Bellingrath Gardens

Yoga in the Gardens
2025-09-06 08:30 - 09:30 (America/Chicago)
Join us for a serene and invigorating session of Yoga in the Gardens at the beautiful Bellingrath Gardens & Home. Led by Maryella of Above and Beyond Yoga Studio, this exclusive event promises to be a rejuvenating experience that combines the art of yoga with the natural beauty of our gardens.
Prepare for the Class
To ensure the best yoga experience in the peaceful surroundings of Bellingrath, please bring the following:

Yoga mat
Towel
Water bottle

Give yourself a few extra minutes to check in and head to the class location: Live Oak Plaza.
Please note that class may move indoors due to weather.
Member: Free | Non-member: General Admission
Connect with Nature and Community
This Yoga in the Gardens event is not just a class; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, you will find a welcoming space to stretch, strengthen, and relax among the tranquil surroundings.
Plan Your Visit

Date: September 6th
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home | Live Oak Plaza
Purchase Tickets

Scarecrow Setup Days
2025-09-15 08:00 - 2025-09-19 17:00
Celebrate fall with creativity, community spirit, and a touch of whimsy at Bellingrath Gardens & Home!
Join us for our annual Scarecrows in the Gardens exhibition—open to families, local businesses, schools, artists, individuals, and civic or service organizations. Design and build your own scarecrow to be featured throughout the Gardens during this festive fall display. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to get involved, showcase your imagination, and enjoy the beauty of the season.
This event is open to:

Families
Schools
Local businesses
Artists
Civic and service organizations
Individuals of all ages

Included with Registration:

2 complimentary daytime admissions to the Gardens during the exhibition period.
Scarecrow display space within the Gardens (placement determined by Garden staff).

Setup Dates & Times:
Scarecrow installation will take place from Monday, September 15 through Friday, September 19, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Participants must indicate their preferred setup date and time, as well as the number of people who will assist with installation.
Please note: Placement of each scarecrow will be assigned by the Bellingrath horticulture team.
Awards:

People’s Choice Award – Voted on by Garden guests during the exhibition.
Executive Director’s Choice – Selected by Bellingrath’s Executive Director.

Winners will be announced on Bellingrath’s social media platforms and in our e-newsletter.
Why You Should Enter:

Be part of a beloved Bellingrath fall tradition
Engage with the local community in a creative and meaningful way
Gain exposure for your group or organization
Enjoy a day in the Gardens during one of the most beautiful times of year

Click for registration details!
For questions, please contact tblais@bellingrath.org.

NatureNauts Academy: Leafy Learners
2025-09-16 13:00 - 15:00
Ignite Curiosity with Hands-On Science Adventures
Are you looking for an engaging and educational program for your K-8 student? Look no further than NatureNauts Academy at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Our monthly nature science workshops are designed to inspire and educate young minds through interactive STEM challenges and hands-on activities.
Why Attend?

Monthly STEM Challenges: Each month, your child will explore a new nature science topic, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love for learning.
Inclusive for All K-8 Students: Whether your child is homeschooled, or attends private or public school, they are welcome to join our exciting educational adventures.
Led by Certified Educators: Our expert educators create immersive 2-hour sessions filled with fun, interactive learning experiences.

Registration & Fees:

Members: Free
Non-Member: General Admission

Deadline: Ensure your participation by registering one week before the event.
TICKETS
For any questions, reach out to Felicia Henderson at fhenderson@bellingrath.org. Your educational journey is important to us!
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to our sponsors, including the State of Alabama Legislature, The Daniel Foundation of Alabama, BAE Systems, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Alabama, for their unwavering support of the Cultivate program.

Bellingrath Fall Plant Market
2025-09-19 08:00 - 2025-09-21 16:00
Kick off the Great Bellingrath Harvest season with us! The Bellingrath Fall Plant Market returns Friday, September 19 through Sunday, September 21, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Browse a vibrant selection of plants and garden-themed merchandise, all conveniently located in the parking lot in front of the Café and Gift Shop. Members of our horticulture team will be on hand to answer your gardening questions and help you choose the perfect additions to your landscape. Plus join us at noon each day in the Café for Daily Garden Talks with the horticulture team.
Make a weekend of it! On Saturday, September 20, bring the kids for NatureNauts STEM Day, a fun and educational experience designed for young explorers. Shop the Plant Market, then scoot back to the event.
And don’t miss Sunday’s special offer: guests who spend $10 or more at the Plant Market will receive $2 off Gardens—a great reason to shop and stroll!
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on beautiful plants and gardening essentials for the season.

Date: September 19th – 21st
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home

Scarecrows in the Gardens
2025-09-20 08:00 - 2025-11-01 17:00
Step into a world of creativity and fall fun at Scarecrows in the Gardens—an enchanting fall experience like no other! Stroll through the Gardens and discover a delightful display of scarecrows, each uniquely designed and crafted by local organizations, schools, and businesses. From spooky to silly, these charming characters are scattered throughout the scenic pathways, adding a playful touch to your fall visit.
Whether you’re bringing the family, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the seasonal atmosphere, Scarecrows in the Gardens offers something magical for everyone. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite scarecrow as you explore the displays!
Join us for this fun-filled celebration of autumn and creativity, and make sure to experience all the festive events happening during The Great Bellingrath Harvest.
Want to know how to enter your scarecrow? Click here.
Member: Free | Non-member: General Admission

The Great Bellingrath Harvest
2025-09-20 08:00 - 2025-11-08 17:00
Celebrate the beauty of fall during The Great Bellingrath Harvest, a seasonal showcase filled with festive displays, family fun, and unforgettable garden experiences happening September 20 – November 8, 2025!

Fall Plant Market (September 19–21) Shop a vibrant selection of plants and garden merchandise in front of the Café and Gift Shop. Horticulture experts will be on hand to help you find the perfect additions for your landscape.
NatureNauts STEM Day (September 20) Enjoy a morning of hands-on STEM fun and outdoor discovery with interactive exhibits and activities.
Scarecrows in the Gardens (September 20- November 1) Wander the pathways and explore whimsical scarecrow displays created by local schools, businesses, and organizations. Vote for your favorite!
Pumpkin Displays (Throughout October) Snap the perfect fall photo among our charming pumpkin displays throughout the Gardens in October.
Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee (October 25) Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, costume contests, crafts, games, and photo ops in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
62nd Annual Cascading Mums (late October through November) Marvel at the nation’s largest outdoor display of cascading chrysanthemums. Thousands of vivid mums in shades of yellow, red, bronze, and lavender spill from bridges, balconies, urns, and more.

Plan Your Visit

Join us for The Great Bellingrath Harvest and celebrate the splendor of fall with us. Whether you’re here for a day or planning multiple visits, there’s always something to discover and enjoy. Mark your calendars and start planning your visit today!

Date: September 20 – November 8, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

NatureNauts STEM Day
2025-09-20 09:00 - 12:00
Join us for NatureNauts STEM Day, a fun-filled morning of hands-on learning and outdoor exploration for the whole family! Discover the incredible wildlife and ecology of the Gulf Coast through interactive exhibits and activities from a variety of environmental organizations across the region.

Don’t miss the Environmental Studies Center’s Raptor Road Show, an exciting presentation that educates and inspires with live native birds of prey. Shows are at 9:15, 10:15 & 11:15 AM on the Great Lawn.
Cruise Fowl River aboard Historic Blakeley State Park’s Delta Explorer! Scenic 30-minute river cruises will be offered during the event for an additional $13.25 per person. Tour times: 9:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00 & 11:30. Kids 4 and under need to have their own life jacket. Purchase cruise tickets now to ensure you don’t miss out.
WKRG News 5 – Take a Touch-a-Truck style tour of the Weather Beast.
Mobile Public Library Bookmobile will be on-site with books for all ages.
Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Marine Mammal Research Program will offer games, biofacts, and take-home materials.
Scouting America will be here with fun activities and information about scouting programs.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center will feature coral reef models and a sensory bin designed for early childhood learners.
Outdoor Alabama – Alabama Marine Resources – Pick up educational handouts and activity books about Alabama’s coastal resources.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge will display pelts, tracks, and photos of mammals native to Lower Alabama.
Alabama Audubon will offer a “build-a-bird” activity and teach guests how to use binoculars for birdwatching.
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be here with Coastie the robotic tugboat to promote boating and water safety in a fun, engaging way.
Evonik will present an exciting, hands-on chemistry activity for curious minds of all ages.
Bishop State Community College will offer interactive science simulations, display preserved biological specimens and anatomical mannequins, and host mini chemistry experiments.
Mobile Baykeeper – Explore our local waterways with their interactive Watershed Table.
Honey of the Hill Apiary – A fun, educational activity all about bees and their importance.
Alabama Coastal Foundation – Learn about Alabama’s beaches and the Sea Turtle Conservation Program.
Mobile County Public School System (MCPSS) – Try the Floating Raft STEM Challenge, designed for children in grades K–5.
STEM for Kids Mobile Bay – Explore Eco Magic in STEM with a hands-on solar bead activity.
Stories with Ms. Becky – Gather the kids for an engaging story time hosted by Ms. Becky, filled with fun tales that spark imagination.
Mobile Bay National Estuary Program – Try a water quality monitoring test kit activity and learn about the Fowl River Spits restoration project.
Enjoy local food vendors, and grab a bite while you explore the event!

And much more! From surprise activities to hands-on nature fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Cruise tickets are available while supplies last. Mark your calendar for a day of science, nature, and family fun.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to also stop by the Fall Plant Market and shop a vibrant selection of plants and garden-themed merchandise. We’ll even have a “plant hotel” on-site so you can check your purchases and keep them safe and cool while you enjoy the STEM Day festivities.

Date: September 20th
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Garden Walk & Talk
2025-09-24 10:30 - 11:30
Experience the beauty of Bellingrath Gardens in every season during our Garden Walk & Talk, held on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This engaging monthly garden tour is led by our knowledgeable horticulture experts, who share insights into what’s blooming, garden care tips, and behind-the-scenes details about our historic landscape.
Garden Walk & Talk is open to the public – the tour is included with regular Gardens admission, and it’s free for Bellingrath members. No advance registration required.
Join us each month to connect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the Gardens!

Date: September 24, 2025
Time: 10:30- 11:30 PM
Buy Tickets

Yoga in the Gardens
2025-09-27 08:30 - 09:30
Join us for a serene and invigorating session of Yoga in the Gardens at the beautiful Bellingrath Gardens & Home. Led by Kathleen of Above and Beyond Yoga Studio, this exclusive event promises to be a rejuvenating experience that combines the art of yoga with the natural beauty of our gardens.
Prepare for the Class
To ensure the best yoga experience in the peaceful surroundings of Bellingrath, please bring the following:

Yoga mat
Towel
Water bottle

Give yourself a few extra minutes to check in and head to the class location: Live Oak Plaza.
Please note that class may move indoors due to weather.
Member: Free | Non-member: General Admission
Connect with Nature and Community
This Yoga in the Gardens event is not just a class; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, you will find a welcoming space to stretch, strengthen, and relax among the tranquil surroundings.
Plan Your Visit

Date: September 27th
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home | Live Oak Plaza
Purchase Tickets

Photography Night
2025-09-28 16:00 - 19:00
Bring your favorite photographer and join us for a magical evening at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Photography Night is the perfect opportunity to capture stunning family photos, engagement shoots, senior portraits, maternity photos, baby photos, or any special occasion at a special reduced rate.
*As the sun sets, please be aware that we do not have permanent lighting throughout the Gardens. Photography Nights offer a shared space, so please be respectful of other guests.
Members and children under 4: Free | Non-members: $20 per Adult, $10 Child (5-12)
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to snap Instagram worthy shots in a stunning setting!

Date: September 28th
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

NatureNauts Academy: Pumpkins Galore
2025-10-03 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-13 13:00 - 15:00

Chinese Whispers
2025-10-08 10:30 - 11:30
Discovering Asian Influence in the Bellingrath Collection
Join us for a captivating presentation by Bellingrath Home Museum Director Tom McGehee. For centuries, the West has been captivated by the art and symbolism of China—and this fascination is reflected in American interiors of the 19th century. You’ll see highlights of exquisite Chinese ceramics, metals, furniture, and textiles found within the Bellingrath collection. Learn how these elegant pieces bring an Eastern influence to the estate’s otherwise Western design, and uncover the deeper meanings behind their motifs.
Free for members | Included with regular Gardens admission for non-members.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the Gardens and learn something you did know.

Date: October 8th
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Photography Night
2025-10-12 16:00 - 19:00
Bring your favorite photographer and join us for a magical evening at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Photography Night is the perfect opportunity to capture stunning family photos, engagement shoots, senior portraits, maternity photos, baby photos, or any special occasion at a special reduced rate.
*As the sun sets, please be aware that we do not have permanent lighting throughout the Gardens. Photography Nights offer a shared space, so please be respectful of other guests.
Members and children under 4: Free | Non-members: $20 per Adult, $10 Child (5-12)
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to snap Instagram worthy shots in a stunning setting!

Date: October 12th
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Todd Talks With Executive Director, Dr. Todd Lasseigne
2025-10-14 10:30 - 11:30
Chrysanthemums via Japan
Chrysanthemums have been bred and developed over centuries by the Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures. Today, we view these plants as floral crops that signify the arrival of autumn. Join Todd for an engaging discussion on the diversity of displaying chrysanthemums in Japan.
This presentation is perfect for anyone with a love for nature and a curiosity about the botanical world. Dr. Lasseigne’s passion and expertise will inspire you and deepen your appreciation for the natural splendors of Bellingrath Gardens.
Free for members | Included with regular Gardens admission for non-members.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the intriguing processes involved in creating our seasonal displays.

Date: October 14th
Time: 10:30 PM – 11:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Mums Tour
2025-10-22 10:00 - 11:30
Experience the splendor of autumn at Bellingrath with a guided Mums Tour! Go behind the scenes to see where the magic begins, exploring the greenhouses where thousands of cascading chrysanthemums are grown and cared for. Along the way, our expert guide will share insights into the care, design, and history behind this beloved fall tradition.
Member: Free | Non-member: General Admission
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss your chance to gain a deeper appreciation for these spectacular blooms.

Date: October 22nd
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Cultivate: K-3 Educators
2025-10-24 08:00 - 11:00
Cultivate Your Teaching Skills: Professional Development at Bellingrath Gardens
Unlock a world of inspiration and innovation for your classroom! Join us at Bellingrath Gardens & Home for our Cultivate Professional Development Sessions. Designed exclusively for educators, this event is the perfect opportunity to enrich your teaching toolkit with fresh STEM mini-lesson ideas and resources.
Why Attend?

Enhance Your STEM Teaching: Immerse yourself in practical, plant science-based STEM lessons tailored to the Alabama Course of Study.
Professional Development Hours: Receive a certificate for three PD credit hours as you broaden your professional expertise.
Take Home Resources: Leave not just with knowledge, but with a bin of STEM resources to bring your lessons to life.
Incredible Scholarship Opportunity: Get 90% off the program cost by completing a simple scholarship appreciation.

Deadline: Ensure your participation by registering one week before the event.
Quick Details

Deadline: Register one week prior to the event.
Venue: Magnolia Room, next to the Café.
Preparation: Bring a notebook, pen, and your cell phone for photos.
Attire: Comfortable clothing suitable for a garden walk.

Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help!
For any questions, reach out to Felicia Henderson at fhenderson@bellingrath.org. Your educational journey is important to us!
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to our sponsors, including the State of Alabama Legislature, The Daniel Foundation of Alabama, BAE Systems, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Alabama, for their unwavering support of the Cultivate program.
Join the Cultivate Experience
Don’t miss out on this transformative professional development opportunity. Register today, and let’s cultivate the future of STEM education together!
TICKETS

Cultivate: Grades 4-6 Educators
2025-10-24 12:00 - 15:00

Members' Morning Coffee
2025-10-25 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for a peaceful start to the day at our Members’ Morning Coffee. This special gathering is a chance for members to enjoy complimentary coffee, light refreshments, and friendly conversation while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens. Take time to unwind, connect with fellow members, and experience the charm of Bellingrath in the morning hours.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit

Date: October 25th
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Purchase Tickets

Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee
2025-10-25 16:00 - 20:00
This event is packed with Halloween-themed fun for all ages. Enjoy trick-or-treating stations, costume contests, and a range of activities designed to bring out the Halloween spirit.
Event Details

Date: October 25, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582

Event Highlights

Trick-or-Treating

Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Description: Wander the beautifully decorated Gardens and collect candy from themed treat stations. Don’t forget your trick-or-treat bag!

Costume Contests

Time: 6:00 PM
Description: Show off your spooky, funny, or creative costume for a chance to win prizes in the following categories:

Best Kids Costume
Best Adult Costume
Best Group Costume

Halloween Activities

Description: Enjoy a frightfully fun range of hands-on and family-friendly Halloween activities:

Pumpkin Carving Contest
Petting Zoo by Coastal Farms & Exotics. Meet a camel, llama, mini cow, mini donkey, kangaroo, and more!
Lawn Games (Connect Four, Giant Jenga, etc.)

Food & Amenities
Burgers & Hot Dogs: Grilled hamburgers and Nathan’s hot dogs with several topping options
Desserts: Cotton candy, s’mores pits, Halloween-themed cookies & cupcakes
Beverages – Beer, wine, glass-bottle Cokes
Free on-site parking

Want to Participate?

Become a Treater and host a candy station! Contact: Thomas Blais at tblais@bellingrath.org

Plan Your Visit
To ensure you have the best experience at the Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee, here’s a quick checklist:

Wear your best Halloween costume
Bring a trick-or-treat bag
Arrive early to enjoy all activities
Have your camera ready for memorable moments
Bring bug spray for a comfortable evening outdoors

Get ready for a spooktacular time at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Make sure to mark your calendars, invite your friends, and prepare for a Halloween celebration like no other.
Don’t miss out on this family-friendly event filled with fun, laughter, and, of course, lots of candy!
Purchase Tickets Now!

Garden Walk & Talk
2025-10-29 10:30 - 11:30
Experience the beauty of Bellingrath Gardens in every season during our Garden Walk & Talk, held on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This engaging monthly garden tour is led by our knowledgeable horticulture experts, who share insights into what’s blooming, garden care tips, and behind-the-scenes details about our historic landscape.
Garden Walk & Talk is open to the public – the tour is included with regular Gardens admission, and it’s free for Bellingrath members. No advance registration required.
Join us each month to connect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the Gardens!

Date: October 29, 2025
Time: 10:30- 11:30 PM
Purchase Tickets

NatureNauts Academy: The Great Seed Escape
2025-10-30 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-11 13:00 - 15:00

A Charmed Holiday Evening: Gift Shop Christmas Open House & Fashion Show
2025-11-06 17:30 - 19:30
Step into the holiday spirit at Bellingrath’s Gift Shop Christmas Open House & Fashion Show! Enjoy an evening of festive décor, seasonal shopping, and exclusive holiday finds. Members receive a 20% discount on all purchases during the event, and guests can sip wine and enjoy light refreshments while exploring beautiful Christmas decorations, gifts, and holiday treasures. Be the first to see our fashion show previewing new seasonal collections, and enter for a chance to win exciting door prizes throughout the evening. Celebrate the season in style at a truly charmed spot of the South—you won’t want to miss it!
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to treat yourself and get ahead on your gift game!

Date: Thursday, November 6th
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Gift Shop & Café

Oyster Shell Christmas Ornament Class
2025-11-07 10:30 - 11:30
Create one-of-a-kind holiday keepsakes in this festive, hands-on workshop! Guests will transform oyster shells into beautiful Christmas ornaments, perfect for decorating your tree or giving as heartfelt gifts. All supplies are provided, and no experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and holiday spirit.
Member: $25 | Non-member: $35
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to bring a touch of coastal charm to your holiday décor!

Date: November 7th
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

CANCELED | Membership Appreciation Game Night
2025-11-08 17:30 - 19:00
*THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO LOW SIGN-UPS*
We invite you to join us for a special evening of fun, connection, and camaraderie at our Membership Appreciation Game Night! Gather with fellow members outdoors to enjoy classic lawn games like Connect 4, cornhole, and more. This relaxed event is all about celebrating you, our valued members, who help keep the spirit of Bellingrath alive. Come share in the fun, make new memories, and enjoy the simple joy of being in the Gardens.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the Gardens after hours and let us thank you for being part of the Bellingrath family.

Date: November 8th
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Todd Talks With Executive Director, Dr. Todd Lasseigne
2025-11-12 10:30 - 11:30
Go behind the scenes with Executive Director Dr. Todd Lasseigne for an exclusive look at how Bellingrath forces iconic holiday plants like poinsettias and Christmas cacti into bloom just in time for the season. Through live demonstrations and expert insight, Todd will share the timing, techniques, and horticultural know-how that bring these festive favorites to life. Whether you’re a home gardener or simply curious, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the work that goes into creating Bellingrath’s holiday magic.
This presentation is perfect for anyone with a love for nature and a curiosity about the botanical world. Dr. Lasseigne’s passion and expertise will inspire you and deepen your appreciation for the natural splendors of Bellingrath Gardens.
Free for members | Included with regular Gardens admission for non-members.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to revel in the science and strategy behind perfectly timed holiday blooms.

Date: November 12th
Time: 10:30 PM – 11:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Ink & Insight: Author Joe Cuhaj
2025-11-14 10:30 - 11:30
Joe Cuhaj is a Navy veteran and former radio personality turned author and freelance writer. His first book, Hike America Alabama (later renamed Hiking Alabama) was published in 2000 by Globe Pequot Press. That was the beginning of Joe’s writing career. Since that time, Joe has authored 13 outdoor recreational guides on hiking, paddling, and camping in Alabama and the Gulf Coast.
Joe has also written seven nonfiction history books for Prometheus Books, Arcadia Publishing, and History Press, on a wide variety of subjects including space exploration, little known American history, and titles covering the history of Mobile, Alabama, and Alabama.
Joe’s latest books include The Pig War and the Pelican Girls (2024, Prometheus Books) that tells little known, forgotten, and obscure tales of American history. Joe also has another book coming out on October 14, 2025, Notable Alabama Women, a biography of 50 women from the state or who came to the state and made a difference not only in Alabama, but the world.
Joe is now working on a cozy mystery series set in a radio station in a Gulf Coast port city in 1943. The series is currently under consideration by several agents.
Bibliography:
· Alabama Curiosities (Globe Pequot Press, late 2025)
· Alabama’s Notable Women (History Press, 2025)
· The Pig War and Pelican Girls (Spring 2025, Prometheus Books)
· Everyone’s Gone to the Moon: July 1969, Life on Earth, and the Epic Voyage of Apollo 11 (Prometheus Books, October 2023)
· Best Easy Day Hikes Birmingham (Fall 2023, Falcon Books)
· A Travel Lover’s Guide to Mobile and the Alabama Gulf Coast
(2023, History Press)
· Space Oddities: Forgotten Stories of Mankind’s Exploration of Space
(Prometheus Books, 2022)
· Hiking Alabama (5th Edition, 2022, Falcon Books)
· Hiking Waterfalls Alabama (2021, Falcon Books)
· Paddling Alabama (2021, Falcon Books – 2nd Edition)
· Hidden History of Mobile (2020, History Press)
· Best Dog Hikes Alabama (2019, Falcon Books)
· Hiking Through History Alabama (2016, Falcon Books)
· Hiking the Gulf Coast (2015, Falcon Books)
· Hiking Alabama (2014, Falcon Books – 4th Edition)
· Best Tent Camping Alabama (2013, Menasha Ridge Press)
· Hiking Alabama (2007, Falcon Books – 3rd Edition)
· Baseball in Mobile (2004, Arcadia Publishing)
· Hiking Alabama (2003, Falcon Books – 2nd Edition)
· Paddling Alabama (2002, Falcon Books – 1st Edition)
· Freelance Writer, Various (2002-Present)
· Hiking Alabama (2000 / 2001, Beachway Press/Falcon Books)
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss the chance to hear from Joe Cuhaj—Navy veteran, outdoor expert, and author of over 20 books—on untold history, Alabama adventures, and the art of storytelling.

Date: November 14th
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Buy Tickets

Included with Gardens Admission or Membership

Magnolia Wreath Workshop
2025-11-15 09:00 - 10:00
Create a stunning magnolia wreath in this hands-on workshop and learn the art of crafting with one of the South’s most beloved evergreens. Guided by our instructors, you’ll design and assemble a beautiful wreath on an 18-inch wire frame that brings timeless elegance to your holiday décor. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a first-time creator, this workshop is the perfect way to add a classic, handmade touch to your seasonal celebrations. Space is limited and reservations are required in advance.
Member: $75 | Non-member: $85 (Gardens Admission included)
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn a timeless Japanese garden art and enjoy a day of creativity.

Date: November 15th
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

30th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights Preview Party
2025-11-15 18:00 - 21:00
Be among the first to experience the holiday magic! Join us for a one-night-only Preview Gala on Saturday, November 15, and stroll through the dazzling holiday wonderland before it opens to the public. Enjoy cocktails, savor elegant heavy hors d’oeuvres, and take in a guided tour of the beautifully decorated Bellingrath Home. Plus, you’ll be the first to witness the unveiling of an all-new Christmas scene, created for this milestone year.
Adding to the excitement, The Mobile Big Band Society will fill the evening with the timeless sounds of the Big Band Era. This 18–20 piece swing band features 5 saxophones, 2–4 trombones, 2–4 trumpets, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and at least one vocalist, performing favorites from the 1940s through the 70s and up to today. Organized in 2009, they’ve been preserving and promoting big band music ever since—making this a truly unforgettable musical experience!
Menu by Stevie’s Kitchen

Mini Kibbe Balls with Sweet Sour Glaze
Stuffed Phyllo with Pimento and Cream Cheese
Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Cherry Bomb Glaze
Raspberry Brie en croute
Honey Sriracha Chicken Meatballs
Salmon Crostini with Pimento and Cream Cheese and Dill
Quail Wellington
Fried Turkey and Ham with Pomegranate Glaze and Rolls
Mini Torts – Raspberry and Key Lime
Mini Christmas Petit Fours

Tickets are $150 for individuals ($125 for members). Gather your friends and reserve a table for eight for $1,200, or elevate your experience with a VIP Front Row Table for eight at $1,600, which includes special parking and table beverage service. This enchanting evening will sell out—reserve your spot early!
Festive attire requested: ladies in red and gentlemen in black.

Date: November 15, 2025
Time: 6:00- 9:00 PM
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