July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We’re celebrating by showcasing the history we know best: gardens.
Flip through the first known American cookbook. Visit outdoor garden displays and explore your cultural connections to different plants. Discover how gardens reflect the resilience of the American people, and celebrate the ways they create and sustain community.
Stop by the Regenstein Center to see the main exhibition. Find details on special tours, artistic activities, and learning opportunities below. All are free with admission.
Featured Events
Join a walking tour
Monday – Friday, June 8 – September 25
11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m.
Join a guided walking tour of the Garden and get a closer look at the Heritage Garden, Fruit & Vegetable Garden, and more. This tour features America Grows: 250 Years of Garden Stories. You’ll also hear about the Garden’s history and development, including the Skokie River Corridor and current initiatives.
Free with admission; no registration required, 45 minutes and covers 0.59 mile.
Create LEGO® garden
Wednesday – Sunday
noon – 4 p.m.
Lenhardt Library
What’s the garden of your dreams? Create your own garden using your imagination + LEGO® bricks. Botanical-themed models designed by local artists Daniel Olvera and Alysa Kirkpatrick will inspire your designs.
Free with admission; no registration required; designed for all ages.
Note: LEGO® creations will stay at the Garden
Origami Rose
June 5 – September 27
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Krehbiel Gallery and Design Studio
Origami rose tutorial and featured installation by Ishita Gupta. Origami paper will be available throughout the exhibition. Follow the video instructions anytime.
Artist Events
Free with admission; no registration; for all ages.
Garfield Park Conservatory Panel Discussion
Wednesday, July 8
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Garfield Park Conservatory
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