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Bonnet House Blog

Apr 16
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Orchid & Garden Festival

Enjoy Spring in Fort Lauderdale — Your Way

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Our warm breezes, sparkling waterways, and vibrant cultural scene make spring one of the best seasons to enjoy Fort Lauderdale. Whether you crave lively energy or prefer quieter escapes, there are endless ways to celebrate spring right here at home — especially at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.

1. Cool Off in Fort Lauderdale’s Waterways

Even when the beaches get busy, Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of peaceful aquatic escapes. Known as the “Venice of America,” the city has over 300 miles of scenic waterways to explore.

Local hidden gems include:

  • Hugh Taylor Birch State Park’s Lagoons — Calm canals ideal for nature walks and paddling.
  • Whiskey Creek — A mangrove-lined haven within Dr. Von D. Mizell–Eula Johnson State Park.
  • The New River’s quiet western stretch — A favorite spot for manatee sightings in spring.

If you’d like to experience the water right from Bonnet House, spring visitors can enjoy:

  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Coconut Cove
    Offered through our partnership with Fort Lauderdale Adventures, this peaceful paddle takes you through the mangrove‑fringed waters behind the estate. It’s a serene way to enjoy the spring season from the water.

2. Explore Fort Lauderdale’s Botanical Beauty — Including Bonnet House

Spring is one of the most stunning times to explore Fort Lauderdale’s tropical gardens and hidden green spaces.

Local favorites include:

  • Bonnet House Museum & Gardens — Home to tropical and desert gardens, blooming orchids, a lily pond, and miles of nature trails. Spring brings vibrant colors and abundant wildlife activity.
  • Secret Woods Nature Center
  • Flamingo Gardens
  • Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

At Bonnet House, spring also brings a variety of special garden experiences:

Guided Nature Tours

Learn the history of Evelyn Bartlett’s famous orchid collection and explore the estate’s blooming species with a knowledgeable guide.

Outdoor Classes (Yoga & Orchid Care)

Spring’s mild weather creates the perfect setting to learn the art of orchid care and unwind with a relaxing yoga session on the veranda.

3. Explore Fort Lauderdale by Kayak or Paddleboard

One of the most rewarding ways to enjoy Fort Lauderdale in spring is by exploring its waterways.

Beyond the beaches, local paddling spots include:

  • Middle River in Wilton Manors
  • Colohatchee Park
  • George English Park Launch

And of course:

Paddle Through Bonnet House’s Coconut Cove

This intimate and naturally preserved waterway offers a calm, quiet alternative to the oceanfront — perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers.

5. Discover Bonnet House and Fort Lauderdale’s Hidden Gems

Fort Lauderdale is filled with lesser‑known local treasures perfect for spring exploring:

Stranahan House Museum

The region’s oldest surviving home.

Louie Bossi’s Garden Patio

A Las Olas favorite with a secluded outdoor atmosphere.

BONNET HOUSE–SPECIFIC HIDDEN GEMS:

The Shell Museum Room

A charming and unexpected collection inside the main house.

Wildlife Viewing at the Lily Pond

Spring brings baby wading birds, turtles, and even the occasional manatee sighting.

️ Frederic Bartlett’s Studio Spaces

Peek into the artistic world of the Bonnet House’s original designer.

Whether you’re soaking in tropical gardens, discovering local art, paddling through mangroves, or enjoying Bonnet House’s unique programs, spring is one of the most vibrant seasons in Fort Lauderdale. We hope you’ll spend time outdoors, explore something new, and enjoy the natural beauty all around us.

To learn more about visiting Bonnet House Museum & Gardens this spring — tours, events, classes, and adventures — click here.

Apr 15
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Orchid Care Classes Return This Spring at Bonnet House

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Classes Begin April 21

Springtime has once again arrived in South Florida! While the temperatures are beginning to warm up, the season brings fresh growth, vibrant blooms, and renewed energy across Fort Lauderdale. At Bonnet House, springtime is something we truly celebrate—and embrace.

This is because we are passionate about growing and caring for a wide variety of tropical plants, especially orchids. These unique, eye‑catching plants thrive in our climate and are the inspiration behind many of our annual events and workshops.

We’re excited to announce the return of our popular Orchid Care Classes, beginning April 21. Designed for both beginners and experienced growers, these engaging classes cover everything from the fundamentals of orchid care to more advanced cultivation techniques.

Learn from the Experts

All classes are taught by Bonnet House Orchid Curator José Exposito, along with his knowledgeable team of orchid care specialists. Our greenhouses are home to an exceptional collection of beautifully maintained orchids, and participants will gain exclusive insight into the care techniques used right here at Bonnet House. Guests will also have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with our experts.

Each class is followed by an informative guided tour of our Orchid Display House and Orchid Greenhouses, offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at these remarkable plants.

We’re excited to announce the return of our popular Orchid Care Classes, beginning April 21. Designed for both beginners and experienced growers, these engaging classes cover everything from orchid care basics to more advanced cultivation techniques.

Class Schedule

Basic Orchid Care Class
📅 Tuesday, April 21 | 9:30–11:30 a.m.
This introductory class covers the fundamentals of orchid care, including orchid types, ideal growing locations, and basic cultivation techniques.
💲 $30 for members | $35 for non-members
Click here to register today.

Intermediate Orchid Care Class
📅 Tuesday, April 28 | 9:30–11:30 a.m.
This more advanced class focuses on transplanting orchids, with special emphasis on materials and mounting techniques using cork, driftwood, plaques, baskets, and more.
💲 $30 for members | $35 for non-members
Click here to register.

Reserve Your Spot

Whether you’re new to orchids or have been growing them for decades, these classes offer valuable insights into the fascinating world of orchid care. Our Orchid Care Classes are very popular and fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged.

To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.

We hope to see you at Bonnet House this spring as we celebrate the beauty—and science—of orchids!

Apr 07
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International Orchid & Garden Festival Returns to Bonnet House—Bigger & Better Than Ever

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

One of South Florida’s most anticipated spring traditions is blooming once again at Bonnet House! The 17th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival returns on Saturday and Sunday, April 11–12, 2026, promising a vibrant weekend filled with color, fragrance, and inspiration.

This beloved two-day festival invites orchid enthusiasts, avid gardeners, and curious plant lovers to immerse themselves in an extraordinary showcase of orchids, tropical plants, herbs, and fruit trees. Guests will have the chance to explore—and purchase—rare and exotic varieties offered by an outstanding selection of local and international vendors.

The Festival takes place from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm both days, rain or shine. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy stunning orchid and tropical plant displays, browse garden art, savor delicious food and libations, and relax to live entertainment and music—all set against the lush backdrop of Bonnet House’s historic gardens. Festival admission also includes access to the acclaimed ZimSculpt Outdoor Exhibit, allowing guests to experience monumental stone sculptures from world‑renowned Zimbabwean artists throughout the gardens.

Learn From the Experts

The International Orchid & Garden Festival is also a unique opportunity to learn from highly experienced growers and horticultural experts. A full schedule of engaging lectures will be offered throughout the weekend, including:

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026

10:30 – 11:30 am ~ Growing Grammatophyllum Orchids
Mac Rivenbark is a long-time South Florida orchid grower and seller specializes in Philippine and other Asian species.

11.30 am – 12:30 pm ~ Starting a South Florida Orchard
Julieta Ross, a Florida Master Gardener, and horticulture volunteer at Bonnet House.

1:00 – 2:00 pm ~ Growing Catasetum Orchids
Jim Davison, an AOS accredited judge, specializes in Catasentinae, Florida natives, and collectible species and hybrids.

2:30 – 3:30 pm ~ The ZimSculpt Exhibit
Vivienne Croisette, Co-Curator of the ZimSculpt Exhibit, will discuss the extraordinary outdoor sculpture exhibition at Bonnet House celebrating the rich sculptural traditions of Zimbabwe and the immersive cultural experience.

SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2026

10:30 – 11:30 am ~ Basics of Orchid Growing
Olivier Turina, an award-winning hobbyist orchid grower focusing on species and primary hybrids and grows many different genera with Catasetums and Stanhopeas being his top favorites.

11:30 am – 12:30 pm ~ How to Grow Cattleya Orchids
Lou Lodyga; experienced orchid grower; American Orchid Society judge; and member, and former president, of Coalition for Orchid Species.

1:30 – 2:30 pm ~ The ZimSculpt Exhibit
Vivienne Croisette, Co-Curator of the ZimSculpt Exhibit, will discuss the extraordinary outdoor sculpture exhibition at Bonnet House celebrating the rich sculptural traditions of Zimbabwe and the immersive cultural experience.

Plan Your Visit

  • Admission: $25 per person
  • Parking: Free

Celebrate the arrival of spring in one of Fort Lauderdale’s most beautiful settings. Come ready to learn something new, enjoy great food and entertainment, discover extraordinary plants, and make unforgettable memories with family and friends.

To learn more or purchase tickets, click here. We look forward to welcoming you to this spectacular weekend at Bonnet House!

Mar 18
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The Curatorial Eye: Celebrating America 250 Florida and the Bartlett Legacy

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As we look toward the nation’s 250th anniversary, my focus as curator has been to move beyond the well-known stories of the Revolutionary era and explore the broader “living legacy” of the American spirit. Here in South Florida, that spirit is defined by a unique intersection of rugged pioneer resilience and sophisticated artistic modernism. While our southeastern coast may be young in comparison to other parts of the country, it tells a powerful story of creativity and adaptation – and Bonnet House is uniquely positioned to help share that narrative.

The Exhibit

To mark this milestone, we are thrilled to present a focused exhibit in the Studio: “America 250 Florida: 100 Years on a Barrier Island: A Pioneering and Artistic Heritage.” This installation features a selection of collection objects typically kept in storage, including Frederic’s original drawing of his concept of Bonnet House, his Silver Medal for his murals from the 1904 Saint Louis Universal Exposition, Evelyn’s passports, signed letters to Evelyn from a former President, and many accolades and recognitions for her generous gift of Bonnet House to South Florida and her preservation efforts. These items place Bonnet House within an evolving American narrative and highlight the contributions that shaped the thriving, diverse community we enjoy today.

The exhibit also features a comprehensive timeline that places our local history within a global context. There is something profoundly interesting about seeing a world war or the worldwide influenza epidemic listed just a few years before Bonnet House was built. We see 40-year-old Frederic working in naval intelligence during WWI just before marrying Helen Birch; we see Bonnet House standing firm through the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 while the rest of the state’s land boom collapsed, beginning the Great Depression earlier in Florida; and we learn why the Bartletts’ visits here were sparse during WWII. Later, we track the rise of Fort Lauderdale through multiple “land booms” and how it became the epitome of Spring Break destinations, while Evelyn gifts Bonnet House for historic preservation and it transforms from home to historic house museum.

We also have several significant anniversaries this year:

  • Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) – 130th anniversary
  • Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 – 100th anniversary
  • Frederic and Evelyn’s 95th wedding anniversary

Join the Celebration

We invite you to visit the Studio to view the exhibit which will be running through the year. As you walk through this historic property, it is my hope that the exhibit brings history to life and allows you to feel the same inspiration that led the Bartletts to create this sanctuary a century ago. I look forward to sharing this chapter with you and hope you’ll join us in celebrating 250 years of history that continues to unfold.

The America 250 Florida exhibit is included with regular house admission and runs until December 27, 2026.

Feb 02
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ZimSculpt Marketplace

A Living Conversation Between Art, Nature, and Stone

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens was never meant to be still. Created by artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett as a living work of art, the estate blurs the boundaries between architecture, nature, and creative expression. That vision comes alive now through April 19 as the gardens host an extraordinary exhibition of contemporary Zimbabwean Shona stone sculpture.

Set throughout the breathtaking grounds are 100 large-scale stone sculptures, thoughtfully placed among lush tropical foliage, historic structures, and winding pathways. Each piece feels discovered rather than displayed, creating a sense of wonder as visitors move through the landscape. A vibrant Marketplace features over 400 small to medium sculptures, offering guests the opportunity to take home a powerful work of art at a range of sizes and price points.

Zimbabwean Shona stone sculpture is one of Africa’s most significant contemporary art movements. Rooted in generations of tradition, the work is guided by intuition, storytelling, and deep respect for the spirit believed to live within stone. Sculptors work entirely by hand, using only hammers, chisels, and patience to transform raw stone into fluid, expressive forms.

Curated by ZimSculpt founders Vivienne and Joseph Croisette, the exhibition features more than 100 artists, from emerging talents to internationally recognized masters. Adding to the experience, two master sculptors from Zimbabwe are artists-in-residence, demonstrating their craft daily and offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness this centuries-old tradition in action. As works are acquired, new sculptures arrive, ensuring the exhibition continually evolves.

Open Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–4 pm.
Experience this living gallery where art, nature, and culture converge.

Dec 16
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Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Welcomes ZimSculpt: A Celebration of Zimbabwean Stone Sculpture

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Outdoor Exhibition on Display January 18 – April 19, 2026

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is thrilled to announce ZimSculpt, an extraordinary outdoor sculpture exhibition coming to our historic estate and lush gardens from January 18 through April 19, 2026. This immersive cultural experience will transform Bonnet House into a vibrant showcase of artistry, honoring the creative spirit of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett while celebrating the rich sculptural traditions of Zimbabwe.

What is ZimSculpt?

ZimSculpt is an internationally acclaimed exhibition featuring over 2,000 hand-carved stone sculptures created by 150 contemporary Zimbabwean artists. Curated by Vivienne and Joseph Croisette, the collection will be displayed throughout Bonnet House’s gardens and grounds, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience global artistry in a breathtaking South Florida setting.

From bold garden centerpieces to intimate decorative works, every piece tells a story—and every piece is available for purchase, with proceeds directly supporting the artists and their communities in Zimbabwe.

Live Sculpting Demonstrations

One of the most exciting aspects of ZimSculpt is the chance to watch art come to life. Two world-renowned Zimbabwean sculptors, Passmore Mupindiko and Shine Muzika, will be on-site daily, demonstrating traditional Shona carving techniques using authentic tools. This rare experience allows visitors to witness the skill and dedication behind each masterpiece.

Opening Reception

Join us for the ZimSculpt Opening Reception on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Enjoy light fare and cocktails provided by Hugh’s Catering, mingle with the artists, and get an exclusive first look at this stunning collection.
Cost: $50 per person (includes reception and exhibit admission).

Exhibit Details

  • Dates: January 18 – April 19, 2026
  • Location: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
  • Cost: Included with General Admission
    • House & Grounds (Advance Purchase Online): $25
    • House & Grounds (Day of Purchase): $30
    • Grounds Only: $15

Why ZimSculpt Matters

ZimSculpt exhibitions have earned global recognition, with works featured in prestigious collections such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Rodin Museum in Paris, and even the British Royal Household. Collectors like Sir Richard Attenborough, Morgan Freeman, and the Rockefeller family have embraced these remarkable pieces.

The Bonnet House ZimSculpt exhibition is made possible thanks to the generosity of donors Jim & Lynn LaBate, Sherry Walters, and Victoria Kirby.

Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of art, culture, and history!
For tickets, hours, and more information, visit bonnethouse.org/outdoor-exhibits.

 

Nov 12
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Bonnet House Holiday Gift Guide: Give the Gift of Art, Nature & Magic

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Bonnet House Museum & Gardens offers unique experiences and treasures that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one, a friend, or even yourself, these thoughtful gifts celebrate art, history, and the beauty of the season.

1. Art Classes – Inspire Creativity

Give the gift of artistic expression! Bonnet House offers a variety of art classes taught by talented instructors in a serene, historic setting. From painting to drawing, these classes are perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike.
Tip: Pair a class with a set of art supplies for a complete creative package.

Click here to see the complete list of classes and workshops.

2. Membership – A Year of Discovery

A Bonnet House membership is the gift that keeps giving. Members enjoy unlimited admission, exclusive discounts, and invitations to special events throughout the year. It’s an ideal present for anyone who loves history, gardens, and cultural experiences.
Bonus: Memberships start at an affordable price and support the preservation of this historic estate.

Click here to see all the membership levels available.

3. Gift Shop Treasures – Unique Finds

Explore our charming gift shop for one-of-a-kind items, including art-inspired home décor, jewelry, books, and holiday ornaments. These distinctive gifts reflect the beauty and spirit of Bonnet House and make perfect stocking stuffers or hostess gifts.

4. Holiday Magic Décor – Trees, Wreaths & Centerpieces

Bring the magic of Bonnet House home! Our stunning, hand-decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces are available for purchase through December 28. Each piece is uniquely designed and beautifully lit—perfect for adding festive elegance to your holiday celebrations.

Make this holiday season unforgettable with gifts that inspire, delight, and support Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.
Shop, register, or learn more at https://www.bonnethouse.org/.

 

Oct 01
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Celebrate the Season with Holiday Magic at Bonnet House

By Bonnet House Blog No Comments

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

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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.