The Art of Bonsai

Returns July 12, 2025

Presenting the annual Art of Bonsai event at Hidden Lake Gardens:  

A summer celebration for bonsai artists, enthusiasts or anyone new to bonsai! Come discover the distinct discipline, persistence and quiet contemplation only bonsai can provide. All activities are included with regular admission to HLG with the exception of the bonsai workshops (online pre-registration required, available below).

The Art of Bonsai exhibition 2023.

BONSAI SHOW: DISPLAY OF VISITING BONSAI

Bonsai exhibition.

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Lower Level of the Visitors Center


Come enjoy this extraordinary display of miniature trees showcasing a diverse array of bonsai plants from across Michigan and beyond. Arrive before 3:00 p.m. to vote for your favorite! 2024 Fan Favorite Voting Results

Check back for 2025 registration availability. Open to all bonsai enthusiasts who would like to exhibit. Online registration will be available. For more information, please contact the HLG office by emailing hlg@msu.edu or calling 517-431-2060.  Exhibitors please plan to arrive to set-up before 10:00 a.m. on the day of the event.

BONSAI VENDOR FAIR

Bonsai for sale.

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Lawn adjacent to Main Parking Lot


A variety of vendors will be present, offering bonsai, plants with bonsai potential, pots, tools, and related items. Don't miss this one-stop shop for all your bonsai needs! 

Check back for online vendor registration availablility. For more information, please contact the HLG office by emailing hlg@msu.edu or calling 517-431-2060.

BONSAI WORKSHOPS

Workshop participant planting a new bonsai stock.

2025 Workshop Details TBA, Auditorium, Upper Level of the Visitors Center

The entrance fee to HLG will be waived for all workshop participants on the day of the event.

 

HIDDEN LAKE GARDENS BONSAI DISPLAY

The Bonsai Courtyard at Hidden Lake Gardens.

10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Bonsai Display Courtyard

The Bonsai Display Courtyard will be open to the public with access through the Conservatory.

DEMONSTRATIONS, ANSWERS & ADVICE

Hands pruning a bonsai tree.

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Bonsai Display Courtyard

Highly experienced bonsai artists, working on their own trees, will be available to respond to questions and offer advice to visitors. Guests are invited to bring both trained and untrained stock for discussion.

 

FOOD AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

Food truck.

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Food vendor for 2025 to be determined. Picnic areas available on grounds.

Questions?  Please call 517-431-2060 or email hlg@msu.edu.