Peacocks and Bluegrass Make Pleasant Match at Arboretum
Picnics, peacocks and pop--and a little country and bluegrass, too.
One might not expect all this at a botanic garden, but that’s what’s coming out of the bushes at the State and County Arboretum tonight. It’s the annual picnic-concert, and singer Louise Mandrell will be there to belt out a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll and a lot of country.
The stars above and the lush gardens of the 127-acre botanical retreat below will provide a scenic setting for the Mandrell concert--and for picnickers, whether planning a romantic dinner for two, with candelabra and crystal wine glasses, or chicken in a bucket and canned sodas for all the kids.
From 6 to 8 p.m., before the music begins, concert-goers can enjoy their victuals in the serenity of the designated area on the lawn near Bauer Pool, or take an after-dinner stroll around the grounds.
West of the lawn, the Naked Lady lilies and oleander are putting on a show of blooms near the Bog Garden, which was completed last month. At the center of the garden is an 8-foot wall made of volcanic rock, from which plants are growing.
South of the picnic area is the Lasca Lagoon, a spring-fed lake at the center of the gardens and of the historic area.
Before admiring the sunset across the water, wander around the Hugo Reid Adobe, built by (and named for) the former rancho’s original owner in 1840, and Queen Cottage and coach barn, built by E. J. (Lucky) Baldwin in the 1880s.
Familiar Cottage
The gingerbread cottage is easily recognized by viewers of the TV show “Fantasy Island.”
Also within an easy walk from the picnic-concert area are the Jungle Garden, waterfall and, north of the lawn, the South African section, where several varieties of aloes flourish.
And as dusk settles in (possibly following a solo by at least one of the arboretum’s peacocks) singer-dancer Mandrell, best known for the TV show co-starring sisters Barbara and Irlene in the early ‘80s, will perform until 10 p.m.
In 1981, Mandrell was named most promising female vocalist at the Music City News Cover Awards and shared with her sisters the award for best comedy act. She has since recorded an album, taped a television special, written a book and toured with her Las Vegas-style road show.
Vendors will provide refreshments on the grounds, and the Peacock Pavilion coffee shop will be open until 8:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by the nonprofit Arboretum Foundation and Arcadia Chamber of Commerce. Bring low chairs or blankets to sit on.
State and County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Admission: Adults, $15; children 12 and younger accompanied by an adult, free. Information: (818) 446-8251.
