The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina, a non-profit botanical garden, is committed to improving lives and nurturing creativity through the wonders of nature. Spanning over 300 acres of land, our aspiration is to establish ourselves as a premier destination for plant and nature enthusiasts, event goers, families and people of all ages!
Description
Gardenpalooza: An Unforgettable Day in The Gardens
Come kick off spring with The Gardens—Alice in Wonderland style.
Event Details:
- 📅 Date: Saturday March 21st
- ⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- 🎟️ Cost: $10 per person
📍 Location: The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina | 985 Johnson Nursery Rd. Willard, NC 28478
So…What Is Gardenpalooza?
Gardenpalooza is a spring celebration for horticultural enthusiasts, families with kids of all ages, couples looking for a fun date, and anyone who loves a good reason to wander the gardens, sip something delightful, and stay out past sunset. For this one, expect fun activities, delicious themed food and drinks, playful yard games, garden tours, and a movie night under the stars—all wrapped in an Alice in Wonderland twist.
The Theme: Alice in Wonderland 🌸🫖
Down the Garden Path We Go…
Step into a storybook afternoon inspired by Alice in Wonderland. From whimsical drinks and themed bites to a movie screening, Gardenpalooza invites you to get curious, get creative, and maybe even get a little mad—in the best way.
🎩 Costumes encouraged! Come dressed as your favorite Alice in Wonderland character for extra fun and whimsy!
There’s Something Curious Around Every Corner
- Guided garden tours with Karen & David
- “Look What’s New” trial plants
- Yard games: CroqPutt, Connect Four, Jenga, Cornhole, Chess & Checkers
- Kid-focused scavenger hunt and activities throughout The Gardens
- Make-your-own plant or flower arrangement (additional charge)
Movie screening: Alice in Wonderland (Bring a chair or blanket!)
Eat Me. Drink Me. Enjoy.
Enjoy Delicious Food from Our Grill:
- Pizza
- Bird Dogs
- Pretzels
Taste the Most Delightful Drinks & Treats:
- Wonderland Themed seasonal drinks and cocktails
- Whimsical Sweet Treats
- Garden Bar open all afternoon & evening
Your Very Important Date—Planned
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Mixing It Up: Create your own custom mixed planter with guidance from our Garden Center experts. (30 slots | $65)
3:00 – 3:45 PM
Guided Garden Tour with Our Garden Experts
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Make Your Own Bouquet: Pick your favorites from our selection of fresh-cut flowers and design a beautiful, custom bouquet to take home and enjoy. (30 slots | $25)
5:00 – 5:45 PM
Guided Garden Tour with Our Garden Experts
6:30 – 8:30 PM
Movie Screening: Alice in Wonderland (Bring a chair or blanket!)
All Day (2:00 – 9:00 PM):
Garden Bar • Yard Games • Scavenger Hunt
4:00 – 9:00 PM:
Garden Grille Open
Garden Center Hours:
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Want to Save on Gardenpalooza (and More)?
Join The Gardens Membership and receive 50% off Gardenpalooza tickets, plus exclusive savings on our signature events like The Southern Lights and Grain to Oven as well as savings in The Garden Center.
Don’t Be Late for This Very Important Date!
Date & Time
Sat, Mar 21, 2026 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Venue Details
The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina
985 Johnson Nursery RoadWillard, North Carolina 28478