ANN ARBOR—A visit to the University of Michigan’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens during daylight reveals blasts of color, intriguing plant collections, meandering educational trails, and the workings of a constructed wetland.

But visiting Matthaei by moonlight opens doors to unexpected opportunities. “Matthaei by Moonlight” on July 28 is a fund-raising event that begins at 7 p.m. with entertainment by the Dexter String Quartet in the Herb Knot Garden, then moves indoors to the decorated “inner workspace” of the Conservatory for dinner followed by dancing to the Underground Jazz Trio in the auditorium until midnight.

A highlight of the dinner will be music provided by a pianist presenting a repertoire of musical pieces with the words garden or moonlight in the lyrics or title.

“Not only does ‘Matthaei by Moonlight’ showcase our gardens at their peak, providing an outstanding venue for this gala event but the proceeds help to fund our highest priority projects; ones that contribute to permanent improvements to the Gardens,” says the Gardens’ Associate Director Brian Klatt.

Funds raised will be used to construct an arbor connecting the Herb Knot Garden to the north end of the ellipse where a labyrinth is planned.

Guests will also be able to enjoy a guided tour of the Conservatory with Tom Gaffield, a volunteer and docent at the Gardens. And for an up-close and personal look at the moon itself, the Lowbrow Astronomers will have telescopes set up for guests to use.

Reservations for this extravaganza must be made by
Festive summer attire is suggested. Co-chairmen of the event are Bill Sikkenga and Kathy Fojtik-Stroud.

Matthaei Botanical GardensHerb Knot GardenLowbrow Astronomers