Bees and 'Beauty and the Beast': A Roundup of Descanso Gardens Events

From Mother's Day Brunch to a seminar on bees and a production of Beauty and the Beast, May has lots to offer at Descanso Gardens.

Check out this list of upcoming events, compiled by Jamie Bray of the Gardens' public relations department.

New Threats to Oak Trees, Saturday, May 4, 10:30 a.m.: Two borer insects are newly identified threats that can spread disease and endanger local oaks. Learn more about these pests and how to protect your trees. Free with admission.

"Beauty & the Beast," Saturdays in May, 11:30 a.m.: California Shakespeare Festival presents the timeless tale of "Beauty & the Beast" when "Into the Enchanted Forest" story time returns. Enjoy this magical story of the power of love in a program for the whole family. Free with admission.

 "Dangerous Beauties" Exhibit," May 7 - July 28: The "beauties" of this thought-provoking exhibit at the Sturt Haaga Gallery are not what they seem at first glance. Closer inspection reveals that not all is as it appears in the plant world or in our environment. Gallery is open daily (except Mondays) from 10 a.m. -4 p.m. Free with admission. 

Dr. Gordon Frankie Bee Seminar, Saturday, May 11 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Bees are important pollinators and vital to the environment. Learn about this insect's behavior with renowned entomologist Dr. Gordon Frankie, a leading researcher in urban bee behavior who has studied bees at Descanso for many years. Participants will use microscopes to study bee morphology, conduct selective collecting of specimens, and learn to pin and label. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a sack lunch. $65, which includes collection net. Fee does not include Gardens admission for nonmembers.

Mother's Day Brunch by Patina, Saturday - Sunday, May 11 - 12: Pamper the special ladies in your life at brunch in Descanso's beautiful Rose Garden. Saturday seatings: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.. Sunday seatings: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, and 1:30 p.m. $47 members, $55 nonmembers; 19 children 4 to 12; free 3 and younger. Reservations required by Tuesday, May 8: www.patinagroup.com/descanso.

Organic Vegetable Gardening,Tuesday, May 21, 2 p.m.: Nothin' spells lovin' like produce from your garden! Learn the basics of growing your own veggies the organic way. Part of "Get Dirty: A Gardening Series by Descanso." Public admission free of charge.   

Admission to Descanso Gardens is $8 general, $6 seniors/students with I.D., $3 children 5 to 12; children 4 and younger free. Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. Information: (818) 949-4200.     

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