Agave Fest
A month-long celebration of an iconic genus
Celebrate one of the most iconic plants of The Ruth Bancroft Garden with a month-long tribute to agaves – bold, sculptural, and one of the most beloved plants in the Garden!
Event Highlights:
Kickoff Webinar July 1 at 11am
Join longtime curator Brian Kemble as he shares standout agaves from the Garden’s collection, highlighting some of the most iconic and unusual species in cultivation.
Curator-led Lecture - July 11 at 10am
Experience Brian Kemble’s engaging talk, previously presented to leadership at the American Public Gardens Association annual conference in June, exploring agaves as powerful focal plants, from the nursery trade to wild habitats.
Curator-led Tour - July 11 at 11:30am
Take part in an intimate, guided tour of the Garden’s agave collection, many in dramatic bloom, offering a rare chance to witness their spectacular final flowering.
Pop-up Plant Sale - July 11 from 9am-1pm
Shop a curated selection of unique agaves from the private greenhouse collections of Curator Brian Kemble and Garden Manager Walker Young.
Mezcal Tasting - July 18 from 5pm - 7pm
Join us for a summer evening in the Garden with a guided tour led by longtime curator Brian Kemble and Susan Coss, co-founder of Mezcalistas. Guests will enjoy a private mezcal tasting and learn about the “spirit of the agave.”
Ethnobotany Webinar (All month)
Ethnobotany Webinar – Enjoy a fascinating presentation by Hualapai ethnobotanist Carrie Cannon on the cultural history of mescal agave and its deep connections to people over time.
Explore Together: Activity for Kids and Families - July 26 from 9am-2pm
Special Exploration Station about the many uses of agaves, including related craft.
Exclusive Nursery Sale for Members (All month) – 20% off Agaves
Sale on limited-edition notecards featuring Curator Brian Kemble’s agave photography. One of a kind tea towels made by Ms. Dumont featuring Brian’s art. Pick up a copy of Jeff Moore’s richly illustrated deep dive into the world of agaves – Agaves: Species, Cultivars, Hybrids to wet your appetite!
