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K-State Gardens celebrate 150 years in 2025
KSU wildcat

MANHATTAN — In 2025, the Kansas State University Gardens, a destination for students, faculty, staff and the Manhattan community, will celebrate a remarkable milestone: 150 years of growth, service and community.

The university will commemorate the anniversary with a yearlong celebration honoring the rich legacy of horticultural excellence. There will be opportunities to celebrate the gardens throughout 2025 with a variety of events across campus and the Manhattan community.

“Celebrating 150 years is a testament to the K-State Gardens’ inspiring effect on those who visit,” said Scott McElwain, director of the gardens. “The anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect, to look forward to our promising future and to thank those who have helped nurture the gardens throughout the years. We can’t wait to celebrate with the K-State family next year.”

The festivities will begin with the 150th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, in the K-State Alumni Center. Indulge in a luncheon and journey through the storied past of the Gardens with the esteemed Chuck Marr, emeritus professor of horticulture at K-State. Then dive deeper into the world of ornamental horticulture with a captivating talk by renowned horticulturist Karl Gercens III from Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square, Penn.

Tickets for the kickoff celebration are available for purchase now.

K-State First Lady Sally Linton will host Wine and Roses on Feb. 25, 2025. Guests are invited to join her for a five-course wine paring at Union Hall, 328 Poyntz Ave.

Other celebratory events throughout the year include the Forcing Bulbs Workshop on March 6, 2025, High Tea on March 29, 2025 and Konza Farm to Table on Aug. 8, 2025. Popular K-State Gardens annual events such as the Run for the Roses, the Garden Party and the September Stroll will also be part of the 150th anniversary schedule. 

The celebration will come to a close with a holiday event scheduled for Dec. 6, 2025.

See the online schedule of events at https://www.k-state.edu/gardens/150/ for more event details. Paid registration is required for some of the events.

Information regarding event registration will continue to be revealed throughout the year. For the most up-to-date information, visit the K-State Gardens 150 website.

“The K-State Gardens are a shining testament to K-State’s dedication to community engagement and educational outreach,” said Marshall Stewart, executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff at K-State. “This milestone highlights the profound impact this special corner of campus has had on the K-State community. We look forward to honoring the Gardens in 2025 and celebrating those who have worked tirelessly to keep it flourishing for 150 years.”