Storytime in the Garden

 Join us for Storytime in the Garden, a new nature-focused program for preschool-aged children and their caregivers at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden.

Each 30-minute session combines an engaging children’s book with songs, movement, and a simple nature activity or exploration in the Garden. Storytime is designed to help young children and their families connect what they hear in a story with the plants, nature, and discoveries around them.

The Garden is an essential part of the experience. Each session encourages children and caregivers to connect the story with what they can observe and discover together.

Read it. Explore it. Discover it.

Fall 2026 Pilot Dates :    Wednesdays at 10:30 AM

• September 16
• September 23
• September 30
• October 7
• October 14

Storytime will be held at the Garden Gazebo, with the Rutherford Conservatory serving as a weather backup. Both locations are accessible via the ADA path and have space for stroller parking.

The program is designed for preschool-aged children, approximately ages 2–5, accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Storytime is not a drop-off program.

 No registration is required. Families are welcome to attend on a drop-in basis.

The first Storytime on Wednesday, September 16, includes free Garden admission for Storytime families. Beginning with the second session, regular Garden admission applies for caregivers and parents, with no additional Storytime fee.

Families are encouraged to stay and explore the Garden after Storytime, continuing the experience together through observation, discovery, and play.