Flower show part of McCrory Gardens Annual Garden Party Aug. 1

BROOKINGS — It is time to mark your calendars for the Annual McCrory Garden Party Aug. 1.

This is a reminder that the date has moved from the third Friday in August to August 1. “It will still be the same wonderful summer event as it has been in the past, just a bit earlier, said Martin Maca, Associate Director of McCrory Gardens. “During the first part of August the Gardens should be in full bloom for guests to enjoy.”

The event features tours, a local jazz band “Murph and Friends,” and fun activities for the kids including; face painting, sidewalk chalk art and temporary tattoos.

Free guided tours will be offered from noon until 5 p.m. Music begins at 6 p.m. along with free SDSU ice cream, which will be served until dusk. New this year, is The Garden Party Flower Show. Entries will be accepted from 3 to 5 p.m., followed by closed judging from 5 to 7 p.m. with a short program at 7 p.m. announcing the winners and open viewing until 8:30 p.m.

The Flower Show categories: Zinnia (small, medium, & large) – 3 stems;

Petunias (single & double) – 3 stems; rose – 1 stem; garden phlox – 1 stem.

Please bring each entry in a clear glass canning jar. Ribbons will be awarded for each category. There is no entry fee.

“I hope that lots of folks will come out and join us for the Garden Party”, said David Graper, SDSU Extension Horticulture Specialist & Director of McCrory Gardens. “It is a long-standing community tradition that we are proud to provide each year.”

We will spray for mosquitoes but it would still be a good idea to bring your own repellant and a long sleeved shirt. Contact us at 605-688-6707 or go to our website www.mccrorygardens.com for more information.

Schedule of Events

• All day: Kid’s activities

• Noon – 5 p.m: Free guided tours, beginning every hour

• 3 – 5 p.m: Entries accepted for Garden Party Flower Show

• 5 – 7 p.m: Closed judging for Garden Party Flower Show

• 6 p.m: Free SDSU ice cream served

• 6 p.m: “Murph and Friends” jazz group begin playing

• 7 – 8:30 p.m: Short award ceremony for Flower Show and public viewing