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Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center invites the public to experience the gardens in a different light during Sip and Stroll on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 5-8 p.m. Take a stroll through the autumnal gardens while enjoying local artisanal wines, craft sangrias and other delectable treats from Free State Cellars. Admission to Sip and Stroll is free of charge.
This unique, after-hours experience takes place during the 13th Annual Scarecrow Festival at Shangri La Gardens. These extended hours provide visitors with an opportunity to view more than 70 unique scarecrows made from repurposed and recycled materials, fall flowering displays and thousands of pumpkins placed throughout the gardens.
“We have partnered with Free State Cellars to have spirits and food available for purchase, as well as music to enjoy while taking in all Mother Nature has to offer,” said Angie Mason, executive director of Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.
Visitors may pre-order picnic boxes and bottles of wine from Free State prior to the event. A limited supply of picnic boxes will be available for purchase on site. Gin Atomic Traveling Cocktails camper will have drinks by the glass and other non-alcoholic selections available for purchase at the event.
Visitors are welcome to bring a blanket to sit on while they enjoy spirits and charcuterie. Visitors may stroll through the garden pathways leading to the back of the gardens prior to dusk. After this time, visitors may enjoy the Frog Ponds and courtyard areas, where Free State will be located, until 8 p.m. The last entry to Sip and Stroll is at 7:30 p.m.
Scarecrow Festival culminates on Saturday, Oct. 28, with Autumn Fair, a day of family fun that includes a scavenger hunt, obstacle course, pumpkin decorating, hayrides, a pontoon boat ride on Adam’s Bayou, and much more. Admission to Autumn Fair is also free of charge.
Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center is located at 2111 West Park Ave. in Orange. For more information, visit shangrilagardens.org.