A Snowy Surprise for Ghouls and Gourds

Last Saturday's strange snowstorm unfortunately coincided with our annual Halloween celebration, Ghouls and Gourds, which director of Public Programs Anita Jacobs and her crew meticulously planned as a day of zany, engaging activities and performances with a Victorian flair. The unexpectedly heavy precipitation forced us to call off Ghouls and Gourds within its first hour, but—in true BBG style—the visitors, performers, and staff on hand didn't just head for the hills. Instead, we decamped to the Administration building, where The Richmond Indigenous Gourd Orchestra, Xylofolks and Maracatu NY performed rousing sets that had everybody jumping; Phydeaux's Flying Flea Circus did an impromptu performance in a hallway; and merry cheer was shared by all.

And the photographers on hand weren't mourning either, as the opportunity to capture the Garden in the snow—surely one of its loveliest forms—revealed itself, this time with the special chance to see fall's vibrant colors dusted with white. Luckily, our trees and other plant collections didn't suffer too badly at the hands of the storm, and so we invite you to visit before the seasonal foliage fades away. Till then, enjoy the images of this rare weather event at BBG below!