and a rare sneak peek into Myanmar, a biodiversity hot spot.





Please click on each of the photos above for information on fun seasonal events at the Garden.



While a new 10-year strategic plan finds us focusing on the Garden’s future this month, I want to thank our members, donors, and corporate partners for their loyalty and generous support last year. Not only did the Garden enjoy record-breaking attendance and membership sales, contributions to the Annual Fund—despite the adverse economy—were the second highest amount ever. Thank you for making 2009 a record year!

Every day, it is an honor and privilege to serve the Chicago Botanic Garden. Your help makes it possible for people to enjoy beautiful gardens, and to live better, healthier, and more satisfying lives. Please know I would love to hear from you anytime.

With warm regards,

Sophia Siskel
President & CEO
Chicago Botanic Garden