O CTO B E R – D EC E MBE R 20 26
INSIDE THIS ISSUE • • •
Strategic Plan Roadmap Pumpkinville: Road to Route 66 Holiday Poinsettia Show
Vision Statement Myriad Botanical Gardens seeks to enhance the quality of life and vibrancy of downtown Oklahoma City by creating and sustaining a world-class public garden and offering year-round horticultural, cultural, and recreational programs and events for all.
The Bridge Editorial Staff Stacey Aldridge Chief Marketing & Development Officer Ibrahim Aziz Graphic Designer
Pumpkinville 2025
Myriad Gardens Foundation EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Larry Nichols, Chairman Jim Tolbert, Chair Emeritus Lindsey Brock, Treasurer Governor Bill Anoatubby Mark Beffort John Hart Andy Rine Councilman Todd Stone Sean Trauschke
COMMUNITY BOARD Andy Rine, President Tony Boghetich Gerry Bonds Andy Burnett Vera Cheek Matt Cole James Everest Dr. Warren Filley Chris Fleming Vonnie Garner Brooke Haneborg Linda Haneborg Linda Horn Gail Huneryager
Steven Kerr Michael Laird Regina Lane Chris Lawson Paul Lefebvre Jean McLaughlin Robert Meinders Harry Meister Dee Morales Musallam Larry Nichols Kent Phillips James Pickel D. Joe Rockett Sally Starling
Letter from the President and CEO,
Michelle Furrer
As we turn the page to another exciting season at Myriad Botanical Gardens, I am filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. This fall marks my second Pumpkinville, and I cannot wait to welcome our community for this year’s Route 66-inspired adventure. From pumpkins to the open road, it promises to be a celebration filled with fun, memories, and a little Oklahoma spirit. And, of course, the journey continues into the holiday season. This issue of The Bridge offers a glimpse at all that is ahead, and I hope you will join us throughout the fall and winter to experience the Gardens in new and familiar ways. There is perhaps no better time to reflect on where we have been and, more importantly, where we are going. Our new strategic plan, Charting the Next Chapter, gives us a clear vision for the future. I am especially proud of the progress our team has made in coming together as one organization, united around a shared mission and a shared commitment to serving our community. We have much to celebrate, and even more to look forward to. The best of our journey is still ahead, and I am excited to take that journey with you.
Michelle Furrer President & CEO
Table of Contents 4-5 6 7 8-9 10-13 14-19 20 21 22-23 24 25 26 27 28-29
Pumpkinville: Road to Route 66 October Workshops Tree for All Growing a Tradition Together Class Schedule Charting the Next Chapter Winter in Full Bloom Devon Ice Rink Myriad Gardens Shop Your Visit Makes a Difference Growing Opportunities The Scenic Route: Rethinking Roadside Beauty Orchid Show and Crystal Orchid Awards Holidays at Scissortail Park
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Scissortail Park Events Your Celebration Belongs Here
GENERAL ADMISSION PRICES All Inclusive Pass $15 per person online (ages 3+) $16 per person at the gate (ages 3+)
Includes admission to Pumpkinville, the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory, and unlimited rides on Mo’s Carousel.
Myriad Gardens Members are FREE! Pumpkinville Only Admission $9 per person online (ages 3+) $10 per person at the gate (ages 3+) Pumpkinville is free for children 2 years and under.
Mo’s Carousel Rides $3 per rider (all ages)
Must have a Pumpkinville ticket to enter the festival area. Myriad Gardens Members and All Inclusive Passes get unlimited free rides during Pumpkinville.
Crystal Bridge Only Admission Adult (18 – 61 years): $10.50 Senior (62+ years): $9 Military/Veterans: $9 Student: $7 Youth (5-17 years): $5.50 Ages 4 & under FREE
Monday, October 5 | 5:30-7:30PM
Harvest Happy Hour $25 per person (nonmember, ages 21+) $15 per person (member, ages 21+) Both ticket options include admission and Happy Hour Paint-a-Pumpkin & Sip Package.
Popcorn, Pumpkins & Practical Magic $35 per person (nonmember, ages 3+) $25 per person (member, ages 3+)
Both ticket options include admission, popcorn, beverages, plus reserved movie seating area.
Stroll through Pumpkinville's displays while enjoying cocktails and live music. Must be 21+ to enter.
Myriad Members get All Inclusive Admission for FREE Get tickets online at myriadgardens.org/pumpkinville
Popcorn, Pumpkins & Practical Magic! Start your evening with a stroll through Pumpkinville, then grab some popcorn and a “Midnight Margarita” before settling in for an outdoor screening of the cult-favorite Practical Magic on the Devon Lawn.
Presented by
OG&E
Your ticket includes admission to Pumpkinville, popcorn, beverages - including our “Midnight Margaritas”- and access to a reserved viewing area in the VIP Pumpkin Patch. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket, find the perfect spot and enjoy a fall night under the stars - with a little movie magic mixed in!
Supported by Devon Energy, BancFirst, Delta Dental, Tinker Federal Credit Union, and MetroFamily Magazine
This Fall, Take The Scenic Route This fall, Myriad Botanical Gardens invites families to hit the road for a one-of-a-kind autumn adventure during Pumpkinville: Road to Route 66 presented by OG&E, a celebration inspired by the 100th anniversary of the historic Route 66. Guests will discover creative pumpkin murals and sculptures depicting iconic Route 66 attractions, including Oklahoma favorites like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and POPS in Arcadia, along with Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Wigwam Motel in Arizona, and other classic roadside surprises from across the Mother Road.
Myriad Gardens Members get FREE admission!
Event Hours
Monday, Thursday & Sunday | 10AM-5PM Friday & Saturday | 10AM-8PM (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
October 1 - 25,2026
Member Hour Thursday, October 1 | 5:30-7:30PM A night for Members only.
October Adult and Family Workshops Garden Classroom | Register at myriadgardens.org/calendar
Saturday, October 3 AND Saturday, October 24, 11AM-12PM | Mum-pkin Table Centerpieces M $15; NM $18 Create your own festive, floral centerpiece with a living pumpkin and real mums! Excellent for floral beginners. Recommended for ages 6+. Saturday, October 3 AND Saturday, October 24, 2-4PM | Applique Pumpkin Tote Bags M $18; NM $22 Design and adorn your own canvas tote bag using hand-stitching techniques and autumnal fabrics. Recommended for ages 12+. Sunday, October 4 AND Sunday, October 25, 2-4PM | Autumnal Relief Printmaking M $18; NM $22 Practice negative relief printmaking by making your own stamps on both Styrofoam and linoleum blocks. Recommended for ages 8+. Saturday, October 10, 11AM-12PM | Fall Grapevine Wreaths M $25; NM $30 Create your own Fall wreath out of a 14” grapevine base and a combination of dried and silk flowers, perfect for a long-lasting display on a front door, wall, or porch. Recommended for ages 12+. Saturday, October 10, 2-5PM | Needle Felted Pumpkins M $35; NM $40 Create a set of felted pumpkins perfect for any Fall display. We will guide you through the methods and strategies for creating your pumpkin and future projects. Recommended for ages 14+. Sunday, October 11, 2-4PM | Autumn Luminaries M $18; NM $22 Let your light shine with a special mason jar luminary perfect for celebrating that Autumn glow! Recommended for ages 12+. Saturday, October 17, 10AM-12PM | Pumpkin Pointillism M $15; NM $18 Paint your own perfect pumpkin patch on canvas using an artistic style known as pointillism. No experience required! Recommended for ages 6+. Saturday, October 17, 2-4PM | Decorative Decoupaged Pumpkins M $18; NM $22 Enjoy a new twist on a decorated pumpkin with floral decoupaging. Show off a pumpkin that will wow your friends and family and last for weeks. Recommended for ages 8+. Sunday, October 18, 2-4PM | Autumnal Mosaic Coaster Sets M $35; NM $40 Create your own mosaic tile coaster set in autumnal colors and design. Recommended for ages 14+.
TREE FOR ALL Saturday, November 7, 9AM-1PM 9-10AM - Presale Pickup 10AM-1PM - Onsite Sales
$20 each | 3-gallon trees
Our annual tree sale returns bigger and better at Sheridan Lawn! This program is designed to assist homeowners as they promote natural beautification and improvement of the environment through the planting of trees. Our goal is to diversify the green canopy in Oklahoma and ensure a sustainable and biodiverse landscape.
Purchase Options
2026 Tree Selections
Myriad Gardens Members - Online Presale Member presale begins on Thursday, October 29, at 8AM.
Arizona Cypress, Hesperocyparis arizonica
Visit myriadgardens.org/treeforall Members will need to login to access the presale link.
Bald Cypress, Taxodium distichum Buttonbush, Cephalanthus occidentalis Chaste Tree, Vitex agnus-castus Drummond Maple, Acer rubrum var. drummondii
General Online Sale Starts Friday, October 30, at 8AM. All online sales close on Thursday, November 5, at 5PM. On-Site Sales Purchase and pick up your tree on the same day beginning at 10AM on Saturday, November 7.
Mexican Plum, Prunus mexicana Rhapsody in Pink Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit VIII’ Shumard Oak, Quercus shumardii Weeping Willow, Salix babylonica White Oak, Quercus alba
Growing a Tradition Together 15 SEASONS WITH OG&E
When Pumpkinville first opened at Myriad Botanical Gardens in 2012, it was a brand-new idea; a fall experience unlike anything the Gardens had offered before. One partner believed in its potential from the very beginning. OG&E signed on as presenting sponsor for the first year and has been along for the ride ever since. This fall, as Pumpkinville: Road to Route 66 celebrates a century of the Mother Road, Myriad Gardens is celebrating another milestone: 15 consecutive seasons of partnership with OG&E. “We knew it would be such a unique event, different from anything else Oklahoma had seen,” said Kelli Hayward Walsh, OG&E manager of community outreach and engagement. “Bringing together communities is important, and to be a part of something so special is meaningful.” Over 15 seasons, Pumpkinville has grown into one of Oklahoma City’s favorite fall traditions and the largest annual fundraiser for the Myriad Gardens Foundation. Each year brings a new theme and a completely reimagined experience, giving families another reason to return.
2012
2014 2012
“Initially believing this would be something unique and watching it grow has been amazing,” Walsh said. “Each year we look forward to seeing what the theme is, and watching the community get excited is what this partnership is all about.”
2016 2015
2017
OG&E’s commitment has remained constant even when Pumpkinville itself had to change. In 2020, when the traditional event wasn’t possible, Myriad Gardens pivoted to a smaller Pumpkin Patch photo experience. OG&E remained by the Gardens’ side, continuing its support during an extraordinary season. For OG&E, the partnership is also about making memorable experiences accessible to the community. The company works with the Gardens to provide complimentary Pumpkinville admission to some of its most vulnerable customers. “We want our community to have unique opportunities at an affordable price,” Walsh said. “We also love how it encourages families to get outside and enjoy the beautiful green spaces the Gardens provide.”
For Myriad Gardens, 15 seasons of support represent much more than a sponsorship.
“OG&E has been part of the Pumpkinville story since the very first season, and we are incredibly grateful for the trust and commitment they have shown us year after year,” said Michelle Furrer, president and CEO of Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park.
The partnership extends beyond financial support. Over the years, OG&E employees have volunteered at Pumpkinville, working alongside Gardens volunteers and welcoming the customers and families they serve.
“They believed in what Pumpkinville could become, stayed with us as it grew and evolved, and have helped us make this experience accessible to more families in our community,” Furrer said. “That kind of long-term partnership is invaluable to a nonprofit organization, and we are proud to celebrate this milestone together.”
“Seeing our employees out volunteering alongside our customers is always a memorable experience,” Walsh said. “But nothing beats seeing the faces of families as they walk through and experience it every year.”
As Pumpkinville heads down the Road to Route 66 this fall, OG&E and Myriad Gardens celebrate 15 seasons of pumpkins, creativity, community, and memories... with plenty more road ahead.
2020
2026
2023
2019 2022
2025
MORE TO COME!
ADULT CLASSES Ongoing Second Friday of the Month, 1-2PM Last Saturday of the Month, 10-11AM Guided Walking Tour | FREE
Expand your knowledge of Oklahoma plants and find inspiration for your own garden with an educational walking tour, led by one of our knowledgeable horticultural staff. Although geared towards adults, children and leashed dogs are welcome.
OCTOBER Thursday, October 22, 6-7PM | Planting Bulbs for Seasonal Displays M $18; NM $22
Discover the ins and outs of planting bulbs for stunning color shows all year long. Guests will leave with a small batch of tulip bulbs to jump start their planting season.
Thursday, October 29, 6-8:30PM | Professional Development Workshop: WILD for Bats! Adult: $10
Are you a teacher for elementary or middle school students or a parent who homeschools? Join us in this professional development opportunity featuring Project WILD and Oklahoma’s native bats! Learn how to run activities and lessons devoted to these creatures and the science of the night.
NOVEMBER Thursday, November 5, 6-7PM | Tree Pruning M $12; NM $15
Join Chris Martin from OG&E as we learn the essential techniques for maintaining healthy, beautiful trees. Chris will guide us through the best practices for cutting, shaping, and ensuring proper growth, whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills.
Sunday, November 8, 2-5PM | Workshop: Beginning Basket Weaving M $35; NM $40
Perfect for beginners, each guest will have the opportunity to weave two small baskets to take home and enjoy both a practical and beautiful work of art.
Thursday, November 12, 6-7:30PM | Harvesting and Saving Seeds M $15; NM $18
Join us as we learn everything you need to know to have a successful seed harvest from your garden, and take a walk through our grounds to harvest seeds from your local botanical garden!
Saturday, November 14, 2-4PM | Workshop: Herbal Perfumes M $35; NM $40 Create a scent-sory delight as you create a pair of roller perfumes made of all natural materials and oils.
Sunday, November 15, 2-4PM | Workshop: A Novel Arrangement M $55; NM $60
Create a gorgeous floral arrangement nestled within the pages of a book with Janae Lee from Dat Plant Tho. No previous arranging experience required, you will be guided through arrangement techniques and color theory.
Thursday, November 19, 6-7PM | Putting Your Garden to Bed M $15; NM $18
November is the time to prepare your garden for the colder winter months so it looks its best and returns in the spring in the best shape possible. We will talk through what we do in the garden at this time, discuss what is and isn’t getting cut back, and other best practices.
Sunday, November 22, 2-4PM | Workshop: Homemade Butters M $30; NM $35 Learn how to make delicious, creamy homemade butter at home without the need for an oversized churn. Guests will take home approximately one pound of butter total with the option to either leave them as is or create up to two compounds with their butter.
DECEMBER Thursday, December 3, 5:30-6:30PM | Workshop: Mounted Plant Art M $45; NM $50
Create a timeless piece of living art for your wall with Wei Li of Simple Morea. Guests will leave with a mounted plant ready to be displayed in their homes.
Thursday, December 3, 6:30-8PM | Workshop: Kokedama Planting M $45; NM $50
Kokedama is a botanical planting style originating in Japan and popular in modern aesthetics. Ornamental houseplants are planted within balls of soil and moss and can be hung or displayed decoratively. Guests will leave with a complete kokedama they have made, including a plant.
Saturday, December 5, 1-4PM | Workshop: Evergreen Wreaths M $55; NM $60 Specialized instruction will lead you to create a beautiful 18-22” wreath fit to adorn any holiday display. Evergreen wreaths are suited for indoor or outdoor displays.
Sunday, December 6, 2-4PM | Workshop: Floral Handbags M $55; NM $60
While this “handbag” might not carry all your necessities, it’ll win major points for an ephemeral beauty that will have friends and family asking where and how do they get their own! No floral arranging experience needed.
Thursday, December 10, 6-7PM | Workshop: Herbal Teas for Winter Immunity M $25; NM $30 Join us in learning about specific herbs and their immune-boosting properties, tips and recipes, as well as making our own tea mixtures to take home and enjoy.
Saturday, December 12, 11AM-12PM | Workshop: Cotton Hooped Ornaments M $25; NM $30
Create a trio of beautiful ornaments encased in embroidery hoops from a wide variety of holiday and seasonal fabrics, beads, and ribbon!
Saturday, December 12, 2-5PM | Workshop: Needle Felted Ornaments M $35; NM $40
We will guide you through the methods and strategies for creating your ornaments and future projects as well as send you home fully equipped to continue creating well after the class is over.
Thursday, December 17, 6-7:30PM | Workshop: Wild Bird Seed Wreaths M $20; NM $24 Feed your overwintering birds with style this winter with a functional but lovely bird seed wreath.
YOUTH & FAMILY CLASSES Ongoing
NOVEMBER & DECEMBER Crafty Friday First and Third Fridays, 10-11AM
FREE fun and easy educational crafts in the South Lobby.
Reading Wednesday Wednesdays, 10-10:45AM
Join us for free story time in the South Lobby! We’ll kick off with an interactive song, and some weeks will feature a fun craft activity after the story.
NOVEMBER
Saturday, November 21, 11AM–12PM | Youth Workshop: Chefs in the Garden - Root Beer Floats & Science M $15; NM $18 Become a food scientist as we explore solids, liquids, gases, and bubbles before creating the ultimate root beer float!
Saturday, November 21, 2–3PM | Youth Workshop: Prairie Fox Adventure M $18; NM $20 Join us for a prairie adventure as we discover how foxes hunt, hide, and survive before creating your very own stuffed fox friend.
DECEMBER Saturday, December 19, 11AM–12PM | Chefs in the Garden Apple Adventure: From Orchard to Warm Apple Cider M $15; NM $18
Become an apple scientist as we explore orchards, discover how apples grow, and use a real apple press to make fresh warm apple cider!
Saturday, December 19, 1–2PM | Build with me - Gingerbread Garden M $15; NM $18
Design a magical gingerbread garden using frosting, candy, cookies, and lots of imagination!
Sunday, December 21 & Monday, December 22, 12-2PM | Winter Drop-Ins Free with admission to the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory.
CHARTING THE NEXT CHAPTER
OUR NEW STRATEGIC PLAN PROVIDES A ROADMAP FOR STRENGTHENING MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS AND SCISSORTAIL PARK FOR THE YEARS AHEAD Great public spaces don’t remain great by standing still. Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park are two of Oklahoma City’s most recognizable downtown destinations. They are places where people gather for celebrations, experience nature, attend concerts and festivals, learn something new, or simply enjoy a beautiful day outdoors. As our city continues to grow and change, the organization responsible for these spaces must be ready to grow and evolve with it. That is the thinking behind a new five-year strategic plan now underway for Park Management Company, the nonprofit organization that manages Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park.
The plan establishes four goals that will guide decisions, investments, and priorities across both properties:
1. Advance operational excellence by optimizing Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park under the Park Management Company umbrella. 2. Maintain Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park as top destinations in Oklahoma City. 3. Provide exceptional and educational experiences to every guest. 4. Ensure long-term sustainability through growth in earned and contributed revenue. While these goals provide the destination, developing the roadmap to reach them required first listening to the people who know, use, and support these community spaces.
More Than 1,000 Voices Help Shape the Future From September 2025 through March 2026, the strategic planning process represented a significant investment of time and resources, and a commitment to an open, inclusive approach. Throughout the process, the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park team sought a broad range of voices and perspectives. More than 1,000 community members provided input, creating a meaningful foundation of data and feedback to help identify priorities for the future. The planning process unfolded across six distinct phases, with each building upon the insights of the one before it. The goal was not simply to determine what the organization wanted to accomplish, but to understand what our community values today, where opportunities exist, and what Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park will need to remain vibrant, relevant, and sustainable in the years ahead. The process also examined the opportunities and challenges facing both properties, from changing guest expectations and Oklahoma City’s continued growth to evolving programming needs, infrastructure, and the financial realities of operating and maintaining two highly used public spaces. Another important consideration was the relationship between the two properties themselves. Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park have distinct identities, histories, and experiences, but they share resources, expertise, and organizational infrastructure through Park Management Company. The strategic plan recognizes an opportunity to strengthen that relationship by finding efficiencies, encouraging collaboration, and creating stronger systems behind the scenes while preserving what makes each destination special. By March, months of research, conversations, community input, and analysis had been translated into a five-year direction. The next step was turning that direction into action.
From Five Years to Year One A five-year vision can feel distant. That is why the first year of the strategic plan is focused on building the foundation needed to make meaningful progress over time. Each of the four goals has been translated into a work plan with specific initiatives, milestones, and responsibilities. Some of this work will be immediately visible to guests. Other efforts involve research, systems, and organizational improvements happening behind the scenes, but they are equally important to our future. Under operational excellence, for example, we are examining how Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park can work more effectively together under Park Management Company. That includes a brand discovery process for the umbrella organization and identifying opportunities for greater consistency and collaboration across departments and properties. To help both destinations remain among Oklahoma City’s most valued attractions, we are also taking a deeper look at who our guests are and who they could be. Existing information from attendance, social media, customer ZIP codes, and other sources is being combined with local and regional research and data from community partners. This work will help us better define the audiences for each property, identify gaps and opportunities, and understand the right mix of local and out-of-town visitors. Those insights can then inform future decisions about programming, marketing, amenities, and the overall guest experience.
Measuring More Than Revenue Another important first-year initiative is the development of a new framework for evaluating programs, events, and opportunities. For nonprofit organizations managing public spaces, success cannot be measured by revenue alone. A free community program may generate little direct income but provide tremendous community value. A fundraising event may generate important financial support while also strengthening relationships with donors and sponsors. An educational program may serve a smaller audience but make a significant impact on those it reaches. During year one, we are developing an ROI matrix that considers four dimensions: mission impact, revenue generation, philanthropy, and community value. The framework will be researched and defined, developed and tested, and ultimately put into broader use. Over time, it will give staff and leadership a more consistent way to evaluate where we invest our time, people, and resources. Most importantly, it recognizes that the “return” on an investment in a public space can take many forms.
Creating Exceptional Experiences
Planning for Long-Term Sustainability
Providing an exceptional and educational experience to every guest is also central to the plan.
None of this work happens without a sustainable financial foundation.
That experience begins long before someone attends a concert, enters the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, or participates in an educational program. It includes how guests find information, how they are welcomed, the condition of the spaces they visit, the programs they encounter, and the interactions they have with staff and volunteers. Year one is laying the groundwork for an increasingly coordinated approach to that entire experience, including opportunities to strengthen education and interpretation throughout both properties. The goal is not simply to give people more reasons to visit. It is to make every visit meaningful enough that they want to return, and to ensure that Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park continue to provide experiences worthy of the community’s investment in them.
Myriad Botanical Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation rely on a combination of earned and contributed revenue to support the programs, amenities, and experiences our community enjoys. Memberships, sponsorships, donations, grants, fundraising events, rentals, and other revenue sources all play a role. The strategic plan calls for strengthening and diversifying those resources so both properties can continue serving the community for decades to come. That work is particularly important as we look toward future capital improvements, changing operational needs, and the continued expectations that come with caring for two of Oklahoma City’s signature destinations.
A Plan Designed to Evolve A strategic plan provides direction, but it should not eliminate flexibility. If there is one thing we have learned from managing dynamic public spaces, it is that opportunities and challenges do not always arrive according to plan. The framework established through this process gives us clear priorities while allowing us to adapt as Oklahoma City and our community’s needs continue to change. Throughout the coming years, we will measure progress, evaluate results, and adjust our work when necessary. For members, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, the strategic plan is also a promise of stewardship. More than 1,000 voices helped shape where we are going, and the continued investment of our community will help us get there. Your support of Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park makes these spaces and the experiences within them possible. Our responsibility is to ensure that investment continues to create meaningful experiences and lasting value for the community. There is exciting work ahead.
And just as Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park have grown alongside Oklahoma City, this plan is designed to make sure we are ready for what comes next. Support our journey by making a donation at myriadgardens.org/give or scissortailpark.org/support-the-park.
Winter in Full Bloom Step out of the winter chill and into a spectacular celebration of the season inside the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory. From mid-November through December 31, the Crystal Bridge transforms for its winter horticulture show, filling the Conservatory with the rich colors and textures of poinsettias set amongst its lush tropical plant collection. Taking center stage is the show-stopping poinsettia tree, rising above the lily pond and creating a dramatic holiday centerpiece in the heart of the Conservatory. Surrounded by colorful plantings throughout the space, it has become a favorite seasonal sight and the perfect holiday photo opportunity for visitors. Behind the display is the creativity and expertise of the Myriad Gardens horticulture team. Each year, the team uses color, texture, scale, and imaginative plant combinations to create an immersive display that celebrates both the beauty of the holidays and the art of horticulture.
And while poinsettias have become synonymous with Christmas, they are tropical plants native to Mexico and Central America. Their signature color actually comes from specialized leaves called bracts. The plant’s true flowers are the tiny yellow blooms clustered at the center. Whether you visit for horticultural inspiration, a favorite holiday tradition, the perfect photo beside the poinsettia tree, or simply a warm escape on a cold winter day, the Crystal Bridge offers a chance to experience the season in full bloom. Experience the winter horticulture show inside the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory from mid-November through December 31, 2026. Sponsored by Devon Energy
DEVON ICE RINK Friday, November 13, 2026 - Sunday, January 31, 2027
HOURS
Monday – Thursday | 3PM – 9PM Friday | 3PM – 11PM Saturday | 11AM – 11PM Sunday | 11AM – 7PM Visit myriadgardens.org/devonicerink for holiday hours. Opening date is weather permitting and subject to change.
Extended Holiday Hours throughout the season. Visit myriadgardens.org/devonicerink
Holiday Fun Starts Here!
Looking for a unique way to celebrate your party? Look no further than Oklahoma City’s favorite outdoor skating rink, the Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Botanical Gardens! Whether it’s a birthday, corporate gathering, or any special occasion, our splendid rink offers the perfect winter wonderland backdrop. For guests of all ages, with plenty of space to skate and socialize in picturesque views and the festive atmosphere of Downtown OKC.
Standard Party Rental: $200
Includes: • 1.5 hours of VIP Seating Area for up to 20 guests near the Devon Ice Rink • Guaranteed 8 Ice Skate Rentals – ($12 per additional skater)
Corporate Party Rental:
Please email rentals@myriadgardens.org for availability and pricing.
ADMISSION
$15 per person, including skate rentals $12 per person if you bring your own skates $12 per person with military ID Myriad Gardens members skate for $12 includes skate rentals Group Rate (10 or more guests) is $12 per person including skates. Advance reservation required for groups. Call 405.708.6499. Penguin Skate Assistant $10 per hour with ID
Book Your Event Celebration Today!
Slots fill up quickly, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to create lasting winter memories. Contact us at rentals@myriadgardens.org to reserve your date and start planning your perfect winter wonderland celebration.
Tinsel and Tonic Holiday Pop-Up Bar Tinsel and Tonic Holiday Pop-Up Bar Follow @myriadgardens on social for opening dates and details!
Find Something Wonderful
TAKE A LITTLE PIECE OF THE GARDENS HOME WITH YOU, OR FIND THE PERFECT GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL, AT THE MYRIAD GIFT SHOP. Located inside Myriad Botanical Gardens, the shop features a thoughtfully curated collection of unique finds for all ages. Browse home décor and candles, books and puzzles, plush animals and toys, art and accessories, plus a selection of products made right here in Oklahoma. Looking for a small keepsake from your visit? Pick up a postcard, magnet, or other Garden-inspired memento. With new merchandise arriving throughout the year, there’s always something new to discover, and the holiday season is the perfect time to shop local to find gifts you won’t see everywhere else.
Mug $16.99
Trinket Tray $14.99
Gardenland is a whimsical, nature-inspired collection designed by Caitlin for Danica Studio. The artwork offers a magnified glimpse of garden life, featuring an eclectic mix of ferns, florals, gliding snails, slithering snakes, and jumping frogs.
Myriad Gardens members receive 10% off purchases in the Myriad Gift Shop just one more way your membership pays off throughout the year.
Mousy $32 Mousy Plush by Bukowski. Add a little autumn magic to your space with Mousy! These adorable mice are dressed for the season. Soft and full of fall personality, Mousy makes a delightful seasonal accent or a great gift for anyone.
Gingham Pumpkin Sweatshirt $75
Fall Icon Trucker Hat
Robe
$36
$225
Sweatshirt and Hat by Shiraleah. Cozy up for fall in this Super-soft relaxed sweatshirt featuring a charming pumpkin and sweet pink bow. Pair it with the coordinating hat complete with a playful pink brim and matching pumpkin. Both perfect for crisp autumn days and celebrating the season.
Monday–Saturday | 9AM–5PM Sunday | 11AM–5PM
Midnight Gallery Eco-Satin Robe by Printfresh: This enchanting robe features magical creatures on a background of an inky night sky. This robe is a plant based silky Eco Satin that drapes softly into a roomy silhouette. Perfect for wearing when you are enjoying a warm cup of tea or having midnight margaritas.
Your Visit Makes a Difference
A walk through thousands of pumpkins. An evening surrounded by twinkling holiday lights. A class that inspires a new love of gardening. A gift found in the shop. A membership that brings your family back throughout the year. Every time you experience Myriad Botanical Gardens or Scissortail Park, you’re doing more than making memories; you’re helping these downtown destinations thrive. Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park are managed and operated by a nonprofit organization in partnership with the City of Oklahoma City. While public funding provides important support, it covers only a portion of what it takes to care for these spaces and provide the programs, events, and experiences our community enjoys throughout the year. The rest must be generated through fundraising, sponsorships, grants, memberships, rentals, donations, and other earned revenue. That makes experiences like Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens and SPARKLE at Scissortail Park especially important. These signature events are two of our largest fundraisers of the year, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit foundations that support each property. So, when you travel the Road to Route 66 at Pumpkinville this fall or make SPARKLE part of your family’s holiday traditions, your ticket has an impact long after your visit is over. Your support helps care for gardens and green spaces, create educational opportunities, provide community programming, welcome visitors from near and far, and ensure Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park remain vibrant destinations for years to come. And tickets are just one way to make a difference. Become a member. Attend an event. Take a class. Shop for a gift. Host a celebration. Volunteer. Make a donation. Bring a friend for their first visit. However you choose to participate, your visit makes a difference. Support our Annual Fund at myriadgardens.org/give or scissortailpark.org/support-the-park.
Growing Opportunities:
Become a Volunteer at Myriad Botanical Gardens & Scissortail Park Hello! My name is Diana Davis, and I am the Volunteer Coordinator for Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park. I joined the organization earlier this year and have enjoyed getting to know the incredible volunteers who help make our gardens and park such special places. My background includes guest services and volunteer engagement, and I am passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect with nature, give back to the community, and make lasting friendships through service.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, gardening, and caring for my three cats. My favorite flower is the lily, which symbolizes growth and renewal. That spirit of growth is something I see every day in our volunteers and the impact they have on our community. Whether you are looking to meet new people, learn new skills, support educational programs, or simply spend more time in nature, there is a volunteer opportunity waiting for you.
Find Your Perfect Volunteer Opportunity Horticulture Volunteers
Education Program Volunteers
Garden Greeters
Event Volunteers
Do you enjoy gardening or spending time outdoors? Our horticulture volunteers help maintain the beautiful landscapes throughout the Gardens and Park.
Garden Greeters are often the first people visitors meet when entering the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory.
Education volunteers help inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of nature through hands-on programming.
Throughout the year, volunteers play an important role in supporting special events, festivals, markets, and community activities.
Large Group Volunteer Opportunities We welcome businesses, schools, community organizations, faith groups, and civic organizations for meaningful volunteer projects.
Ready to Volunteer? Getting Started is Easy 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Scan the QR code below to visit VolunteerHub. Create your volunteer account. Complete your volunteer profile. Browse available opportunities and choose the roles that interest you. Sign up for volunteer shifts that fit your schedule.
Once your account is created, you’ll be able to view upcoming opportunities throughout Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park, including special events, horticulture projects, educational programs, and seasonal volunteer opportunities.
Scan the QR Code to Get Started Questions about volunteering or group volunteer opportunities? Contact Diana Davis at volunteers@myriadgardens.org
The Scenic Route: Rethinking Roadside Beauty
BY KAITLIN BACON, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Happy 100th birthday to Route 66, the legendary “Mother Road!” Established in 1926, Route 66 quickly evolved from a simple route from Chicago to LA to a symbol of American independence and freedom. It harkened the promise of adventure, experienced stop by stop through roadside diners, neon signs, gas stations, and wide-open views. It became an experience in and of itself, birthing the concept of the American roadtrip and cementing in the American culture a century of memory-making and coast-to-coast adventure. But as we celebrate its history, we might consider asking a different question: What should the American roadside look like in the next 100 years? On October 22, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Highway Beautification Act, spearheaded by his wife and renowned conservationist First Lady Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson. The Act encouraged landscaping and scenic improvements along our nation’s roads while limiting the overexpansion of billboards and visual junkyards. Its initial premise was simple, but combined with Lady Bird’s vision for vibrant and native ecologies, organizations and municipalities would begin to start contemplating a step further. What if a beautiful roadside is not necessarily one with perfectly manicured grass and ornamental plants, but one filled with native wildflowers, grasses, pollinators, birds, and other signs of a healthy ecosystem? Highways can be tough places for nature. They divide habitats, disturb soil, and create barriers for wildlife, and yet the land surrounding and between roads also represents a huge network of spaces that could support native vegetation and other species. The Texas Department of Transportation initiated a native beautification project in the 1930s to preserve and display the Bluebonnet through delayed mowing and seed distribution, an effort that sees millions drive through the state each spring to observe and adore the sight. The I-35 Monarch Highway initiative launched in 2016 to restore and protect pollinator habitats along the Monarch butterfly’s primary migration flyway, spearheaded by six states (Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Minnesota), the Federal Highway Administration, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. With thoughtful management, roadsides can provide habitat, reduce erosion, improve water quality, and create connections between fragmented ecosystems. Replacing unnecessary mowing with native plantings, controlling invasive species, and allowing regionally appropriate vegetation to grow can make transportation corridors more ecologically valuable. As Route 66 enters its second century, perhaps we will continue to develop our considerations for what it means to make a road “beautiful.” With the inspiration of the Mother Road in our hearts, the next generation of American roads could celebrate not only where they take us, but also the landscapes, wildlife, and communities they pass through. After all, the best road trips have never been just about reaching the destination. They have always been about the experiences along the way.
SAVE THE DATE Into the Orchids January 15 – February 28, 2027 Step into a storybook world where imagination takes root and orchids bring the pages to life. Into the Orchids transforms the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory into an enchanting horticultural experience inspired by the wonder, adventure, and magic of classic stories. Wander through imaginative displays filled with colorful orchids, lush tropical plants, and unexpected details designed to transport visitors into a world where horticulture and storytelling meet. Into the Orchids January 15 - February 28, 2027 Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory Save the date and get ready to step into the story.
Crystal Orchid Awards Return in 2027 The Crystal Orchid Awards sponsored by BancFirst return in 2027 for a special luncheon celebrating an individual whose contributions have made a lasting impact on Myriad Botanical Gardens and our community. Guests will also have the opportunity to experience Into the Orchids, this year’s Orchid Show inside the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory. The 2027 Crystal Orchid Award recipient and luncheon date will be announced soon. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Director of Development, Lauren Brockman, at 405.774.9922 or development@myriadgardens.org to learn more.
SPARKLE: Holiday Magic That Gives Back This holiday season, SPARKLE Holiday Walk returns to Scissortail Park, transforming a portion of the Park into an immersive experience filled with colorful lights, festive displays, and plenty of opportunities to make merry memories. Designed as an affordable holiday outing for families, friends, and visitors, SPARKLE offers a walkable experience in the heart of downtown, surrounded by the Oklahoma City skyline and the beauty of the Park.
Best of all, the holiday magic gives back. SPARKLE is a fundraiser benefiting the Scissortail Park Foundation. Proceeds help support the free concerts, community events, educational opportunities, and year-round programming that bring people together at Scissortail Park. For approximately five hours each event night, a small portion of the Park becomes the ticketed SPARKLE experience, while the majority of Scissortail Park remains open for everyone to enjoy.
Come for the lights. Help the Park shine all year. Sponsored by BancFirst, Delta Dental, Tinker Federal Credit Union, and VisitOKC.
SPARKLE Holiday Walk
Thursdays–Sundays November 19–December 13 | 5:30–9:30 PM Open Daily December 17–January 1 | 5:30–9:30 PM
SPARKLE Holiday Markets
Saturday, November 28 | 5:30-9:30PM Saturday, December 12 | 5:30-9:30PM Tickets available at scissortailpark.org/sparkle beginning on November 1, 2026.
Ring in 2027 at Scissortail Park! Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the heart of downtown OKC at NYE Party in the Park! Enjoy live music at the Love’s Travel Stops Stage, holiday vendors, food trucks, and beverages before joining the official countdown to 2027. At midnight, look to the sky for a spectacular drone show presented by Tinker Federal Credit Union.
Thursday, December 31 | 7:30PM-12:30AM Love’s Travel Stops Stage | FREE
Sponsored by Inasmuch Foundation, Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership, and VisitOKC. Drone show presented by Tinker Federal Credit Union.
SCISSORTAIL PARK EVENTS OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
United Way’s “The Hole Shebang”
Dia De Los Muertos 2026
SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
Sunday, November 1
Breakthrough T1D
Thursday, December 3 – Sunday, December 6
Saturdays in October | 9am –1pm October 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31
Right Heart Fight 2026
Studio J Pac Christmas Show 2026
BarkWalk 2026
Kids on Mission Parade & Family Fest
SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
Thursday, October 1
Farmers Market at Scissortail Park
Saturday, October 3
R&B Festival 2026 Sunday, October 4
Hispanic Fiesta
Saturday, October 10
Voices OKC 2nd Annual Testimony Trail Wednesday, October 14
Red Earth Festival Saturday, October 17
LLS Light the Night Friday, October 23
Alzheimer’s Walk 2026 Saturday, October 24
Komen OKC More Than Pink Walk Saturday, October 31
Saturday, November 7 Saturday, November 7
Saturday, November 7
Red Coyote ½ Marathon Sunday, November 8
Griffin Grit 6K
Saturday, November 14
SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
Thursday, November 19 – Sunday, November 22
Panda Fest
Saturday, November 21 & Sunday, November 22
SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
Thursday, November 26 – Sunday, November 29
SPARKLE Holiday Market Saturday, November 28
Sunday, December 6
Thursday, December 10 – Sunday, December 13
SPARKLE Holiday Market Saturday, December 12
The Giving Machines at Scissortail Park
Friday, December 11 – Saturday, January 2
SPARKLE Holiday Walk at Scissortail Park
Thursday, December 17 – Friday, January 1
NYE Party at the Park Thursday, December 31
*Events are weather permitting and subject to change.
Your Celebration Belongs Here
You come to Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park for concerts, festivals, classes and community events. But some of the best memories made here are the ones you create yourself. From birthday parties and family celebrations to company gatherings and holiday get-togethers, both downtown destinations offer distinctive spaces for occasions of all sizes. Choose from intimate garden settings, open lawns, pavilions, and other outdoor spaces, all surrounded by some of Oklahoma City’s most recognizable scenery. And this winter, there’s an especially cool way to celebrate. Birthday party packages at the Devon Ice Rink combine skating with a festive downtown setting for a celebration that’s anything but ordinary.
Explore our spaces and start planning your event. Email rentals@myriadgardens.org or rentals@scissortailpark.org to start the process.
Hosting an event at Myriad Gardens or Scissortail Park also has an impact beyond your celebration. Rental revenue helps support the care, programming, and operations of these community spaces throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering now or looking ahead to a milestone celebration, meeting, reunion, or special event, our Rentals team can help you find the right place to make it memorable.
Non-Profit Org. US Postage Paid Okla. City, OK Permit No. 100
301 W Reno Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 myriadgardens.org
GIVE A GIFT THAT LASTS ALL YEAR Give more beauty. More discovery. More time together. A Myriad Gardens membership is a gift filled with experiences to enjoy throughout the year, and every membership helps support the nonprofit behind the Gardens.
Give a Membership this holiday season! Visit myriadgardens.org/membership, call 405.445.7087, or email member@myriadgardens.org for more information.