There’s a 100th birthday party going on and a camellia fest, too

The Camellia House at the Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay just turned 100-years-old; wow! And, to pay tribute to this milestone, a birthday party celebration is being held at this year’s Camellia Festival, showcasing the camellia blooms of more than 200 camellia shrubs and trees and featuring an array of activities throughout the arboretum’s grounds, on Feb. 19.

While you walk amongst these beauteous blooms, you will be accompanied by the live music of Alan & Hugo, Brooklyn Flamenco Guitarists and Quatrain Barbershop Quartet. The fest is held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; but at 3 p.m., the cake-cutting ceremony, with a huge cake that you won’t want to miss, is to be held on the Camellia House lawn. And, don’t forget to check out Rich Daly, an ice-carving artist from Ice Melodies, who will be creating an ice sculpture of the Camellia House.

In Coe Hall, guests can visit the Mad Hatter at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, with storytellers Jonathan Kruk as the Mad Hatter and Andrea Sadler as the Queen of Hearts; and also see magician Robert Austin performing in magic shows throughout the afternoon, with live animals and levitation tricks. Stop by the Hay Barn, as well, for interactive family entertainment. face painting, balloon art and games.

On Sunday, we’re supposed to get around-60 degree temps (finally). So, go enjoy the nice weather, have some festival fun and eat your cake, too!

The Camellia House Festival and Birthday
Planting Fields Arboretum
1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
516-922-8678 · plantingfields.org