Gardens unveils 2025 events

Art

Jan 22

The Tribute by Olivero Rainaldi
Photo courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, one of the world's most visited cultural and horticultural destinations, has announced its 2025 calendar of events. This year’s events include celebrating a landmark "120 Seasons" and continuing its commitment to promoting art, culture, and nature. The gardens also will commemorate its 30th anniversary with birthday cake for guests on April 20.

“We are thrilled to embark on our 30th year of creating unforgettable experiences for our community and visitors from around the world,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “As a place where art, culture, and nature come together, Meijer Gardens offers something truly special for everyone. We look forward to welcoming guests of all ages to discover the joy, beauty, and inspiration that await around every corner."

In addition to perennial favorites like The Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming, Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens, MUMS at Meijer Gardens, and
The University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions, the year will be punctuated by sculpture exhibitions of national significance, including BUSTED: Contemporary Sculpture Busts (April 4-Sept. 21) and Jaume Plensa: A New Humanism (Oct. 24, 2025-March 15, 2026). ENLIGHTEN also returns for a second year in November with all-new lighting and musical elements.

Featured Annual Exhibitions and Special Events:

David Smith: The Nature of Sculpture: through March 2
BUSTED: Contemporary Sculpture Busts: April 4–Sept. 21. A unique sculpture exhibition, featuring contemporary busts by celebrated artists.
Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming: March 1–April 30. The annual butterfly exhibition returns, transforming the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory into a colorful sanctuary with thousands of tropical butterflies.
Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club: Tuesdays, June 17–August 26, from 7-9 pm. Featuring diverse local and regional artists in an intimate setting, Tuesday evenings are ideal for enjoying music outside in a scenic atmosphere.
Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens: Various dates, lineup announced in April. A beloved tradition, these concerts bring top musicians to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater all summer long.
MUMS at Meijer Gardens: Oct. 1–31. MUMS at Meijer Gardens showcases Michigan’s largest display of chrysanthemums. This vibrant exhibition features fall programming, Tuesday evening events and thousands of garden and specialty mums in stunning autumn colors.
Autumn Nights at Meijer Gardens: Tuesdays in October from 5-9 pm. Guests enjoy evening hours and special programming amidst autumn beauty.
Jaume Plensa: A New Humanism: Oct. 24, 2025–March 15, 2026. This exhibition explores the artist’s career-long engagement with universal human themes such as dreams, desire, justice and mortality.
University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions: Nov. 26, 2025–Jan 4, 2026. The signature holiday exhibition returns with international décor, displays and traditions, engaging programming, and a festive atmosphere.
ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens: Nov. 26, 2025–Jan. 3, 2026. This immersive experience returns, featuring a stunning one-mile illuminated pathway with innovative light displays, enchanting music, interactive experiences, and world-renowned sculpture.