Going Local: Holden Arboretum

Gnome Improvement

Are you looking for a way to squeeze one more drop out of summer before hibernating under bed covers wrapped in a wool sweater sipping cocoa so warm you can feel the smooth chocolate flowing down your throat? Not ready for that yet, huh? Then gather up a picnic basket, pile the family into the people transporter, and head towards the lake (that's North). Holden Arboretum is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility to me. It is my ultimate most favorite place in the world. When you go, you'll know what I mean (the Rhododendron Garden is my favorite area). While there, plan to tour their current exhibit: Gnome and Garden. Gnomes as high as five feet tall were given to regional artists who used these statues as blank canvases of whimsy to create their own unique take on these magical protectors of our gardens. Holden Arboretum has great activities for the kids relating to the featured gnomes if you're interested, as well.

Gerome, the Recycled Gnome

Candy Gnome - son attempting to lick

Krazy Kubist Knome

Down the Rabbit Hole - a favorite

Favorite Spot in All of Holden

We grabbed some cream sodas, slapped together some turkey sandwiches, made a yummy Roasted Tomato and Olive Salad and hightailed it to search out the gnomes, all 20 of them scattered along the one-mile trail. I want to show you photos of all the gnomes but I don't want to ruin it for you. It's so much fun to be walking along the path, then suddenly, in the distance, you see this huge gnome. My heart went a-flutter after each glimpse of a new gnome discovery!

We practically had the park all to ourselves because we we're allowed to be there after-hours since we're members (I highly recommend this investment).

The Gnome and Garden exhibit runs only through September 25th. I hope you capture some of the whimsy and magic these gnomes have to offer and carry it with you through winter and into spring, when you can enjoy the gardens once again.

There is a fee to enter the park unless you are a member. At only $50 per year we are Maple members of Holden Arboretum so we get free admission and admittance to the park after-hours. The place is open year-round with seasonal activities to enjoy (love the snow-shoeing program). Imagine, the beauty of this preserved land for you to enjoy practically all to yourself! For more information about entrance fees, hours, directions, or membership, click here.


Do you have a gnome in your garden?