Hidden Lake Gardens : Events

FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | SEPT | OCT

Check back for more 2026 events to be announced!

MARCH

The Spring Flower Show

March 1 - 29, 2026 | 10:00 - 4:00 PM

Ready for spring?

Step into the Conservatory and experience an extraordinary collection of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, amaryllis, and more, arranged in a stunning display that captures the spirit of renewal and the promise of spring.

Dates & Hours:
Open Tuesdays through Sundays, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., March 1–29
Closed on Mondays.

Your HLG entry fee includes access to all garden attractions, including this dazzling floral showcase inside the Conservatory.

Don’t miss this dazzling celebration of spring—come immerse yourself in nature’s finest blooms! Learn more at the Spring Flower Show website.

The Volunteer Fair

Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 1:00 - 3:00 PM

A Sky Walk volunteer greeting guests at the start of the Sky Walk.

Looking for a rewarding way to give back to nature and your community?

Stop in our Visitors Center to learn more about our many volunteer and docent opportunities, meet our team, and find the perfect way to share your time and talents.

Discover the many ways you can get involved whether it’s assisting with events, helping at the Sky Walk, or tending to our beautiful garden spaces, including the Conservatory, Hosta Hillside, Harper Dwarf Conifer Collection, Demonstration (Gazebo) Garden, and Elardo Garden . . . there's a place for you at HLG!

For more details and to fill out a volunteer application, visit Volunteer Program.

We can’t wait to grow with you!

MAY

Hidden Lake Gardens Annual Plant Sale

Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10 AM - 2 PM

Scene from the Annual Plant Sale in 2025.

Join us for a one-day-only event at Hidden Lake Gardens, featuring a wide selection of plants, including native plants, sun/shade annuals (plus hanging baskets), sun/shade perennials (daylilies, ferns, hosta & more) woody plants, dwarf conifers, succulents, vegetable plants, and herbs inside our Service Building.

Special Member Preview: 9:00–10:00 a.m. (cardholding members only—no guests, please)
Open to the Public: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. or until sold out

Highlights:

Limited supply of pine needle bales for mulching
Specially curated selections from Hidden Lake Gardens

Payment accepted via cash, check, or credit card. Plan to shop early for the best selection—popular varieties may sell out quickly!

SEPTEMBER

RUN FOR THE HILLS! 5K and 1 Mile Run / Walk

Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Start Time = 8 AM

Photo of runners participating in the 2025 race.

The most scenic and hilliest course in southeast Michigan! Come enjoy a beautiful fall morning at Hidden Lake Gardens for the 16th Annual RUN FOR THE HILLS! 1 Mile & 5K Run or Walk along paved roads. Proceeds from the race will benefit Hidden Lake Gardens and Oh These Irish Hills! organization.

Learn more at the Run for the Hills! website.

Check back for race registration to open or contact us at hlg@msu.edu with questions.

OCTOBER

Fall Fruit & Foliage Bonsai Exhibition

October 17 & 18, 2026

A close-up photo of the vibrant red foliage of a bonsai tree.

Experience the inaugural Fall Fruit & Foliage Bonsai Exhibition at Hidden Lake Gardens, presented in partnership with the North American Bonsai Federation (NABF). This special event will showcase outstanding bonsai from across the region, highlighting the beauty of fall color and fruiting varieties.

Guests will enjoy a curated exhibition featuring exceptional trees selected through a juried application process, celebrating both artistry and horticultural excellence. In addition to the displays, the event will include an opening ribbon-cutting ceremony, VIP reception, tea ceremony, educational presentations, on‑site vendors, auction, food and beverage offerings, and more.

Whether you're a lifelong bonsai artist or simply appreciate the craft, this exhibition invites you to explore the diverse styles, colors, and creativity that define fall fruiting and foliage bonsai.

Bonsai artists are invited to apply to have their work considered for display in the exhibition. The NABF aims to present the finest fall fruiting and/or fall‑color bonsai in North America, and applicants may submit up to two bonsai for juried review.

This is a wonderful opportunity for bonsai practitioners to share their artistry, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and be part of a signature new event at Hidden Lake Gardens.

Whether you're a lifelong bonsai artist or simply appreciate the craft, this exhibition invites you to explore the diverse styles, colors, and creativity that define fall-themed bonsai

Learn more at the Fall Fruit & Foliage Bonsai Exhibition website.