Nature’s Classroom: Spring Ley Field Garden Picnic

Join us for a magical evening in the heart of Greenacres’ Ley Field, where Nature’s Classroom comes to life with hands-on activities, blooming gardens, and a fresh, picnic-style dinner provided by our team.

As you take in sweeping views of the pasture and spring flowers, enjoy guided educational stations, create your own bouquet from seasonal blooms, engage with our research team in pollinator discovery, and take home a bag of produce and your handcrafted floral arrangement. It’s a unique opportunity for families to connect with nature, learn about regenerative agriculture, and celebrate the beauty of the season together.

What to Expect

As the sun sets over the hillside garden, our garden and research teams will guide you through the centuries-old method of pre-industrial ley farming, a practice that combines diverse vegetable and cut flower crops with rotational grazing to build healthy soil and support biodiversity.

Learn how integrating animals and plants strengthens our local food system, and discover how Greenacres is using these principles to create a vibrant, sustainable future. Plus, our research team will be on-site sharing interactive pollinator studies—including bug net sweeping!

In addition to immersive learning, enjoy:

• • • A fresh picnic meal (boxed options available below)
    • Make-your-own bouquet bar (flower selection may vary by availability)
    • Kid-friendly activity stations
    • A bag of fresh produce + your harvested bouquet to take home (one per household)

Please note: The Ley Field is a short hike from the parking area and includes uneven, natural terrain. Guests should be prepared for a walk up a small hill and wear appropriate footwear.

What to Bring

• • • Picnic blankets or lawn chairs
    • Sunscreen and reusable water bottles

Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Meal Options

Each ticket includes a boxed meal. At checkout, please choose:

• • • Italian
      • Smoked Mozzarella, Salami, Capicola, Tomato, Spinach, Marinated Roasted Red Peppers, Basil Aioli on a Baguette
    • Vegetarian
      • Fresh Mozzarella, Thyme Roasted Tomatoes, Spinach, Balsamic Drizzle, Pesto Mayo on Ciabatta
    • Kids Meal
      • Turkey and Cheese Sandwich, Apple Sauce, Chocolate Chip Cookie

Both sandwiches are served with fresh fruit salad, chips, and a cookie.

Tickets

• • • Adults: $25
    • Children (6–17): $15
    • Children 5 & under: Free (no meal included)
      • Want a meal for your little one? Please purchase a kids ticket.

Tickets must be purchased online no later than May 12, 2025. Space is limited, and we expect this event to sell out early—secure your spot today!

Weather Policy

In the case of rain or extreme weather, the event will be rescheduled to Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Please opt in to SMS updates at checkout to receive weather-related alerts.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please call Greenacres at 513-891-4227 or email events@green-acres.org.

No pets are allowed (ADA Certified Service Animals only).