Classes, Workshops, and Lectures

 All of our programs are free to the public, but most require registration.

Lectures

The Main Players of the Mixed Perennial Garden. Thursday, June 13, 12:30 p.m.                

The Lurie Garden is alive with bulbs, ephemerals and the first flush of hardy perennials with the arrival of spring. Join us to learn more about the plants that are the first to greet us at the Lurie Garden and how you can create a stellar spring season in your own home garden. Learn tips about spring gardening techniques and tour the Lurie Garden with staff. Note: Pre-registration is recommended but not required here.

Adult Workshops

Beneficial Bugs in Your Home Garden. Thursday, May 16, 12:30 p.m.                

Thursday, May 16, 12:30 PM

Program: Join Erik Grossnickle of Bartlett Tree Experts to learn about setting up an integrated pest management program for your garden. You will learn how to scout for pests, when it is necessary to take action and the best organic methods for treating them, including the use of beneficial insects.

Note: Pre-registration is required here.

Summer Perennial Containers with Nancy Clifton. Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m.

Program: Learn how to create a container for the summer season in Chicago. Discover how to combine perennials, herbs, annuals and vegetables to create a dynamic display. They are easy to create, require little maintenance and look stunning. Note: Pre-registration is required here.

Family Workshops

Free family workshop: A Buzz about Bees. Saturday, June 15, 2 p.m.

Program: Explore the fascinating world of honeybees. Learn how the queen runs a colony of bees and discover how they forage for food, build honeycombs and protect the hive. Join Lurie Garden staff to uncover why bees are so important in our world. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children should be 6-10 years old and accompanied by an adult. Note: Pre-registration is required here. 

Special Family Event: Kaleidoscope Family Festival at Art Institute Chicago

Saturday, July 27 , 10:30 AM to 3 PM

Location: Art Institute Chicago

Take part in a day of discovery, creativity, and family fun at Art Institute Chicago. Explore art-making and activity stations for all ages (teens too!) all over the museum. Led by staff from AIC Family Programs and their cultural partners, including the Lurie Garden.  Meet the Art Institute’s mascot, Artie the Lion! No registration required!