BOTANICAL GARDEN & BUTTERFLY HOUSE HAPPY HOURS THROUGHOUT OCTOBER

Throughout the month of October, the Missouri Botanical Garden hosts several events that highlight St. Louis’ diverse spirits scene, while enjoying the autumnal atmosphere at the Garden and the Butterfly House. 

By Jessika Eidson

Photography by Demi Striglos (butterfly photo) and Kat Niehaus (owl photo)

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Fest-of-Ale
missouri botanical garden 
October 2, 6–9 p.m. 
$40 for garden members, $50 for nonmembers and $20 for designated drivers. 
 
Beer just tastes better at the Garden. Hosted by the Garden's Young Friends Council, Fest-of-Ale is a favorite fall activity for those who enjoy sampling St. Louis' best breweries while supporting a good cause. 
 
The 21+ night features samples from the region’s best breweries, live music, local food for purchase and the legendary Biggest Beer Basket West of the Mississippi Raffle. Grab your complimentary tasting glass and sip your way through the local beer scene. 
 
Event proceeds benefit the Garden's Outdoor Youth Corps education and workforce development program, which connects St. Louis region youth ages 16 to 24 with environmental stewardship projects, community engagement opportunities and potential environmental careers. 

Spirits in the Garden missouri botanical garden 
October 23, 6–8 p.m. 
$32 for garden members, $35 for nonmembers.
 
Halloween lovers will enjoy the Garden’s annual night of music, samplings  and exploring the paranormal. 
Guests can enjoy seasonal samples of whisky, beer, wine and even mocktails created by St. Louis diverse vendors of spirits. A souvenir tasting glass is included with every ticket.   

Along with samplings, the evening features a costume contest, meet-and-greets with local paranormal investigators, discussions with plant experts about how plants are used in our favorite drinks, live pumpkin carving, tarot reading and evening tours of spots in the Garden that some say are haunted.  

This popular holiday event sells out every year, so we encourage attendees to get their tickets online early. 

Wicked Wings
and Wine
sophia m. sachs
butterfly house 
October 16, 5:30–7:30 p.m. 
$25 for garden members, $30 for nonmembers and $15 for designated drivers.
 
This wickedly wonderful happy hour at the Butterfly House celebrates the spirit of witchiness and highlights the magic of the Owl butterflies in flight. Sample local brews, wines and spirits while you learn about spooky animals, including feathered friends from the World Bird Sanctuary. Grab a bite, take a stroll through the outdoor garden, and enjoy live music. The Bug Chef will be cooking up some tasty snacks too, if you dare. 

 

 

What's in Bloom

Along with these seasonal happy hours, the Garden also offers plenty of autumnal blooms throughout October. Vibrant Chrysanthemums are on display throughout the Garden, including the awe-inspiring cascade mums of the Japanese Garden. In late October, you might also spot some fall foliage emerging in the English Woodland Garden; the bright, golden gingko leaves are a must-see for fall lovers.