By Maddie Sievers
Moms Weekend 2017 is quickly approaching! This year, it will take place over the weekend of April 7 through April 9. With so many fun and exciting things for you and your mom to do, it’s easy to spend a lot of money in a short amount of time. However, there are several completely free options that allow both you and your mom to enjoy some quality time together while seeing the best flowers spring has to offer!
62nd Annual Moms Weekend Flower Show
When: Saturday, April 8, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Stock Pavilion
Cost: Free
Check out a decades-old campus tradition: the University of Illinois Horticulture Club’s annual themed flower show! As shown above, a previous year’s theme was Disney princesses. This year they will be displaying gardens around the world in an international-themed delight.
Petals and Paintings Floral Design Exhibition
When: Saturday, April 8, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sunday, April 9, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Where: Krannert Art Museum
Cost: Free
Visit the Krannert to see an array of floral arrangements inspired by the artworks on the first floor of the museum. Yet another time-honored tradition, this year will be the event’s twenty-fifth run.
Plant Biology Conservatory Open House and Plant Sale
When: Saturday, April 8, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: Plant Science Lab
Cost: Free admission
In keeping with the flower theme (because whose mom doesn’t love flowers?), make a pit stop at the Conservatory. Take a peek at some of the department’s beautiful flowers in the orchid and desert rooms. There will also be a plant sale, so your mom can take home a springtime souvenir from your weekend together!
Japan House Spring Open House
When: Saturday, April 8, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: Japan House
Cost: $6 for tea ceremony, everything else free
If you haven’t been to the Japan House before, Moms Weekend is the perfect time to go! The cherry blossom trees, one of the location’s most notorious landmarks, will be in full bloom. If the weather is nice, the lake will be the perfect place to take a relaxing stroll and catch up with your mom. Garden tours will be given by the grounds’ gardener and designer, and the traditional Japanese tea ceremonies will also be held at a reduced rate.
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