All Aboard for Gardenland Express!

December is a lively and festive month and the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks in Fayetteville joins in the fun with its Gardenland Express.

This family event features garden-scale trains in a winter wonderland setting. The trains, owned and operated by the Sugar Creek Train Club and the Northwest Arkansas Garden Railway Society will chug through a hilly landscape of Christmas village pieces, lighted trees, wreaths and swags donated and created by BGO garden staff and volunteers.

On Dec. 1, the Gardenland Express will open for the season and be open on Dec. 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday hours are 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 5 – 12. Children under 5 are free.

You can also enjoy Rowen Express Barrel Train rides and visits with Santa each of the six days that Gardenland is open.

Also on Dec. 1, the annual Holiday Farmer’s Market will stretch from the tent in the meadow to the BGO terrace and will feature handmade gifts and holiday crafts, including items created by the BGO staff. Local artists and craftsmen will be offering candy, baked goods, fresh produce, baskets, wreaths, furniture, art and birdhouses.

There are two special holiday classes on Dec. 1 as well: a wreath making class for adults at 10 a.m. and a wildlife ornaments class for families on at 1:30 p.m. Registration and payment are required in advance using www.bgozarks.org or by calling 750-2620.