Gardens

K-State Gardens 150

For 150 years, the Gardens have been a beautiful part of the Kansas State University campus. In 2025 we're celebrating this milestone with a variety of exciting events.

We're excited to share our full event schedule for the 150th celebration! More information regarding the 150th events will continue to be announced in the coming months.

Registration is required for many of the events. Details on how to register will be coming soon.

150th KSU Gardens Anniversary Kick-off Celebration

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11
K-State Alumni Center

1720 Anderson Ave., Manhattan, KS
Don’t miss this event! A reservation includes lunch from Nico’s, two guest speakers: Dr. Chuck Marr, Emeritus Professor of Horticulture at KSU, and Karl Gercens III, Longwood Gardens and entertainment by a local quartet. Learn about what is in store for 2025 in the Gardens!

Wine and Roses

6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25
Union Hall Atrium
328 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS

Forcing Bulbs Workshop

5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 6
Throckmorton Hall, Room 2022

High Tea

Saturday, March 29
Foundation Building
1800 Kimball Ave, Ste 200, Manhattan, KS

K-State Open House

9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday, April 12
K-State Gardens

Egg-Stravaganza Photo Op

9 a.m.- noon, Saturday, April 19
K-State Gardens

This is your chance to get a family photo with the Easter Bunny in the beautiful spring gardens of KSU Gardens.

Run for the Roses

8 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 26
K-State Gardens

It’s a 5K Run and a 1K Walk opportunity on the K-State Campus. Join the fun and support the Gardens. Give-a-ways, snacks, Willie-the Wildcat and the KSU Pep Band and cheerleaders, Face Painting and Balloon Artists. Watch for various sign-up opportunities for individuals and groups.

One Day Bus Trip to Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska

Thursday, May 22
Meet at the east side of the Manhattan Mall at 6:30 a.m.

An amazing day visiting the Lincoln Sunken Garden (one of the top 300 public gardens in the USA and the Omaha Botanical Garden as well as Murhall’s Nursery for your shopping pleasure.
Arrow Stage Lines and Hy-Vee catering will assist in making your trip a comfortable one!

Garden Party Gala

6:30 p.m. Friday, June 6
K-State Gardens

Celebrate the beauty of the gardens in style!

Konza Farm to Table

6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8
K-State Gardens

Enjoy garden products and other tasty food in a casual, but beautiful setting.

Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours

5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10
K-State Gardens

Mingle in the KSU Gardens with Chamber of Commerce Friends. Door prizes, food and drink provided.

September Stroll + Quinlan Society Recognition

5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12
K-State Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful fall gardens and give recognition to our many generous KSU Garden donors. Music will be provided and light refreshments will be served.

Painted Pumpkins in the Gardens

All day, Saturday, Oct. 25 (Tentative date depending on home football schedule).
K-State Gardens

Come and visit the gardens as they feature painted pumpkins designed by Manhattan students (8/9-12 grades).

Poinsettia Sales

Nov. 19-21 (Online sales begin Nov. 1-14).
K-State Gardens

Pick up your lovely poinsettia at the Quinlan Center.

150th Garden Celebration Finale

1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6
K-State Alumni Center

Come see KSU Gardens from the past, from 2025, and a hopeful glimpse of the future! KSU Gardens Director Scott McElwain will speak and give a recap of the Garden growth. Highlights include visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, The Grinch, various local performing groups, photo ops, cookies and a cocoa bar.