Inside Iowa State

Nov. 16, 2007

Blossoms of Light slated for Nov. 30

by Paula Van Brocklin

Ignite your holiday spirit with a visit to Reiman Gardens' annual Blossoms of Light Festival, Nov. 30 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Guests will witness the gardens aglow with thousands of twinkling lights while seasonal tunes chime on the campanile. An outdoor garden railroad display will feature a musical Christmas engine. Family-friendly indoor activities include crafts, coloring, composing letters to Santa and a visit from jolly old St. Nick himself.

A display of burgundy poinsettias will be the centerpiece of the conservatory in honor of Iowa State's 150th anniversary. The conservatory also will showcase several new tropical plants, which will become part of its permanent collection.

Musical performances will include Central Iowa Brass Quintet, 5-6 p.m.; Jive for Five, 6-7 p.m.; and Ames Children's Choir, 7-8 p.m.

Visitors also will have the unique opportunity to view the butterfly wing at night, complete with black lights.

"If you've never seen the butterflies at night, this will be really special," said Teresa McLaughlin, director of Reiman Gardens. "They are so iridescent."

The Reiman Gardens gift shop will be closed for the season during the event, but some gift items and memberships will be available for purchase. The ISU Horticulture Club will have poinsettias for sale.

Blossoms of Light is free for Reiman Gardens' members and ISU students (with student ID). Cost for guests is $3 for adults and $1 for children under 17.

Blossoms of Light

Friday, Nov. 30, 5-8 p.m.
Reiman Gardens

"If you've never seen the butterflies at night, this will be really special. They are so iridescent."

Teresa McLaughlin, Reiman Gardens director