NEWS + EVENTS

Every holiday season, the U.S. Botanic Garden uses plants, trees, and twigs to create models of national landmarks as part of its popular Season’s Greenings exhibit. This year, the display kicks off on Nov. 28 and will feature replicas of notable botanical gardens, including fountains, conservatories, and sculptures—all made out of plants!

The displays are known for being true works of art and are extremely lifelike and detailed. You can even use the visitor guide to compare photos of the real gardens to the replicas. Highlights include NASA rockets from the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Rocket Garden, flamingo topiaries from the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the red Japanese gate from the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. The exhibit also will feature replicas of D.C. exhibits (again, made entirely of plants!) as well as a model train set, an annual favorite for children.

The gardens are open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On select Tuesdays and Thursdays, the gardens are open until 8 p.m. with live performances of holiday music. The exhibit areas do get crowded, so it’s recommended to visit during the week if you can.