Summer at the Highlands Center brings the arts into the natural world with our 6th annual Shakespeare in the Pines fundraiser. And, the James Family Discovery Gardens, the only accessible, native botanical garden of its kind in the Prescott area, provides the perfect day outing or site for a special event. Who could ask for more? We’ll see you on the trails.
Shakespeare in the Pines
The picturesque, natural setting of Ponderosa pines is the perfect site for “The Winter’s Tale,” a lively evening of Shakespearean entertainment. On June 14-15 and June 21-22, for the sixth summer, Shakespeare in the Pines takes place in the Highlands Center’s outdoor amphitheater.
The evening begins with an opening reception, catered by El Gato Azul, with brews from Prescott Brewing Company, wine, coffee and desserts from Petite Treats. Laark Productions invite the audience to become part of the play as the cast begins the performance among the guests at the reception.
Tickets to “The Winter’s Tale,” a fairy tale filled with love and loss, innocence and betrayal, are $60 per person. The proceeds from these tickets support the center’s nature-based programs for children. Call 928-776-9550 or go to highlandscenter.org. Presented by Lamb Cadillac.
The James Family Discovery Gardens
Come celebrate the beauty and natural diversity of the Central Highlands in our accessible native botanical gardens.
How about a walk in the woods in the Highlands Center’s accessible Discovery Gardens? Stroll along the creek on a paved path through Learning Circles illustrating the natural history of the Central Highlands of Arizona. Bring the kids and play on the boulders, sand box and web in a natural Forest Play area. Listen to birds and the sounds of the forest in the Secret Nook or relax in the shade by the Gathering Circle. Through interpretive signs and displays you can discover how to choose and grow drought tolerant plants for your garden and habitats and harvest water to sustain them. Need a place for an outdoor event in a quiet, pristine forest setting? Rent the new ramada or the entire garden for your wedding or special gathering.
The Discovery Gardens is the only accessible, native botanical garden of its kind in the Prescott area and celebrates the incredible biological diversity of this unique region. Throughout the summer, special events and programs are held in the Garden’s ramada, including our Arthropalooza Family Nature Fest on Saturday, Aug. 17. Check our website for details.
Naturalists will be in the Gardens Saturday mornings to facilitate Discovery Stations on topics such as animals, plants, geology and the cycles in nature. Please check our website for dates for guided Naturalist walks and special events.
The James Family Discovery Gardens are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are free to the public.
The Highlands Center for Natural History
Formed in 1996, the Highlands Center for Natural History is a nonprofit organization developed to foster an appreciation for and knowledge of the natural wonders of the Central Highlands of Arizona. The Highlands Center is a regional hub for lifelong learning, designed to invite discovery of the wonders of nature through on- and off-site programs and includes an inviting venue for community events.
More information is available at highlandscenter.org.
