(West Palm Beach, FL – November 19, 2024) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be topping off 2024 with 25 healthy and horticultural classes and events throughout the month of December, ranging from holiday happy to humorously “hoppy” with the popular, frog- Ribbit the Exhibit II.

 

“We are inviting friends and families to celebrate the holidays at Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden—Mounts Botanical Garden, a beautiful, tranquil, 20-acre oasis located just minutes from the hustle-and-bustle of downtown West Palm,” says Mounts Interim Director Misty Stoller.

 

“In addition to taking advantage of our numerous and informative horticultural classes and workshops, visitors can enjoy our multiple special exhibits – such as our deliciously whimsical Ribbit the Exhibit II, featuring 18 larger-than-life frog sculptures at work and play, and the always awesome Moai at Mounts,” she adds. 

 

Mounts Botanical Garden is open to the Public Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (with last entry at 3 pm). Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students and military with IDs; $13 for ages 6 to 17; and free for children under age 6, Mounts members, and RAP (reciprocal program) members.

 

December 1

New Moon Cacao Ceremony and Sound Immersion Experience

with Casa Rituals

Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm 

$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Step into the tranquil Herb Garden of Well-Being and immerse yourself in the healing energy of cacao. Beneath the shade of the garden’s sacred cacao tree, you will connect with the transformative power of this revered plant, while aligning your spirit with the new moon’s energies to set heartfelt intentions. Your journey begins with a ceremonial smudging and blessing, designed to cleanse and release the weight of daily stresses, preparing you for the sacred experience ahead. Next, you will be offered a cup of rich, ceremonial-grade cacao as we guide you through a heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. This sacred ritual will help relax your mind, unlock your heart chakra, and open you to new intentions and healing energy. Following the ceremony, you'll transition into a peaceful Yoga Nidra meditation, leading you into a deep state of relaxation. The experience culminates in a sound healing session, where the resonant tones of gongs, crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments will envelop you in soothing vibrations, allowing you to restore balance and harmonize body, mind, and soul.

Note: Please bring your yoga mat and blanket. Please no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and no caffeine 3 hours before and after the event.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 3, 10, 17

Watercolor at the Garden

with Carl Stoveland  

Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.

Join artist Carl Stoveland and share the love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring your pencils, pens, paints. Sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Some experience preferred. True newbies should consider the beginners class. Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants. Subjects will be chosen by instructor with assistance from class.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 3, 10, 17

Beginner Watercolor

with Carl Stoveland

Tuesdays, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm
$20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults. 

If you have always wanted to try watercolor but been overwhelmed by it then this is the class for you. Geared toward novice watercolor enthusiasts, this class will focus on the basics, including a new technique and a simple painting each week. Join artist Carl Stoveland and share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring pencils, pens, paints, sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants. 

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 4

Palm Beach County Residents Day

Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry at 3 pm)

Palm Beach County residents receive FREE admission to the Garden on the first Wednesday of every month. Visitors must show proof of residency for entry. Admission for non-residents: $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students, and military with ID; $13 for ages 6-17; free for children under age 6.

 

December 7

“Hidden Wild” – Film Viewing with Filmmaker Benji Studt

Environmental Resource Management, Palm Beach County

Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm 

Free for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; limited to 100 participants; Tickets are nonrefundable. 

“Hidden Wild” takes viewers on a journey into the eco beauty of The Palm Beaches with three local students – Noah, Kiana, and Kourtez – following expedition leader and conservation photographer Alex to witness our most scenic hidden landscapes. Follow along as they pedal and hike through the swamp, paddle down a wild and scenic river, encounter an underwater world filled with life, see panoramic vistas atop a historic lighthouse, and go to the beach. Come with them to places everyone can explore when visiting the Palm Beaches. 

Note: Stay after the film for light refreshments and a meet and greet with the filmmaker.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 7

Orchids are for Everyone Potting Workshop:

Catasetum Orchids

Saturday, 10:00 am to 11:15 am 

$10 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

Free for Tropical Orchid Society Members with proof of Orchid Society Membership (shown on the day of class) – please register at www.mounts.org to save your spot.

Registration is required; classes are nonrefundable. Class size is limited 35 Adults

Join us for an interactive workshop conducted by members of the board of the Tropical Orchid Society.  Each workshop will begin with a brief introduction followed by specific growing advice for the month followed by repotting demonstrations and Q & A.  Attendees may bring one orchid to repot and the media and pot or mount they prefer to use. Orchid Potting Workshops are held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center, on the first Saturday of every month. (Upcoming on January 4: Orchids and Cold Weather).

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 7, 24, 21, 28

Tai Chi at Mounts Botanical Garden

Saturdays, 9:00 am to 11:00 am

$20 members; $25 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).

Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

• Class 1: Tai Chi Intermediate Class

9:00 am to 10:10 am

This class is for those who have learned the basic Sun Style Tai Chi Forms and wish to pursue advanced Sun Style Forms. Lessons will be multi-faceted, addressing not only the external execution of the Forms, but more importantly, deepening the internal dimensions of the Forms, such as: magnifying the Qi (Life Energy) and incorporating the Internal Principles of Tai Chi: Song (loosening), Jing (mental quietude), Chen (sinking of dan-tien), and Huo (agility) which are vital to one's well-being and healing.

In addition, we will explore another Tai Chi Form, the Yang Style.

Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.

• Class 2: Tai Chi Beginner Class

10:00 am to 11:15 am

This class is designed for those new to Tai Chi or those curious about Tai Chi. You will learn basic Tai Chi principles and moves, called Forms. The primary goal is to improve your overall health and well-being, the use of mindfulness and balance through the Forms are thought to open the doors to Health and Serenity. Tai Chi is excellent for those who want a gentle, but effective exercise.

Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 8

Dogs’ Day in the Garden

Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry at 3 pm)

FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $20 for nonmember adults; $18 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $13 for children 6-17. Ticket includes full Garden admission.

Note: Dogs are FREE for Mounts members and $5 for nonmembers.

This dog-and-family-friendly monthly event is held throughout the Garden. Bring your favorite pooch and enjoy a relaxed garden stroll. There are many great spots to capture family photos for posting online with #mountsbotanicalgarden.

Guidelines:

+ Non-retractable leashes only; retractable leashes are not permitted.

+ No more than one dog per adult will be admitted.

+ Rabies vaccination must be current.

+ Visitors should bring their own water and treats for the puppies.

For details, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/

 

December 8

Tiny Trees, Big Cheer: Succulent Edition

with Michael Spencer

Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

$45 for members; $55 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Join us for a delightful hands-on workshop where you’ll create your miniature holiday tree entirely out of succulents. In this festive class, participants will learn the art of arranging colorful, drought-tolerant succulents into charming tabletop trees—perfect as centerpieces or gifts. Led by our succulent expert, Michael Spencer, this beginner-friendly workshop will cover everything from succulent care to design tips for making your tiny tree beautiful and long-lasting. All materials will be provided, including vibrant succulent cuttings, decorative moss, and festive accents to personalize your creation. You'll leave with your own “living” holiday tree that brings cheer well beyond the season. Whether you're a plant lover or just looking to get into the holiday spirit, this is the perfect way to celebrate sustainably.

Note: Refreshments and holiday music are included.

For details, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 8

Awakening Hearts:

A Cacao Ceremony & Sound Immersion Experience

with Casa Rituals

Sunday, 10:00 am to 11:30 am

$30 for members; $40 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Upon arrival, participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from their day-to-day life. Then they will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to participate in our sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax you, open your heart chakra, and help you to be receptive to the healing you will experience. Finally, you'll relax into Yoga Nidra meditation and deep sound healing. You will be immersed in the healing energies of the gong, crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments. 

Note: Please bring a yoga mat or blanket, and do not drink alcohol on the day of the ceremony or consume caffeine three hours before and after the event.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 14

Plants on the Edge: Littoral Zone Tour & Presentation

with UF/IFAS Agent Kara Krueger

Saturday, 10:00 am to 11:30 am

Free for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 45 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Discover the fascinating world of plants thriving at the delicate boundary between land and water in this immersive class that will take participants on a deep dive into the unique ecosystem of the littoral zone, the region where aquatic and terrestrial environments meet. Discover the remarkable diversity of plant species that have adapted to thrive in waterlogged environments. These resilient plants play an essential role in maintaining the health of ecosystems by filtering pollutants, stabilizing soil, and supporting biodiversity. Expert Horticulturist, Kara Krueger will share her knowledge on how littoral plants manage fluctuating water levels, withstand erosion, and support biodiversity. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or an ecology lover, you'll gain insight into how these hardy plants can be incorporated into home gardens, rain gardens, or natural water features. Tour of Mount’s wetland areas included. Join us to cultivate your understanding of edge ecosystems and how to use these resilient plants to enhance natural and man-made landscapes. Perfect for plant lovers, conservationists, and eco-gardeners.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 14, 15, 29

Forest Bathing: Nature Therapy Immersion and Tea Ceremony

with Certified Nature Therapy Guide Kathy Andio

Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Forest Bathing, also known as “Nature Therapy,” is an immersive experience in nature that gives you an opportunity to reset your outlook on life and have an encounter with the nature in a way that you have never experienced before. It is a sensory practice that takes you away from your phone, computer and social media and back to what your body yearns for…..a connection with nature.  A sense of peace. A sense of relaxation. A sense of being in the present moment. It provides the perfect time to become a human “be” ing instead of a human “do” ing! During a Forest Bathing experience, you will be invited to slow down and reconnect with nature’s perfect balance using your senses to see the sunlight playing through the leaves, smell the flowers, and feel and hear the gentle wind whispering to you to return to your native roots and discover your deeper self. Your nature encounter concludes with a tea ceremony to connect with other like-minded nature lovers. Forest Bathing has been scientifically proven to boost immune strength, lift depression, reduce stress, and improve sleep. But beyond these physiological changes, this contemplative experience will show you how important it is for your well-being to take time in nature daily! 

Note: Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start time. Bring a chair or yoga mat.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

December 15

Plant This, Not That: A Native Pant Introduction Encore Class

with Ryan Levengood
Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
$15 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 25 adults; classes are nonrefundable.

In this talk, participants will learn the benefits of Florida native plants and ideas for replacing some common landscape plants with visually similar native species. A beautiful garden can be created to please people, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Tour included.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 15

Last Full Moon of 2024 Release Ceremony with Sacred Cacao & Sound Bath

with Casa Rituals

Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm 

$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) 

Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being and explore the healing power of sound and intention amidst the transformative ambiance of our Full Moon Flower Release Ceremony. This serene gathering takes place in a beautifully adorned garden, filled with aromatic flowers and lush greenery. At Casa Rituals, our philosophy is centered on infusing mindful intention into the busy rhythms of modern life. We achieve this by creating a harmonious space that integrates sound healing and sacred rituals, fostering internal peace and alignment. Upon your arrival, a ceremonial smudging and blessing will be offered, creating a space to release the daily burdens. Following this, you'll be presented with a cup of the finest Ceremonial Cacao leading this sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao serves to relax, unlock the heart chakra, and make one more receptive to the forthcoming healing experience. Finally, visitors will gently transition into a Yoga Nidra meditation and a deep sound healing session. During this time, they will become fully immersed in the soothing and restorative energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments.

Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.  

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

December 21

Breaking the Barriers to Orchid Growing:

Bifoliate Cattelyas

Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

$10 members; $25 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

Free for Members of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches (proof of membership is shown on the day of the class). Please register at www.mounts.org to save your spot.

Registration is required; class size is limited to 35 adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Mounts Botanical Garden and The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches present Potting Workshops the third Saturday of each month. Orchid Potting Workshops will be held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion just inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center. We cordially invite you to participate in our engaging and interactive workshops, led by esteemed members of the Board of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches. The workshop will begin with an insightful discussion about the topic, followed by hands-on potting demonstrations, facilitated by our knowledgeable board members. Attendees are encouraged to bring potting and sanitizing materials, and up to two orchids to repot. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to enhance your potting skills and techniques. The potting sessions will wrap up with a friendly Q&A, to deepen your knowledge and ask questions.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

 

December 21

Handcrafted Gifts:

Create a Frog House and Floral Frogs for Arrangements

with Marilyn Walter & April Krebs

Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

$30 Members; $40 Nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)

Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 teens and adults; classes are nonrefundable. 

Unleash your creativity this holiday season in our Gift-Making Workshop, where you'll craft two unique, nature-inspired gifts: a charming frog house and functional flower frogs for floral arrangements. In this fun and engaging class, you'll learn how to make a cozy, decorative home for garden frogs, providing them with a safe habitat while adding a whimsical touch to your yard. Alternatively, explore the art of creating a flower frog—an essential tool for floral design that helps secure stems in beautiful arrangements. With guidance from experienced artisans, you’ll use natural materials and sustainable methods to create functional and beautiful pieces. Perfect for personal use or as a one-of-a-kind handmade gift, these projects will delight gardeners, nature enthusiasts, and floral designers alike. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Join us for a morning of crafting, connecting with nature, and leaving with a handmade gift you’ll be proud to share—or keep for yourself.
Note: Limited space available—reserve your spot today.

To register, please visit:

https://www.mounts.org/events/2024-12/mounts.org

 

Ribbit The Exhibit II

Back by popular demand is this collection of 18 larger-than-life, whimsical frog sculptures on throughout the Garden, offering a playful and imaginative exploration of amphibians. These fun and quirky sculptures also create opportunities for engaging programming about real frogs and their essential role in our environment. Each piece is handcrafted and colored with natural patina by artist Andy Cobb, and almost all the super-sized sculptures are new to Mounts and were not part of the original exhibition in early 2020.”

 

Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects

Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide

Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org]. 

 

About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:

With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.

 

Attached Images:

(Photo Credit: Mounts Botanical Garden)

1. ‘Hidden Wild’ Film Viewing with Benji Studt – December 7
2. Tiny Trees, Big Cheer: Succulent Edition – December 8
3. Handcrafted Gifts: Frog House – December 21
4. Handcrafted Gifted: Marilyn Walter – December 21
5. Ribbit the Exhibit II: Watering Frog – All month long

 

Available for Interview:

Misty Stoller, Interim Director

Mounts Botanical Garden

954.292.8169 / [email protected]

 

Media Contact:

Gary Schweikhart, PR-BS

561.756.4298 / [email protected]