Two ceremonies were held at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens on the evening of Oct. 20. One was a ribbon-cutting opening the Volgenau Conservatory; and the other was a dedication of the dogwood tree planted in memory of the life of David Hobson, a respected career regional parks director.
According to the Vienna Connection, "The conservatory, fully funded by a donation from the Volgenau family, is beautifully situated on a knoll overlooking the park grounds. The climate-controlled 1,200 square foot glass building, equipped with heaters and automated ventilation windows, will be open for public entry with a focus on Mediterranean plants; plants that thrive in a warmer climate. Public school students are expected to visit frequently to learn about horticulture, geography, and the importance of plants in our environment. In the next couple of months, before taking up that education role, the conservatory will serve as the concession center for visitors during the park’s “Winter Walk of Lights” event."
As per Vienna Connection, "The park is known for its annual “Winter Walk of Lights”, a spectacular holiday light show which draws 80,000 visitors during the Fall and Winter event. Described as “magical and dazzling” in the past, this year it may be better described as “enchanting and safe.” The event provides masks required, six-foot distancing outdoor experience along with a half-mile plus, one-way trail, with increased sanitary practices observed by park staff to keep common areas clean. Timed tickets for the light show, which runs nightly from Nov. 11 through January 3, 2021, 5:30 - 10 pm, may be obtained through the park authority web site: https://www.novaparks.com/events/winter-walk-of-lights.
Maryam
View posts by MaryamMaryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.