US Botanic Garden Unveils "Pollinators" Holiday Theme

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Our nation’s capital is one of the most unique places to visit during the holidays. Wreaths hang over the White House, a giant Christmas tree is on the front lawn of the Capitol building and US Botanic Gardens have their own fun and unique way to spread holiday cheer. They unveiled their “pollinator” holiday theme.  

“I think it's a wonderful theme this time of year because as people gather to enjoy these wonderful feasts that they’ve put together, a lot of it is due to pollinators who are pollinating the crops that go into the food that they eat,” said Amy Volton, Director of Learning and Engagement at the US Botanic Garden.  

Volton said planning for their holiday show starts when the holidays end. This year, they’ve put together several pieces around the Botanic Garden, like this Christmas tree arrangement with some plant-centric ornaments.  

“Dried oranges, dried berries, dried flowers to get people to think about how you can use plants in your everyday life and bring them into your home as decoration,” said Volton. 

One of a kind wreaths created by the horticulture team.  

“Put together living wreaths of different plants that are featured in the different glass houses,” said Volton. “When you go into the desert there’s a live wreath made out of succulents.” 

As well as models of iconic DC spots like the National Mall and the US Capitol. They’re all made from plants. One of the largest projects was their pollinator-themed train set.  

“It is surprising when you think about pollinators and all of the diversity of pollinators that are out there,” said Volton. “It’s more than bees. Some of the surprising ones are mosquitoes that are pollinators, lemurs are pollinators, birds are pollinators, beetles are pollinators. And what we’re trying to do with this display is bring out the more surprising pollinators, so people think more deeply about the importance of connection between pollinators and plants.” 

This holiday show will stay open through January fifth.