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ALL AGES top of events
Newport Winter Festival 2012 -- Newport, RI
February 18, 2012 to February 25, 2012
Time : Various; consult website
Various; consult website
Newport, RI
With 151 events, this festival has become New England's largest winter extravaganza. The Winter Festival combines food, music, and entertainment, with fun for all ages. Sand sculptures, a Chili Cook-Off, city-wide scavenger Hunt, and an ice sculpting competition, and a Children's Fair are just some of the events. Information: 401-847-7666.
Signature events include Beatlemania, February 18, 9 p.m. at the Hyatt; Samuel Adams Chili Cook-Off, February 18, at Newport Harbor Hotel; Chicken Wing Competition, February 25, at Hyatt Hotel; Festival Day at Easton's Beach, February 26. This fun-filled day includes a children's block hunt, a sand/snow sculpture contest, suspenders juggling troupe, polar bear plunge and more; Eagles Tribute Band, February 25 at Newport Marriott; Winter Fest Comedy Show, February 24 at Hotel Viking. Laugh the night away with comedy legend Kevin Meaney; Children's Fair, February 19 and 20 at Newport Marriott. This fair is filled with music, face painting, balloon creations, arts and crafts, reptiles and more; Ice Sculpting Demonstration, February 18.
Information: www.newportevents.com/winterfest/


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CHILDREN & FAMILIES top of events
Be An Engineer Exhibit for Children -- Providence, RI
February 18, 2012 to February 18, 2012
Time : 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
100 South Street
Providence, RI 02903
Admission : $8.50 for non-members
Kids investigate the world of engineering at fun-filled activity stations. Program a human robot, build towers, experiment with electrical conductivity, make oobleck and more. Recommended for ages 5 and older. Presented by the Society of Women Engineers, New England Shoreline Section.
Phone : 401-273-5437


Wingmasters at Providence Children's Museum --Providence, RI
February 20, 2012 to February 20, 2012
Time : 10 and 11 a.m.; 1 and 2 p.m.
100 South Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $8.50
Families learn about majestic birds of prey with licensed raptor rehabilitator Julie Collier. Meet a glorious golden eagle, a tiny owl, a red-tailed hawk, a falcon and other magnificent raptors. Recommended for ages 3 and older.
Information: 401-273-5437


The Hoopoe Show at Providence Children's Museum -- Providence, RI
February 21, 2012 to February 21, 2012
Time : 11:30 a.m.; 1 and 2 p.m.
100 South Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $8.50
Hoopoe the hilarious mime (Chris Yerlig) gets the audience into the act and dazzles them with silent comedy, eye-popping magic tricks and balloon wizardry in a funny, imaginative show. Recommended for ages 3 and up.
Information: 401-273-5437


Top of Events

FOOD, WINE, BEER top of events
Red,White, & Brew Wine & Beer Pairing & Auction -- Warwick, RI
February 9, 2012 to February 9, 2012
Time : 6-9 p.m
Warwick Museum of Art, 3259 Post Road
Warwick, RI 02886
Admission : $50 per person
Enjoy a relaxed evening of great wine, food, and live music. Bid on an eclectic array of live and silent auctions. All proceeds to benefit Easter Seals RI.
Phone : 401-284-3738


Wine-ter-Fest 2012 -- Middletown, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 11, 2012
Newport Vineyards, 909 E. Main Road (Route 138)
Middletown, RI
Admission : $20/person.
Chase away Winter's chill and have a tasty thrill at Newport Vineyards. Check out the outside Ice Wine bar. Wine tasting, cheese, chocolate, and spreadable edibles offered by local gourmet purveyors. R.S.V.P. suggested to info@newportvineyards.com.
Information: 401-848-5161


Kinsale, Ireland Festival of Fine Food – Newport, RI
March 8, 2012 to March 12, 2012
City wide
Newport, RI
Chefs from Newport's sister city, Kinsale, Ireland, show off their cookery talents to create traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine in local restaurants. Many and varied cooking and dining events for the public. More details to come; check website.
Information: 401-845-9123 or visit www.gonewport.com/events-calendar


Newport Restaurant Week in the Spring – Newport, RI
March 23, 2012 to April 1, 2012
Participating Restaurants
Newport, RI
A three-course meal from some of the finest area restaurant without breaking the bank! From a steaming cup of chowder overlooking the harbor to fine dining in romantic restaurants, Newport & Bristol County restaurants offer an array of creative menus. Check website for participating restaurants.
Cost: $16 for a three-course lunch and $30 for a three-course dinner.
Information: 401-845-9123 or visit www.gonewportrestaurantweek.com


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GARDENS top of events
Illuminated Garden 2012 -- Newport, RI
February 24, 2012 to February 25, 2012
Time : 6 to 9 p.m.
Hazard Road
Newport, RI
Admission : Free
Thousands of lights are displayed in the trees and unique features of Ballard Park's three-acre quarry meadow. Guests are advised to wear boots because trails may be muddy, dark and uneven. Bring a flashlight. Use Hazard Road entrance.
Information: 401-619-3377


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HISTORIC top of events
Colonial Reenactors Host Weekend Tours at Smith-Appleby House – Smithfield, RI
January 1, 2012 to April 29, 2012
Time : Saturday and Sunder afternoons; call for hours
The Smith-Appleby House, 220 Stillwater Road
Smithfield, RI
Admission : Adults, $5
Volunteer historians in Colonial costume will conduct tours of the Smith-Appleby House Museum, where visitors can learn about the 316-year history and architecture of the home, the Smith-Appleby family and 18th century living in Rhode Island; watch demonstrations; examine period furnishings, clothing and household items; and sample hearth-baked goods.
Information: www.smithapplebyhouse.org or call 401-231-7363


Top of Events

MUSIC top of events
Celebrate Bob Marley's Birthday with Soul Shot – Westerly, RI
February 4, 2012 to February 4, 2012
Time : Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for dinner; music at 9:30 p.m.
The Knickerbocker Café, 35 Railroad Avenue
Westerly, RI
Admission : $10
Soulshot is New England's premier reggae, ska, and rocksteady band. Formed in 2003, Soulshot is known for its many gigs in the U.S. and Jamaica with singer Ernie Smith, Dalton "Screwdriver" Lindo at the Ocean State Reggae Festival, the Cape Cod 2007 Winter Bash, and with the sweet voice of Rastaman Roger Robin from the UK. Soulshot's members combine four decades of experience performing Jamaican style ska, rocksteady and reggae.
Information: 401-596-4225 or visit www.theknickerbockercafe.com


The Muir String Quartet – Providence, RI
February 6, 2012 to February 6, 2012
Time : 7:30 p.m.
Sapinsley Hall at Rhode Island College, 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue
Providence, RI
Admission : $35
The second concert in the Beethoven Cycle will include String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 74, String Quartet in G Major, Op. 18, No. 2 and String Quartet in C-sharp minor, Op. 131.
Information: 401-456-8144 or visit www.ric.edu/pfa/pas.php


Debbie Davies -- Woonsocket, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 11, 2012
Time : 8 p.m.
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket , RI
Admission : $15
One of Chan's favorites. Debbie is a tremendous guitarist & a very soulful vocalist.
Information: 401-765-1900


Sweethearts' Night Out -- Cumberland, RI
February 12, 2012 to February 12, 2012
Time : 7 p.m.
Blackstone River Theatre, 549 Broad Street
Cumberland, RI
Admission : $15 per person
Three musical couples will present an evening of both the sweet and the scary side of romance, from their perspective as couples, with original songs and old favorites from every genre.
Information and tickets: 401-725-9272 or visit www.riverfolk.org


The Brian Maes Band -- Woonsocket, RI
February 17, 2012 to February 17, 2012
Time : 8 p.m.
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket , RI
Admission : $15
If you enjoy partying with Ernie & The Automatics, you'll love the Brien Maes Band. This is a rock’n fun band that features members from the Automatics Brian Maes-keys/lead vocals, Tim Archabald-bass, 'Tunes' Michael Antune-Sax
Information: 401-765-1900


James Montgomery -- Woonsocket, RI
February 18, 2012 to February 18, 2012
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket , RI
Captivating, exciting and entertaining music, backed by the A Team George McCann, David Hull, Seth Pappas.
Information: 401-765-1900 8 and 10 p.m.


Duke Robillard Jazz Trio -- Woonsocket, RI
February 23, 2012 to February 23, 2012
Time : 8 p.m.
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket , RI
Admission : $10
The award winning guitar virtuoso is one of the most versatile. He is comfortable playing jazz & blues. Duke will be holding court at Chan’s once a month with various special guests ... you never known who might sit in.
Information: 401-765-1900


Luther “Guitar Jr” Johnson & The Magic Rockers -- Woonsocket, RI
February 24, 2012 to February 24, 2012
Time : 8 and 10 p.m.
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket, RI
Admission : $12 and $17
Blues legend Luther Johnson is one the last link to the original Chicago Blues. Alum of Muddy's band and still got his mojo working.
Information: 401-765-1900


Tree House Union -- Woonsocket, RI
February 25, 2012 to February 25, 2012
Time : 8 p.m.
Chan’s, 267 Main Street
Woonsocket , RI
Admission : $10
An evening with the dynamic duo of singer song writer Stefan Couture & Matty Nolan
Information: 401-765-1900


Top of Events

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES top of events
Maple Sugaring with Rhode Island Audubon -- Coventry, RI
March 3, 2012 to March 10, 2012
Time : 9 a.m.-noon
Audubon Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge, 1670 Maple Valley Road
Coventry, RI
Step back in time at Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge and experience the history of maple sugaring. Learn how maple sugaring started with Native Americans and how to make this sweet syrup in your own backyard. Participants taste first hand this delectable treat over breakfast. Sample pancakes, muffins and doughnuts - all with fresh maple syrup. Tours begin every 15 minutes starting at 9 a.m. Please pre-register; space is limited. Dates: March 3 and March 10.
Information: 949-5454, ext. 3041 or email programs@asri.org or visit wwwasri.org


Prudence Island Tour and Seal Watch with Rhode Island Audubon -- Bristol, RI
March 7, 2012 to April 4, 2012
Time : 9:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Admission : Adults, $20; children, $10
Come and explore Prudence Island with a chance to see seals at one of the best haul-out spots in Narragansett Bay. You will also learn about ecological research happening in and around the Bay through the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve. View a popular seal haul-out spot at low tide using spotting scopes and enjoy a brief presentation about the seals’ life cycle and migration to Narragansett Bay. We will also tour by van with stops to visit the island’s one-room schoolhouse, cultural, and historic sites. Participants should meet at Bristol Ferry Landing, Bristol, Church Street Wharf, Bristol. Dates: March 7, 17, 18, 21 and April 4, 2012
Information and registration: 401-949-5454, ext. 3041 or email programs@asri.org.


Top of Events

PARADES & FIREWORKS top of events
Saint Patrick's Day Parade – Newport, RI
March 17, 2012 to March 17, 2012
Downtown Newport
Newport, RI
Find your best green attire, keep your eyes open for leprechauns, and join in the revelry to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Newport! The parade begins at 11 a.m. at City Hall, runs through Washington Square, down Thames Street, and ends at St. Augustine's Church.
Time: 11 a.m.
Information: 401-845-9123 or visit www.newportirish.com


Top of Events

PARTIES, DANCES, BALLS top of events
Providence Preservation Society presents Big Easy Winter Bash -- Providence, RI
February 4, 2012 to February 4, 2012
Time : 8 p.m.
103 Dike Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $30-40
Bring yourself out of the winter blues and celebrate at the 2012 Providence Preservation Society Winter Bash Big Easy Style with live entertainment by Eric Bloom’s Five Point Lookout Brass Band. The Winter Bash, the biggest and best winter event in Providence, brings out a fun, diverse crowd of artists, young professionals, business, civic and political leaders, and all who share a passion for Providence, and for having a good time!
Information: 401-383-1112


Midwinter on Angell: A Medieval Valentine’s Day Celebration -- Providence, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 11, 2012
Time : 6 to 9 p.m.
Central Congregational Church, 296 Angell Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $45 per person
For a fresh, fun, romantic, and music-filled Valentine’s Day, come to Midwinter on Angell. This Medieval feast of food, mirth, and songs of love includes dinner, wine and entertainment - including musical performances by the Central Choir, Patrick Aiken, Choirmaster and Organist.
Information and reservations: 401-331-1960 or email cccangell@centralchurch.us


Valentine's Day Ball with the Boston String Quartet --Providence, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 12, 2012
Time : 6:30 p.m.
11 Dorrance Street
Providence, RI
Admission : Full Evening Package, $65 per person; Dancing Package, $40 per person
Boston String Quartet invites you to celebrate at the Valentine’s Day Ball with beautiful music, a romantic dinner, and Latin ballroom dancing. Full evening package with dinner, or dance package, without dinner.
Information: 617-875-7851


Mardi Gras Ball with music by Slippery Sneakers – Woonsocket, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 11, 2012
Time : 5:30-11 p.m.
CYO Center, 53 Federal Street
Woonsocket, RI
Admission : $25 in advance; $30 at the door (if available)
Mardi Gras Ball featuring the Slippery Sneakers band performing zydeco, blues, soul and Cajun music, with a buffet served from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Information and tickets: 401-762-9072 or visit http://nrica.org


Mardi Gras Ball with Music by Slippery Sneakers – Woonsocket, RI
February 11, 2012 to February 11, 2012
Time : 5:30-11 p.m.
St. Ann's Art & Cultural Center, 84 Cumberland Street
Woonsocket, RI
Admission : $25 in advance; $30 at the door (if available)
Live music by local group The Jeff Gamache Orchestra, playing swing, blues, country, disco and rock & roll. Buffet is served 6:30 8 pm, followed by the revealing of this year’s King Jace.
Information and tickets: 401-762-9072 or visit http://nrica.org


Cajun & Zydeco Mardi Gras Ball – Cranston, RI
February 18, 2012 to February 18, 2012
Time : 5 p.m.–midnight
Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, 60 Rhodes Place
Cranston, RI
Admission : $35-$45
The best Mardi Gras party in New England. Music and dancing with Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Pine Leaf Boys, Preston Frank, Ed Poullard & Big Daddy Zydeco Band, and Hot Tamale Brass Band. Prizes for costumes in the category of best group, couple, and individual; most traditional and most creative. Cajun food for sale.
Information and tickets: www.mardigrasri.com


Oscar Night America -- Providence, RI
February 26, 2012 to February 26, 2012
Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 1 Avenue of the Arts
Providence, RI
Admission : $125
Residents of Rhode Island and southern New England can experience the thrills and surprises of the 84th Academy Awards. Oscar Night America is the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences's program that enables charities to host glamorous parties to raise funds. This is a Red Carpet Gala with a welcome reception, gourmet dinner, drinks, live music, raffle and screening of the Academy Awards. For those who wish to watch the Awards ceremony only on the large screen, tickets are $10 with the doors opening at 8 p.m.
Information and tickets: www.RIFilmFest.org
Phone : 401-861-4445


Top of Events

PERFORMING ARTS, THEATER, DANCE top of events
“Festen” – Pawtucket, RI
January 12, 2012 to February 12, 2012
The Sandra Feinstein Gamm Theatre, 172 Exchange Street
Pawucket, RI
Helge is turning 60, and everyone is coming home for the party. His eldest son, Christian, whose twin sister, Linda, recently committed suicide, will raise the first toast... and reveal a shocking family secret. Trapped for 24 hours within the walls of the lavish country estate rocked by revelations that shatter the veneer of respectability even the disbelieving guests are choosing sides as the truth painfully unfolds.
Time: Performances Wednesday-Sunday; times vary - see website for details
Admission: $30-40
Information: 401-723-4266 or visit www.gammtheatre.org


“The Merchant of Venice” by William Shakespeare – Providence, RI
February 3, 2012 to March 11, 2012
Time : Various; consult website
Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street
Providence , RI
Admission : Various; consult website
At the mercy of Shylock, a moneylender to whom he owes a hefty debt, Antonio must find a way out of losing collateral he simply can’t afford to part with – a pound of his own flesh. A bold new setting brings to bear the timelessness of Shakespeare’s controversial tragedy.
Information: 401-351-4242 or visit or visit www.trinityrep.com/ Various; consult website


“Mary Poppins” -- Providence, RI
February 8, 2012 to February 19, 2012
Time : Various, see website
Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street
Providence , RI
Admission : $38 - $75
“Mary Poppins” is bringing its own brand of Broadway magic to theaters across the country, which has Variety raving, "This is the rare touring production that over-delivers on every level!" Featuring the irresistible story and unforgettable songs from one of the most popular Disney films of all time, plus brand-new breathtaking dance numbers and spectacular stagecraft, this is everything you could ever want in a hit Broadway show! So get swept up in the fun of this high-flying musical the New York Post gives 4 out of 4 stars.
Information: 401-421-2787 or visit http://ppacri.org


“Sparrow Grass” -- Providence, RI
February 16, 2012 to May 13, 2012
Time : Various; consult theater website
Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street
Providence , RI
Admission : Various; consult theater website
Artistic Director Curt Columbus’s bold new play, inspired by Racine’s Phèdre, brings the classic tragedy into focus in current times. A woman’s dark and misdirected passion threatens to destroy a family from within. Columbus has been hailed by critics nationwide for “his tremendous talent in skillfully adapting classics for present-day audiences.”
Information: 401-351-4242 or visit or visit www.trinityrep.com/


“West Side Story” – Woonsocket, RI
February 17, 2012 to February 19, 2012
Time : Friday and Saturday 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.
Stadium Theater, 28 Monument Square
Woonsocket, RI
The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet” is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.
Information: www.stadiumtheatre.com/ or call 401-762-4545


Your Friends and Neighbors Present: Paradise Park -- Narragansett, RI
February 24, 2012 to March 10, 2012
Time : 7-9 p.m.; February. 26, 2-4 p.m.
35 Ocean Road, Narragansett
Narragansett, RI
Admission : Friday-Saturday, $20; Sunday matinee, $15
The Contemporary Theater Company presents a funny and fantabulous Charles Mee comedy about love, escape, and Americana.
Information; www.thecontemporarytheater.com
Phone : 401-218-0282


“Come Fly Away” – Providence, RI
March 2, 2012 to March 4, 2012
Time : Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 6:30 p.m.
Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $36 - $63
“Come Fly Away” is the new Broadway musical that brings together the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra and the creative vision of Tony Award winner Twyla Tharp. This show combines the seductive vocals of Ol’ Blue Eyes with the sizzling sound of a live big band and the visceral thrill of Tharp’s choreography. As 14 of the world’s best dancers tell the story of four couples falling in and out of love, you will experience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement of a first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romance and astonishing beauty. “Come Fly Away” features a score of beloved Sinatra classics including "Fly Me to the Moon," "My Way," "New York, New York," and "Witchcraft."
Information and tickets: 401-421-2787


“The Addams Family” – Providence, RI
March 20, 2012 to March 25, 2012
Time : Tuesday and Wednesday, 7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 and 6:30 p.m.
Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street
Providence, RI
Admission : $43-$70
The weird and wonderful family comes to devilishly delightful life in “The Addams Family.” It's every parent's nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what's worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.
Information and tickets: 401-421-2787 or visit www.ppacri.org/


“Boeing-Boeing” -- Providence, RI
April 13, 2012 to May 13, 2012
Time : Various; consult theater website
Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street
Providence , RI
Admission : Various; consult theater website
In this Tony award-winning comedy, 1960s playboy Bernard deftly juggles affairs with three gorgeous stewardesses, mapping out their arrivals and departures like clockwork. His plan soars until his old college friend visits and each of his fiancées land on his doorstep on the same night! “It’s deliciously, deliriously innocent. Pure pleasure!” – New York Times
Information: 401-351-4242 or visit or visit www.trinityrep.com/


“Motherhood the Musical” -- Providence, RI
May 25, 2012 to July 1, 2012
Time : Various; consult theater website
Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street
Providence , RI
Admission : $44
A baby is just the beginning. Motherhood is for life! It’s the joyous journey and loving look at the blessings and perils of being a mom. It’s climbing the emotional mountain only to find that there’s laundry at the top. It’s discovering how powerful your love can be and how quickly your children grow up. It’s helping them find their way and not losing yours. This hysterical and poignant four-woman musical is a must see for anyone who is, has, or knows a mom.
Information: 401-351-4242 or visit or visit www.trinityrep.com/


Top of Events

SHOWS & EXHIBITS top of events
Northeastern International Auto Show – Providence, RI
February 2, 2012 to February 5, 2012
Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street
Providence, RI
The latest 2012 model cars, trucks, crossovers, vans and sport/utility vehicles will be on display. The auto show is the ideal setting to shop and compare favorite models in a no-pressure, non-selling environment.
Time: Thursday, noon-10 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: Adults, $9; seniors, $6; children ages 7-12, $4.
Information: www.providenceautoshow.com.


New England Golf Expo – Providence, RI
February 18, 2012 to February 19, 2012
Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street
Providence, RI
This show will feature more than 80 exhibitors with interactive displays, seminars and golf related attractions for all levels of golf enthusiasts, including latest equipment from the top golf manufacturers at the 10 bay indoor driving range, expanded discount retail shopping opportunities; interactive golf exhibits; tips from RIPGA golf professionals; chance to win resort packages and golf magazine subscriptions; a 9-hole mini-golf course and more.
Time: Saturday, 10 a.m-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Adults, $9; children under age 12, free.
Information: www.snegolfexpo.com.


Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show – Providence, RI
February 23, 2012 to February 26, 2012
Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street Providence
Providence, RI
The 19th Flower Show is more exciting and beautiful then ever – with 31 dens and 200 marketplace booths horticulture lectures; and a w Food & Wine Festival, featuring regional and local top chefs Frank Terranova and Sara Moulton.
Time: Thursday-Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Admission: Adults, $18; Senior/Student/Evening, $15; Group of 15 or more, $15; children age 6-12, $7.
Information: www.flowershow.com.


Top of Events