Come see beautiful butterflies in Elk Grove

t’s time to come out of your cocoon and flit over to The Secret Garden in Elk Grove. Why? To see the butterflies!

Over the next two weekends, the destination nursery will host its annual Butterfly Fest, a celebration of its local population of Gulf fritillary butterflies. With distinctive bright orange wings, these butterflies gravitate to passionflower vines to lay their eggs – and this local population knows where to find some.

“Join us for one of our favorite traditions – Butterfly Fest!” say the hosts. “This family-friendly event celebrates the magic of the Gulf fritillary butterflies that call The Secret Garden home. These beautiful orange-winged pollinators return each year to lay their eggs on our thriving passionvine, their host plant, and we invite you to witness the wonder up close!”

Butterfly-themed events will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 13 and 14 and Sept. 20 and 21. Admission is free and families are encouraged to attend.

At 11 a.m. each day, enjoy a guided tour of the butterfly habitat, add the hosts. “Take a guided walk through the garden and experience every stage of the butterfly’s transformation: from tiny eggs to hungry caterpillars, camouflage chrysalises, and finally graceful adult butterflies dancing in the garden.”

Get expert advice on planting your own butterfly-friendly garden. Perennials including many pollinator favorites will be offered at a 15% discount.

In addition, free face painting will be offered for kids of all ages along with scavenger hunts and a coloring station. A coffee cart will serve beverages and treats.

The Secret Garden is located at 8450 W. Stockton Blvd., Elk Grove.

For details and directions: https://www.secretgarden-online.com/