The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center invites the public to celebrate Earth Day during their annual spring event, Eco-Fest. This day of family friendly fun takes place on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m to 3:30 p.m. This special event also features three butterfly releases throughout the day at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission and activities are free of charge.

In addition to the mesmerizing butterfly releases, visitors can expect to enjoy a day filled with sustainable activities that will educate and entertain all ages. Free plants will be available for guests to take home from Eco-Fest, while supplies last.

"Eco-Fest promises fun for the whole family! Our beautiful garden will come alive as we release a record number of 1,750 butterflies into their natural habitat. With three butterfly releases, we will not only be providing an individual ah-ha moment for guests, we will also be introducing a substantial number of essential pollinators into our garden space," said Katie Krantz, associate director at Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

The Earth Day celebration features a vendor market where local and regional organizations host booths to provide information about earth-friendly products and services. Regional booths include organizations such as the Houston Museum of Natural Science, who will be bringing their "Bugs on Wheels" program to Eco-Fest. Furthermore, the vendor market provides an opportunity for visitors to purchase unique, eco-friendly products and support local artisans.

Shangri La is also offering 10 different opportunities for visitors to enjoy an Outpost Tour along Adams Bayou during Eco-Fest. This unique excursion allows visitors to discover the wonders of nature and learn more about the local environment.

A Pet Food and Supply Drive will be held in conjunction with Eco-Fest this year. Guests are encouraged to drop off pet food and supplies that will benefit local animal shelters in West Orange, City of Orange and Pinehurst. Representatives from each shelter will be on-site to collect the donations and answer any pet questions.

"Take delight in the spring season and celebrate our Earth during Eco-Fest! This day encourages families to spend time together in nature all while enjoying the garden blooms and specially planned activities. It is our hope that children of all ages will leave Eco-Fest inspired to be kind to their world," said Krantz.

Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center is located at 2111 West Park Avenue in Orange, Texas. For more information, please visit shangrilagardens.org.