Our Sunset Series is back for a third season ! We are very excited to take what we learned from last year to create the best possible experience for ALL every Thursday night this summer. Here, we will try to answer all the burning questions we’re sure you have regarding this year’s Sunset Series, which begins June 20 and will continue every Thursday through August with the exception of July 4. If you already have tickets or you are still toying with the idea of purchasing tickets, make sure to read this guide so you’re best prepared to make the nights yours!
Please remember, while Sunset Series does feature a musical act every week, you’re free to explore our entire 87 acres as the sun begins to set on our beautiful collections and indulge in a little food and beverage. All of the funds from the event – including your food and beverage purchases – go back into the Garden to help fund programming and collections like our new Marilyn and John Long Children and Family Garden.
So, let’s start!
- Food and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) available for purchase from Dottie’s Koi Pond Menu
- Live entertainment (Upper Meadow)
- Kids’ Zone activities with Ms. Allison (Lower Meadow)
- Lawn games (Lower Meadow)
- SOAR (for VIP ticket holders only)
When does the Sunset Series take place? The Sunset Series is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. every Thursday starting June 20 through August 29 with the exception of July 4.
Do I need tickets for the Sunset Series? Yes! Tickets are limited, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
How much are tickets? Members are $15 per person and non-members are $18 per person. Children 4 and younger are FREE! VIP tickets are Members are $35 per person and non-members are $39 per person. Children 4 and younger are FREE!
What does the VIP ticket get you? A VIP ticket allows you access to a premium seating area with Adirondack Chairs for your convenience (no need to bring your own chairs!), access to the VIP bar, one free Hard Butterfly Palmer per ticketholder, a free SCBG souvenir light-up cup, 30 minutes of VIP time with Ms. Allison, unlimited access to SOAR – Tropical Butterflies throughout the night and early entry into the Garden (5 p.m. rather than 5:30 p.m.).
What food and beverage will you be serving? There is a Series’ Menu that will remain the same every Thursday night as well as nightly specials that are on theme for that night’s band. You can see both the Series’ Menu and the nightly specials here. There will also be a full bar serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If you want an ice cream or a small snack, you can also stop by our Kiosk in Palm Circle after 5:45 p.m.
Can I bring outside food and drink? No, outside food and drink is not permitted during the Sunset Series.
Will there be seating? There is seating provided for VIP ticketholders and a limited amount of seating available at Dottie’s and various areas throughout the Garden. If you are not a VIP ticketholder, it is recommended you bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs for seating.
Will SOAR be open? SOAR will only accessible for those with a VIP ticket.
Who is this event for? Everyone! We truly want to open the Garden for ALL and allow you to make the night yours!
Who is Ms. Allison and what kids activities will there be? Ms. Allison taught our very popular Movin’ and Groovin’ children’s class during the pandemic. She will be back in the Garden providing free entertainment with various kids activities – think lawn bowling, parachute play, bubbles and more – from 5 to 8 p.m.
Do I need to watch my child while they play with Ms. Allison? Yes! Parents are asked to chaperone their child at all times. Children under 3 must be accompanied inside the play area at all times.
Where will I find Ms. Allison? Ms. Allison will be set up on the Lower Meadow.
So, what about the music…? Each night of the series there will be live music on the Upper Meadow. The lineup for the season is listed on the Sunset Series website. The performers will do two 45-minute sets with a 30-minute break in-between, so they’ll perform 6-6:45 p.m. and 7:15-8 p.m.
I plan to order food, where can I eat it? There will be limited seating available at Dottie’s to enjoy food and beverage. You may also take the food to picnic in the Upper Meadow to enjoy the music, or elsewhere in the Garden.
What should I bring? The most important thing to bring is your ticket! To purchase food and drink, you’ll need a credit or debit card as cash is not accepted. If you are not a VIP ticketholder and need guaranteed seating, a picnic blanket or lawn chair is recommended. Members should also bring their digital membership cards to take advantage of their 10% off food and beverage.
What time can I come? Guests will not be allowed in the Garden until 5:30 p.m. unless they have a VIP ticket. VIP entry is 5 p.m.
Still need a ticket? Grab one here.
