FALL FOLIAGE FESTIVAL

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Try painting "in fresh air" as you work outdoors with Jill Shaffer, 2D Director of the Adrian Center for the Arts. Enjoy the captivating views at Hidden Lake Gardens in autumn as you explore your creativity.

Workshop Details:

• Includes: A demonstration by Jill Shaffer, followed by the opportunity to paint and explore.
• Materials: Participants are required to bring their own materials, including a sketchbook, folding chair or easel, and an apron.
• Age: 16 and older.
• Cost: $50 per participant. Pre-registration is required.

Please note: Admission to Hidden Lake Gardens is not included in the workshop fee.

2:00 - 5:00 p.m. 

Dive into fall with engaging garden activities brimming with seasonal fun and creativity:

• Nature Scavenger Hunt: Explore the gardens and discover the wonders of fall with our interactive scavenger hunt. The fun starts at the Visitors Center.
• Traditional Scarecrow Display: Delight in a charming array of scarecrows that capture the spirit of the season throughout the gardens.
• Pumpkin and Gourd Decorating: Get creative as you decorate pumpkins and gourds to take home and enjoy. Available while supplies last in the Garden Room located in the lower level of the Visitors Center.
• Facepainting: Add a touch of whimsy to your day with a charming face painting by Karen Merz. Available inside the lobby of the Conservatory.

2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Begin at the Visitors Center

Enjoy a scenic ride through the autumn landscape on a tractor-pulled hay wagon. The ride features stops in front of the Visitors Center and at the Trailhead parking lot, which leads to the Sky Walk.

Hayrides will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Conservatory Parking Lot

Smokey D'z BBQ:  Barbeque meats and sandwiches, including a kid's menu, as well as sides.  View full menu at Smoky D'z BBQ.

Cindy Lu's Kitchen:  Smoothies, wraps and salads made to order.

Dippin' Dots:  Brighten your day with a sweet pick me up!  View full product list at Dippin' Dots.  Flavors are subject to availability the day of the festival.

Performance Times: 3:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.

Gazebo Garden

Prepare to be amazed by the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic, America's premier youth fiddling show band. Renowned for their extraordinary performances, this group blends traditional fiddle tunes with the rich, full sound of a philharmonic ensemble. Their repertoire features a vibrant mix of folk, bluegrass, mountain music, western swing, Celtic tunes, and American classics, guaranteed to get your toes tapping and hands clapping.

Seating Information:

• Hay bale seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs for added comfort.

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Auditorium, Upper Level of the Visitors Center

Join Rev. Gerald S. Hunter, author of the "Haunted Michigan" series of three books, with a fourth to be published soon, for a lively presentation featuring his experiences with haunted places in Michigan. His interest in ghostly activity began at an early age when his family moved into a very haunted home in the Village of Brooklyn. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Albion College, as well as a Masters of Divinity from The Methodist Theological School in Ohio, which included studies at Trinity Lutheran Seminary and the Pontifical College Josephinum. He has investigated hundreds of haunted places, including private homes, public venues, historic sites and places of business. Enjoying retirement after 30 years of serving churches in Michigan and Ohio, he continues to travel to haunted sites across the country. Having lived in multiple places in both peninsulas, he and his spouse, Tracey, now reside in the Irish Hills area.

Following the presentation, the author will be available for Q & A as well as book signing. All books from the entire series will be for sale with all proceeds being generously donated to Hidden Lake Gardens by the author.

5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Start at the Visitors Center

Join us for an unforgettable evening stroll around Hidden Lake and through the illuminated trails of the autumnal forest. As you wind your way through paths carpeted in the rich hues of crimson, amber, and gold leaves, and cross the Sky Walk, you'll be greeted by the warm glow of sunset, casting a magical light that highlights the intricate patterns of the fall foliage and creating a captivating scene. Prepare for a serene and enchanting journey enveloped in picturesque scenery!

What to Bring:

• Flame-free lanterns or flashlights

Important Notes:

• This is a self-guided walk.
• Proper trekking attire is required.
• Participants should be in good health and prepared for potentially vigorous walking conditions.

6214 Monroe Road (M-50)

Tipton, MI 49287

517-431-2060

hlg@msu.edu