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Bonnet House Blog

Oct 01
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Celebrate the Season with Holiday Magic at Bonnet House

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Here at Bonnet House, we believe the holiday season is best spent surrounded by beauty, warmth, and the people who matter most. Whether your December is filled with cozy nights by the fire or bustling with festive plans, the true magic of the holidays lies in connection, joy, and shared experiences.

This year, we’re thrilled to invite you to Holiday Magic at Bonnet House, a series of enchanting events designed to bring holiday cheer to Fort Lauderdale. From sparkling lights and live music to whimsical décor and delightful libations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

VIP Opening Reception – Thursday, December 5 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Kick off the season in style at our exclusive VIP Opening Reception. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of holiday splendor with early access to our beautifully decorated estate, festive cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment. This special night sets the tone for a magical month ahead.

✨ Whimsical Wonderland – Friday, December 6 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Step into a storybook setting during our Whimsical Wonderland evening. Perfect for families and guests of all ages, this night features playful holiday décor, sweet treats, and interactive surprises that will delight the young and young-at-heart.

Holiday Magic Evenings – December 10, 11 & 12 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Experience Bonnet House aglow with holiday lights and festive charm. Each evening includes self-guided tours, live music on the veranda, and seasonal refreshments. Plus, all holiday decorations—trees, wreaths, and centerpieces—will be available for purchase, with 100% of proceeds supporting the preservation of Bonnet House.

Here’s what’s in store:

  • Wednesday, December 10: Davis & Dow Jazz Duo brings smooth holiday sounds to the veranda.
  • Thursday, December 11: David Morin, The Man of Many Voices, performs live while guests sip bubbly and explore the transformed estate.
  • Friday, December 12: Cruzin’, South Florida’s dynamic duo, closes out the series with high-energy holiday hits.

We hope you’ll join us for one—or all—of these unforgettable evenings. Whether you’re looking for elegance, whimsy, or musical cheer, Bonnet House is the place to celebrate the season.

Click here to purchase tickets and learn more

Sep 30
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Celebrating Evelyn Fortune Bartlett: A Life of Art and Impact

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Today, we celebrate the birthday of Evelyn Fortune Bartlett (September 30, 1887 – July 1, 1997), a visionary artist, philanthropist, and the heart behind Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.

Born into a prominent Indianapolis family, Evelyn’s life was marked by resilience, creativity, and independence. After a high-profile divorce from Eli Lilly, she found love again with artist Frederic Clay Bartlett, who inspired her to begin painting. Her vibrant oil portraits and floral works were exhibited in major art institutions across the country during the 1930s.

Though she stopped painting in 1938, Evelyn’s passion for the arts never waned. In her later years, she championed cultural preservation, helping to list Bonnet House on the National Register of Historic Places and supporting galleries in Chicago and Massachusetts.

Evelyn lived to be 109, leaving behind a legacy of beauty, strength, and generosity. Her spirit continues to inspire all who visit Bonnet House.

Happy Birthday, Evelyn!

Sep 03
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Uncover the Weird, Wonderful & Obscure: Secret Fort Lauderdale Comes to Bonnet House

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Fort Lauderdale is full of surprises—and not just the ones you find on the beach. From snow days in the ’70s to python-hunting competitions, the city’s history is packed with stories that are as strange as they are fascinating. And now, there’s a book that celebrates all of it.

Secret Fort Lauderdale: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by award-winning journalist Christiana Lilly is a treasure trove of local lore. Whether you’re a lifelong Broward resident or just visiting for the weekend, this book invites you to explore the city’s hidden corners and unexpected past.

Did you know the first woman to get her concealed carry license in Broward County was an archaeologist? Or that a popular concert venue used to be a slaughterhouse? These are just a few of the juicy tidbits you’ll find in this engaging guide. Lilly’s storytelling takes readers beyond the tourist spots and into the archives, back rooms, and forgotten landmarks that make Fort Lauderdale truly unique.

Meet the Author at Bonnet House

Join us for a special Meet & Greet and Book Signing with Christiana Lilly at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens:

Wednesday, October 8, 2025
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $10 (registration required) Click here to register.

During the event, you’ll learn more about the eccentric Evelyn Fortune Bartlett—Bonnet House’s original hostess and one of the many colorful characters featured in the book. You might even leave with the recipe for her iconic cocktail!

This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Fort Lauderdale’s quirky side, meet a celebrated local author, and enjoy the beauty of Bonnet House after hours.

About the Author

Christiana Lilly is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories that make South Florida special. She’s written for local publications and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, and her work has been recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists Florida chapter, the Florida Press Club, and the Florida Magazine Association. She’s also the author of 100 Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale Before You Die.

Sep 03
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Discover Nature at Bonnet House: Birds, Bees & Beyond

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Bonnet House Museum & Gardens isn’t just a historic estate—it’s a vibrant sanctuary for wildlife and a hub for nature lovers. Whether you’re drawn to the flutter of wings or the buzz of bees, our immersive classes offer a unique way to connect with the natural world right here in Fort Lauderdale.

Birding at Bonnet House

With its lush gardens, coastal dunes, and freshwater sloughs, Bonnet House is a haven for birds year-round. From colorful warblers to majestic herons, the property attracts a wide variety of species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.

Our Birding Classes are perfect for beginners and seasoned birders alike. Led by expert guide Paddy Cunningham, these sessions teach you how to identify species by sight and sound, use binoculars effectively, and understand bird behavior and habitats. Upcoming classes are scheduled for Sunday, October 5 and Sunday, November 9, so grab your gear and join us for a morning of discovery! Click here to learn more and register.

Beekeeping: Is It Right for You?

If you’ve ever been curious about the world of bees, our “Is Beekeeping Right for You?” class is a sweet place to start. This introductory class scheduled for Saturday, October 25th, explores the basics of backyard beekeeping, including hive maintenance, bee behavior, and the environmental benefits of supporting pollinators.

You’ll learn from experienced beekeeper Joanna Diamond and get a close-up look at how honey is made, what equipment is needed, and how to decide if beekeeping fits your lifestyle. It’s a fascinating journey into one of nature’s most important ecosystems—and a great way to support sustainability.  Click here to learn more and register.

Why It Matters

Both birds and bees play vital roles in our environment. By learning more about them, you’re not just gaining a new hobby—you’re becoming a steward of nature. Bonnet House is proud to offer educational experiences that inspire curiosity and conservation.

Ready to explore?
Click here to learn more and register for upcoming classes and learn more about our nature programs.

Aug 03
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Broward Attractions and Museums Month (BAMM)

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DISCOVER CULTURAL TREASURES IN YOUR BACKYARD!

September 2025

Adventures await you right outside your door! Discover new artists or ancient artifacts, ride on a riverboat or an airboat, explore a botanical garden and historic house or feed a flamingo…and so much more.

Participating attractions and museums include:

  • Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (BOGO admission *self-guided tours only)
  • Butterfly World (BOGO admission)
  • Coral Springs Museum of Art (Free admission)
  • Flamingo Gardens (BOGO admission)
  • The Frank Art Gallery (Free admission)
  • Historic Stranahan House (BOGO admission *online reservation required)
  • History Fort Lauderdale (BOGO admission)
  • Hollywood Art and Culture Center – Cinema Paradiso (BOGO admission)
  • Island SPACE Caribbean Museum (BOGO admission)
  • Jungle Queen Riverboats (BOGO *90-minute cruises only *online reservation required)
  • MAD Arts (BOGO admission)
  • Museum of Discovery and Science (BOGO admission. Adult purchase required)
  • NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale (BOGO admission)
  • Old Davie School Museum & Event Venue (BOGO admission *online reservation required)
  • Plantation Historical Museum (Free admission)
  • Pompano Beach Historical Society (Free admission *reservation required)
  • Sawgrass Recreation Park (BOGO admission *online reservation required)
  • The Sample McDougald House (BOGO admission)
  • Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library (Free admission)
  • Studio 18 Art Complex (Free admission)
  • Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts (BOGO admission)
  • Young At Art Museum (BOGO admission)

Visitors just need to mention “BAMM” or inquire about the offer at the facility’s ticket booth to purchase one regular price admission and get a second admission of equal or lesser value for free. (Some organizations may offer the discount online using BAMM as the promotional code. Check with participating venues to see if a promotional code is needed for online purchases.)

Participating organizations may have additional restrictions or blackout dates that apply, as well as additional discounted offers available. No other offers, discounts or coupons may apply. Visitors should check each attraction’s website or call for details, hours of operation, and other updates before visiting.

Broward Attractions and Museums Month is September 1-30, 2025. Visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BAMMsfl for additional information.

Jul 17
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Commemorating Helen Birch Bartlett: A Centennial Exhibit

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By Bonnet House Intern, Maria Formoso

My name is Maria Formoso, and I am a senior at the University of Central Florida majoring in History with a minor in Education. This fall, I will begin the Master of Arts in Teaching program at UCF with a focus on social studies education. As part of my undergraduate studies, I’ve had the privilege of completing my history internship at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens; a meaningful opportunity that brought me back to my hometown of Fort Lauderdale and allowed me to contribute to one of the city’s most historic spaces.

Throughout my time at Bonnet House, I have worked closely with Curator of Collections Katie Valli on several projects, the most significant of which was the creation of the Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Exhibit. This special display, now located in the Music Room, honors the 100th anniversary of Helen’s passing and highlights her creative life, her connection to Bonnet House, and her broader cultural legacy.

The exhibit is made up of three key components:

  • A freestanding interpretive panel featuring mounted text and archival photographs that introduce visitors to Helen’s story.
  • A table display containing original items such as handwritten sheet music, personal letters, and books Helen signed and owned.
  • A repurposed travel trunk containing a reproduction copy of Helen’s poetry book, Capricious Winds, available for guests to browse and enjoy.

Over the course of several weeks, I was responsible for researching, drafting, and designing much of the exhibit’s content. I reviewed archival materials, selected objects for display, created a visual layout for the signage, and helped install the physical exhibit elements.

One of the most memorable aspects of the process was the hands-on nature of the work, whether it was mounting signage to foam board, handling original photographs with gloves, or learning about preservation techniques while preparing Helen’s travel trunk. These details, often unseen by the public, are essential to creating thoughtful, accessible exhibits that protect and elevate historical narratives.

Now that the memorial exhibit is complete and open to the public, I’m proud to know that my work will contribute to how Bonnet House visitors experience Helen’s legacy. It’s been incredibly rewarding to help bring her story to life in the same home where she once lived, learned, and created.

I’m incredibly grateful to Curator Katie Valli for her guidance and mentorship throughout this project, and to the entire Bonnet House team for welcoming me so warmly. This internship has been a truly formative experience, and I’m thankful to have contributed to preserving and sharing the history of such a special place.

The Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Exhibit is located in the Music Room and will be on view for one year. We invite you to visit during museum hours:
Tuesday–Friday: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM

 

Jun 09
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Summer at Bonnet House

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Bonnet House is pleased to announce a vibrant lineup of summer programming that blends art, nature, music, and wellness against the backdrop of the lush 35-acre beachfront estate. We invite the community and visitors from all over to enjoy enriching workshops, hands-on classes, family-friendly events, and seasonal specials that celebrate the beauty and legacy of Bonnet House.

This Summer highlights include a Family Summer Special, Father’s Day free admission, a Fine Artist Opening Reception, and a sneak peek at the beloved Holiday Magic celebration, returning December 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12—perfect to mark on your calendars early.

At Bonnet House, visitors are transported back in time to experience life on a 1930s–1940s seaside estate, complete with a whimsical collection of art, architecture, and tranquil nature trails. Self-guided and guided tours offer immersive access to the estate, while a robust calendar of classes, wellness events, and cultural programming adds new reasons to return throughout the year.

Guests can also become Bonnet House Members for just $65, enjoying year-round admission plus discounts on workshops, special events, and more.

To explore the full calendar or register for events, visit www.bonnethouse.org/events.

SUMMER 2025 ONGOING EVENTS AT BONNET HOUSE:

Fine Artist Member Rotating Art Exhibitions
Ongoing with Artists Opening Receptions: Wednesdays, July 9, September 10, November 5, January 7 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Discover the magic of Bonnet House’s quarterly rotating exhibits in the central room of the Gallery! Featuring stunning artwork by talented Bonnet House Fine Artists, each piece is available for purchase. Included with General Admission. More information here.

Family Summer Special
Tuesday, May 27 – Sunday, August 31
Enjoy summer savings! Adults pay $25, and all guests 17 and under enter free.
Cost: $25 for adults, free for 17 and under. More information available by clicking here.

SUMMER 2025 WORKSHOPS, CLASSES AND OTHER EVENTS AT BONNET HOUSE:

Yoga on the Veranda
Friday, July 18 | 9 AM – 10:30 AM
Class led by Lisa Pumper, E-RYT 500, YACEP, a Bonnet House resident teacher, community activator, and founder of Yoga cOMmUNITY of Florida. Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis, surrounded by the healing splendor of nature, while indulging in a Hatha Yoga Flow session accompanied by a blend of global melodies & sound healing on the Veranda of the Bonnet House Museum. During this class, yoga poses will seamlessly blend with breathing exercises in a flow of peaceful and rejuvenating harmony.
Cost: $ 25 advanced / $ 30 at the door (Members: $ 20 advance / $ 25 at the door) Registration recommended.
More information by clicking here.

Father’s Day Special
Sunday, June 15 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free for Dads; regular admission of $25 applies for others.

Fine Artists Opening Receptions
Wednesdays, July 9, September 10, November 5, January 7 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Step into a vibrant celebration of local creativity in the Gallery’s middle room, where the Bonnet House Fine Artists’ Exhibits showcase a rotating collection of works by talented regional artists. During the opening reception, guests will enjoy a sparkling wine welcome, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar offering beer, wine, and soda. The reception offers a relaxed and inviting setting—perfect for connecting with the artists and fellow art enthusiasts.
Cost: $5 Members, $10 Non-Members Advanced
Pre-registration is required. For more information, click here.

Orchid Care Classes
Tuesday, August 5 (Orchid Basics) and Tuesday, August 12 (Repotting & Mounting and Combatting Pests & Diseases) | 9:30 AM – 11:30 PM
In the air-conditioned Island Theater. Includes tours of the Orchid Display House and Orchid Greenhouse.
Cost: $30 members / $35 non-members
Click here to register for Orchid Care Classes.

SPECIAL: UPCOMING HOLIDAY MAGIC DATES

Celebrate five nights of Holiday Magic at Bonnet House in December. All of the trees, wreaths and centerpieces throughout the house will be lit, designed to delight, and for sale.

HOLIDAY JINGLE & MINGLE – VIP OPENING RECEPTION
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
The Holiday Magic 5-day celebration kicks off with a VIP Opening Reception.

WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 | 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Wonderland of interactive activities for the entire family including live entertainment, story time and a visit from Santa Claus.

EVENING EXPERIENCES
DECEMBER 10, 11 & 12 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Bonnet House will be open for self-guided evening tours featuring something festive and exciting happening every night.

For more information on Holiday Magic, click here.

Jun 09
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Creating a Welcoming Space for All

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Creating a Welcoming Space for All: Bonnet House’s Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility

In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens continues to honor the spirit of hospitality that Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett were so well known for — creating an inclusive, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all who visit. We’re proud to highlight the many thoughtful ways we support guests of all abilities, backgrounds, and sensitivities.

A Place Where Everyone Belongs

At Bonnet House, inclusivity isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a living practice. We welcome individuals and families of all backgrounds and identities, including those with physical or emotional disabilities and those facing disparities in education, social, or economic status.

Our team embraces and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to ensure every guest feels respected, safe, and supported from the moment they arrive.

Whether you’re exploring the historic main house, taking in the serenity of our lush subtropical gardens, or simply seeking a quiet moment of respite, you’ll find that Bonnet House is a space where everyone is encouraged to feel at home.

Making History Accessible to All

We’ve taken special care to ensure that our historic estate is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, and vision impairments. Some of our accommodations available on site include:

  • ADA-compliant parking and restrooms
  • Wheelchair-accessible paths and exhibit room access via ramps
  • Complimentary wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis
  • A wheelchair-accessible golf cart for grounds tours and transportation around the site
  • Front-door drop-off options for visitors with mobility impairments
  • Self-guided tours available in both audio and print formats and in multiple languages including English, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Russian, Mandarin, and Spanish.
  • A “touching tour” available with advance notice for guests with vision impairments
  • Closed captioning on our introductory video for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing

Our staff and volunteers are always available to assist and ensure guests have the support they need. We also encourage visitors to contact us in advance if they have specific accessibility needs so we can make their visits as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Supporting Sensory Friendly Travel

We understand that visiting a new space can be overwhelming for individuals with any sensitivity. That’s why we continue to explore ways to make Bonnet House more sensory friendly—offering peaceful spaces to rest, self-paced tours, and friendly staff ready to help answer questions or provide quiet support. Our grounds offer a tranquil, open-air experience where guests can explore at their own comfort level and pace.

Visit Us

As an accredited museum and historic landmark, Bonnet House is committed to preserving its past while creating a future that’s inclusive and accessible for all. We invite you to experience this special place and be part of a community that values hospitality, history, and heart.

To plan your visit or learn more about our accessibility offerings, please click here to go to our “Visit” page.

 

May 06
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Bonnet House’s Family Summer Special

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Looking for a fun, affordable, and educational way to keep the whole family entertained this summer? Look no further than the Family Summer Special at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, running from May 27 through August 31! This seasonal offer allows you to enjoy the beauty and history of one of Fort Lauderdale’s most beloved landmarks without breaking the bank.

From late May to the end of August, adult admission is just $25, and kids 17 and under get in free (with a paying adult). That means more family time, nature, history, and savings. With self-guided tours available through your mobile device, you can explore at your own pace and let curiosity lead the way.

Bonnet House is the perfect setting for a summer day out. Nestled on 35 acres of lush, tropical land, the estate is a peaceful retreat where history and ecology come to life. Step inside the historic house to discover the colorful world of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, who filled their home with art, stories, and a passion for creativity. Then wander through vibrant gardens, admire exotic plants, and watch for turtles, birds, and aquatic wildlife in the picturesque lakes and ponds.

Whether you’re a local or visiting South Florida, this is a unique chance to learn something new and share an enriching experience with your kids. You’ll leave with beautiful photos, fun facts, and memories that last far beyond summer.  Find more information on Bonnet House’s Family Summer Special here!

Apr 07
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Kick Off Spring With Bonnet House

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Few seasons make the Bonnet House’s beauty burst the way Spring does.  Home to five distinct ecosystems and three additional cultivated gardens, the flowering season at Bonnet House might remind visitors of a Van Gogh painting.  Blooming with vibrant colors and literally buzzing with life, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to attend one of our many events hosted this spring by naturalists, artists, and teachers.  Bonnet House has countless opportunities to inspire creativity, find peace with our morning yoga sessions, or learn about the plants and animals that give us the beautiful display of life Florida is known for.

Staying true to Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett’s memory, Bonnet House has remained a patron of the arts.  With inspiration all around us, it’s easy to discover your creativity in Bonnet House.  Our Spring art class,  Drawing With A Purpose, features expert art teacher Bonny Opie.  Bonny will guide you through the steps of creating compelling compositions.  In this class, artists of all levels can learn the intricacies of understanding composition, thumbnail sketches, and drawing from photographs.  If you’d like to unlock your inner artist, register today!

Yoga & Sound Healing combines a Hatha yoga flow with soothing sound healing on Bonnet House’s Veranda.  Hosted at least once a month on Friday, this soothing practice will connect your body and soul to the environment around you.  Don’t miss our next Yoga on The Veranda on April 11th.  If your goal is to connect with nature, Bonnet House has a different learning opportunity for you!  Bees In Our Bonnet is back this April with Joanna Diamond, our resident bee expert.  This exciting class will cover little-known bee facts, common misconceptions, proper pollinator care, and more.  Bees In Our Bonnet wraps up with a honey-tasting session, and raw wildflower honey will be available for purchase after class.  This immersive experience is definitely a spring specialty for the books, and you can register for it today before spots fill up.

Just like in nature, Bonnet House comes to life after the spring solstice, and we want you to join us!  Check out our events page to spot a class that resonates with you.  From documentary viewings to orchid care, spring at the Bonnet House house has something for everyone.  Happy Spring, and happier learning!