EVENTS
Botanical gardens are evolving into vibrant cultural destinations—places where lush landscapes, creativity, and connection come together. At McKee Botanical Garden, this transformation is in full bloom. Through innovative exhibitions, engaging programs, and immersive experiences, we invite you to see nature and the arts in a new light—and to discover the joy they bring when they flourish side by side.
- Through Sunday, May 24, 2026
Details
FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN – McKee’s Centennial Exhibition
Through Sunday, May 24, 2026
FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN is a monumental outdoor sculpture exhibition by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box. The show presents a fresh look at paper folding in the 21st century with large-scale, origami-inspired metal sculptures. Emerging butterflies, big birds, grazing deer, and blooming flowers all celebrate the process of plant pollination. The colorful, whimsical and kinetic sculptures were created in collaboration with modern masters of paper folding: Te Jui Fu, Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson.
- Tuesdays Through April 28th
- 10:30AM
Details
Join a guided stroll through McKee’s historic garden every Tuesday and discover the remarkable story behind this tropical oasis. Learn how plant explorers brought back exotic specimens in 1926, which landscape architect William Lyman Phillips wove into his visionary design, and how the garden’s architectural icons came to be. Hear how Vero’s first visitor attraction was saved from development, meticulously restored and reopened as the beloved community treasure it is today. Not intended for groups or school tours.
Preschoolers (up to age 4)
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February 19 – May 30
Every Thursday and Saturday
- 10:30 – 11:00 am
Details
Our beloved early childhood garden programs are sprouting back up. Designed especially for our youngest nature lovers, these hands-on sessions invite children to explore the wonders of science, nature, and the Garden through play, discovery, and creativity. Each week, little explorers will dig into activities that spark curiosity and creativity. Join us as we grow, learn, and play together in the Garden!
Free with Membership or paid Garden Admission
Registration not required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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July 18 & 19
October 17 & 18
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As McKee celebrates its Centennial, we’re opening our gates wider than ever. On four special Community Days weekends, Indian River County residents are invited to enjoy McKee Botanical Garden for just $5 admission. (ID Required)
From peaceful jungle trails to inspiring exhibitions, these weekends are our way of saying thank you, to the community that saved, supported, and continues to sustain the first, the oldest and the only award-winning cultural landscape in Vero Beach.
2026 Community Days
- July 18 & 19
- October 17 & 18
- Saturday, May 9th
- 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM
Details
Few days are as joyful and fun at McKee as the annual Pirate & Fairy Festival. Children of all ages are welcome to dress in their fairy finest or swashbuckling best for a day full of games, make and take crafts, entertainment and fairy hair applications.
- Wednesday, May 13th
- 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Registration is required. Member price is $15.00 and Non-member price is $20.00
Details
Oasis in a Pot: Building a Florida Native Aquatic Rest Stop
This workshop focuses on creating a Florida Native Aquatic Container Garden, specifically designed as a functional “rest stop” for native insects and local wildlife. You will learn to build a miniature wetland that provides water, nectar, and habitat for pollinators like butterflies, bees, and dragonflies.
Class Overview
Florida’s insects are in decline, and urban “habitat highways” are more important than ever. In this course, we transform simple pots into thriving aquatic ecosystems. You’ll learn how to use Florida-native wetland plants to create a permanent water source that supports everything from migrating Monarchs to mosquito-eating dragonflies.
Who This Class is For
- Apartment & Condo Dwellers: Learn how a single pot on a balcony can become a vital wildlife corridor.
- Nature Lovers: Anyone looking to attract dragonflies—the ultimate natural pest control—to their patio.
- Sustainable Gardeners: Homeowners looking for low-maintenance, high-impact Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ solutions.
Why Take This Class?
By the end of this session, you won’t just have a pretty pot; you’ll have a functional piece of the Florida Everglades. These “mini-wetlands” act as biological filters, provide oxygen to your micro-habitat, and offer a safe landing for exhausted pollinators. Native aquatic plants used in the demonstration will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the class.
- May 16 – September 7
Free Admission to active-duty military personnel and their families
Details
McKee Botanical Garden is a proud participant in the Blue Star Museums partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of War and museums across America, offering FREE ADMISSION to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including Nation Guard and Reserve.
This year’s program will begin on Saturday, May 16 and run through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.
- Saturday, June 13th
- 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM
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Waterlilies have enchanted visitors at McKee since 1932. Admire over 100 varieties—51 of which are part of the prestigious “Certified Collection of Excellence”, a distinction held by only seven gardens worldwide. Enjoy photo contests, plein-air artists, re-potting demos, and specialty vendors during this colorful celebration.
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Saturday, September 5th 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday, September 6th 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
McKee and Vero Beach Orchid Society Members are invited to preview the exhibition and sale on Saturday at 8:00 am
Details
McKee Botanical Garden, in partnership with the Vero Beach Orchid Society, is pleased to present an exhibition of exotic, historic and rare orchids as well as special presentations for the collector or enthusiast.
Experience the beauty of orchids at McKee Botanical Garden through a vibrant display show judged by the American Orchid Society, showcasing exceptional orchid displays that celebrate artistry and cultivation. The event brings together Florida craft artisans and acclaimed orchid growers including Krull-Smith, Odom’s Orchids, Francisco Miranda Orchids, Quest Orchids, and Mac Orchids. Visitors can explore a lively marketplace of rare and exotic plants set within McKee’s award-winning jungle landscape, along with engaging speakers, educational lectures, and a hands-on workshop throughout the weekend.