Lauritzen Gardens - Omaha Botanical Center

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Programs for Adults

Program Calendar

Click above to see our full schedule of educational opportunities by month on a shoppable calendar.

Browse by Program Category

Prefer to see classes by category? Click above to see our categorized schedule of adult education programs.

NEW Registration Platform

Program registration has migrated from Altru to a NEW platform called XtruLink. Garden members must create a membership account and log in to receive access to discounts on classes, workshops, and camps. Click on the link above for set-up instructions or contact the garden at (402) 346-4002, ext. 201 for assistance. Please note that your previous Altru login will not work on this platform.

Wednesday, November 19 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Botanical Book Club: The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Two sessions: November 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. (handout books and introductory discussion), December 3 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Based on the lessons we find in the natural world, this book offers a look into how we can center our lives around gratitude, reciprocity, and community. $40, $30 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Ceramics: Santa and Snowflakes

Add a personal and seasonal touch to your home décor with handmade pieces. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll sculpt and create your own designs using clay. Learn basic to advanced pottery skills as you explore different options to make your creations unique. All supplies are included. Pre-registration is required. $70, $60 for garden members.

Thursday, November 20 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Watercolor: YUPO

Explore mixed media techniques on the unique surface of YUPO® paper. YUPO® is a thin synthetic paper that is nonabsorbent and can be used to capture loose, striking textures and colors. Dive into a world beyond your palette by experimenting with liquid watercolors and ink to create unique, spontaneous paintings. All supplies are provided. Pre-registration is required. $55, $45 for garden members.

Holiday Card and Gift Tag Crafting with Wendy Townley

Send a little handmade cheer this holiday season as you make your own Christmas cards and gift tags to send and give. All supplies will be provided-including cards of various sizes, holiday-themed base layers, and a colorful variety of festive embellishments and sentiments. Pre-registration is required. $40, $35 for garden members.

Monday, November 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Botanical Design: Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Explore the elements of floral design focal points, balance, height, and dimension while creating a fresh table centerpiece to proudly display or give as a gift. Blending traditional and modern styles, we’ll reimagine the classic cornucopia with a monochromatic color palette and unexpected accents. $75, $65 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Tuesday, December 2 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Cacao Ceremony Meditation

Rooted in ancient tradition, the cacao ceremony is a mindful, heart-opening experience that connects participants to nature, community, and inner reflection. Learn about the origins and cultural significance of ceremonial cacao while experiencing its natural benefits—such as improved focus, emotional clarity, and a gentle sense of well-being. Pre-registration is required. $25, $20 for garden members.

Tuesday, December 2 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Terrariums for Gifts with Nodest Home Plants

In just one hour, we will walk you through creating a terrarium— a mini jungle that is easy to care for and fun to build. We will provide everything you need to create your own unique living world, from plants to decorative elements. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to keep it healthy and thriving. Feel free to bring any small items to make your terrarium extra special! Come get your hands a little dirty and leave with a beautiful, living piece of nature to enjoy or to give as a gift. Pre-registration is required. $60. $50 for garden members.

Saturday, December 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Basket Weaving: Snowberry

Basket weaving is an ancient art form that uses botanical materials to create functional pieces that you can enjoy for years to come. This month, join Jeannie Sisson and create your own snowberry basket. $55, $45 for garden members.

Saturday, December 6 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Botanical Design: Winter Wreath

Create a fresh holiday wreath from scratch with this hands-on floral design class. Starting with a wire frame and mix of evergreen varieties, you’ll learn traditional wreath making techniques and personalize your piece with festive details. $75, $65 for garden members.

Sunday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to noon

Christmas Candle Making Workshop with Telle & Resa Candle Co.

Join us for a fun and easy candle-making workshop to make and customize your own 10 oz. soy candle. Includes all natural ingredients and the materials needed to create a candle perfect for any space. Pre-registration is required. $50, $40 for garden members.

Sunday, December 7 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Hand Papermaking: Watermarks

Discover the magic hidden in paper! Watermarks are secret designs embedded as a sheet is formed, only revealed when light shines through the thinner areas. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the art of creating watermarks and craft your very own watermarked sheets to take home. $50, $40 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Acrylic Painting: Desert Sunset Cacti

Let nature inspire your creativity in this desert-inspired acrylic painting class at Lauritzen Gardens. Guided by instructor Ariel Shearer, you'll explore color, movement, and form to create your own sunset scene. With step-by-step techniques, you'll layer brushstrokes to capture the warmth, depth, and beauty of the desert at dusk. All supplies are provided. $35, $30 for garden members. Pre-registration is required at a least one week in advance of the course.

Tuesday, December 9 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Terrariums for Gifts with Nodest Home Plants

In just one hour, we will walk you through creating a terrarium— a mini jungle that is easy to care for and fun to build. We will provide everything you need to create your own unique living world, from plants to decorative elements. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to keep it healthy and thriving. Feel free to bring any small items to make your terrarium extra special! Come get your hands a little dirty and leave with a beautiful, living piece of nature to enjoy or to give as a gift. Pre-registration is required. $60. $50 for garden members.

Wednesday, December 10 from 6 to 7 p.m.

Botanical Book Club: Playground by Richard Powers

Five sessions: December 10 from 6 to 7 p.m. (handout books and introductory discussion), December 17, January 7 and 21, and February 4 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. This thrilling novel encourages thoughtfulness about the environment, technology, and humanity as it interweaves the stories of four characters across decades and continents, centering on their connection to a controversial seasteading project. $40, $30 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Thursday, December 11 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Basics of Watercolor

Explore the world of watercolor and learn basic techniques to create beautiful and colorful works of art. This course will focus on the fundamentals of watercolor painting, including techniques, materials, tools, color, value, and rendering in watercolor. Absolutely no experience is necessary! This course is a fun way to dip your toe (or brush) into a new medium without the full commitment, as all supplies are provided. $55, $45 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Friday, December 12 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Cookie Decorating Workshop: Christmas Cookies

Get ready for a sweet experience! In this hands-on workshop with Stephanie Wolcott, you'll learn the basics of decorating beautiful, garden-themed sugar cookies—plus tips and techniques to give your creations a polished, professional look. All supplies are provided, and you will leave with a box of decorated treats to take home and enjoy. Appropriate for ages 16 and up. $55, $45 for garden members.

Saturday, December 13 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Build Your Own Moss Terrarium with Moss Hunters

Bring a little nature into your life and tap into your creativity by making a moss terrarium with Moss Hunters. We hand pick all of our own moss, shells, and rocks for our terrariums, and would love to show you all how to make them too! We will provide all the materials needed, just bring yourself and any friends that are ready to learn and have a good time while doing it! $55, $45 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Sunday, December 14, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Polymer Clay Ornaments

In this class you will learn the basics of using polymer clay and how the medium can be mixed, molded, and shaped into vibrant and intricate designs. Participants will customize and decorate 2 miniature ornaments with polymer clay! $35, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Holiday Card and Gift Tag Crafting with Wendy Townley

Send a little handmade cheer this holiday season as you make your own Christmas cards and gift tags to send and give. All supplies will be provided-including cards of various sizes, holiday-themed base layers, and a colorful variety of festive embellishments and sentiments. Pre-registration is required. $40, $35 for garden members.

Wednesday, December 17 from 10 a.m. to noon

Eco Printing with Plant and Flower Compost

Turn nature into your canvas with the art of ecoprinting, where leaves, flowers, and other natural elements are used to transfer color and shape onto fabric. In this hands-on workshop, led by Holly Lukasiewicz of District 2 Floral Studio, you’ll explore how to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs using the organic world around you. $65, $55 for garden members

Friday, December 19 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Mosaic Jewelry Workshop

Craft the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for the holiday season in this mosaic jewelry workshop. Several pendants will be given to each participant, with options to create personalized, garden-inspired, or fun, holiday-inspired designs! Pre-registration is required. $50, $40 for garden members. Image is representative of, but not identical to, the workshop project.

Saturday, December 20 from 10 a.m. to noon

Phone Photography 1

They say the best camera is the one in your hand– your phone! In this class you will learn how to take beautiful pictures with your smartphone. Led by Michele Zephier, you will learn how to focus, compose, and expose images correctly. You will learn about the different adjustment options, how to use filters, and how to take fun, creative images with fresh perspectives. $30, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Saturday, December 20 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Phone Photography 2

In this class, we will go beyond simply how to take photos and take a deep dive into editing and learn the tips and tricks of how to create artistic images both before and AFTER you take a photo. You will leave this class with an understanding of how to use the editing tools on your phone for truly stunning images, how to keep your photos organized, and more. Pre-requisite: Phone Photography 1. $30, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Sunday, December 21 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Botanical Design: Christmas Centerpiece

Check ‘centerpiece’ off your list and immerse yourself in the aroma of fresh evergreen. Working with the basic elements of design, we’ll create a stunning table arrangement with fresh evergreen varieties and beautiful blooms. $75, $65 for garden members.

Thursday, January 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Sound Bathing with Shrader Healing

Join Ellie and Matthew Shrader for an evening of sound bathing, a meditative experience where attendees are "bathed" in sound waves. These waves are produced by a variety of means, including healing instruments such as gongs, Himalayan singing bowls, percussion, chimes, , shruti boxes, and more. Participants report feeling more relaxed, with improved sleep and overall sense of wellbeing. Pre-registration is required. $45, $35 for garden members.

Friday, January 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Charcuterie with Artisan Boards of Omaha

Unlock the secrets of creating the perfect charcuterie board with Artisan Boards of Omaha. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to select and arrange meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and more to create a stunning spread that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, planning a cozy gathering, or simply looking to enhance your entertaining skills, this class will teach you how to design a board that is as beautiful as it is delicious — no matter the season. $100, $85 for garden members (2 people per registration).

Saturday, January 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Needle Felting: Daisy Heart

Join Rhonda Berman of Zipply Art to create an art piece adding a new twist to needle felting. In each class, students will learn also how to prepare a zipper, apply a pattern, embellishment tips and finishing options. Pre-registration is required. $40, $30 for garden members.

Wednesday, January 14 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Junk Journaling with Wendy Townley

Junk Journaling is a creative outlet that uses collage, found items, and self-expression to make unique journal designs. Instructor Wendy Townley will offer hands-on instruction, show techniques, and offer guidance, and encouragement to release perfectionism, as needed. Pre-registration is required. $35, $30 for garden members.

Friday, January 16 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Ceramics: Fairy Houses or Gnomes

Add a personal and seasonal touch to your home décor with handmade pieces. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll sculpt and create your own designs using clay. Learn basic to advanced pottery skills as you explore different options to make your creations unique. All supplies are included. Pre-registration is required. $70, $60 for garden members.

Saturday, January 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Basket Weaving: Be True to Your Heart

Basket weaving is an ancient art form that uses botanical materials to create functional pieces that you can enjoy for years to come. This month, join Jeannie Sisson and create your own basket. $55, $45 for garden members.

Saturday, January 17 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Poetry Writing Workshop: The Ekphrastic Poem

Beat the winter blues, with Julie S. Paschold, by diving into ekphrastic poetry, a form of poetry where the topic is based off of a work of art. Have your favorite piece in mind, or find inspiration from one of the artworks we bring and get ready to write! Pre-registration is required. $20, $15 for garden members.

Saturday, January 17 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Build Your Own Moss Terrarium with Moss Hunters

Bring a little nature into your life and tap into your creativity by making a moss terrarium with Moss Hunters. We hand pick all of our own moss, shells, and rocks for our terrariums, and would love to show you all how to make them too! We will provide all the materials needed, just bring yourself and any friends that are ready to learn and have a good time while doing it! $55, $45 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Sunday, January 18 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Pressed and Framed Flora with Holly Lukasiewicz

This pressed flower workshop will introduce participants to the art and science of preserving botanical elements through flattening and drying techniques. Attendees will learn different pressing methods, explore composition strategies, and leave with a nature-inspired keepsake, framed and mounted on handmade paper. Pre-registration is required. $65, $55 for garden members.

Acrylic Painting: Desert Sunset Cacti

Let nature inspire your creativity in this desert-inspired acrylic painting class at Lauritzen Gardens. Guided by instructor Ariel Shearer, you'll explore color, movement, and form to create your own sunset scene. With step-by-step techniques, you'll layer brushstrokes to capture the warmth, depth, and beauty of the desert at dusk. All supplies are provided. $35, $30 for garden members. Pre-registration is required at a least one week in advance of the course.

Friday, January 23 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Alcohol Ink Botanicals: Winter

Discover how much fun it is to work with alcohol inks as you create your own botanical themed painting! The vibrant colors and the fluid nature of this medium creates an interesting dappled effect when it hits the canvas. With a variety of botanical designs to choose from, you'll craft a beautiful piece of art that's ready for framing. No experience is necessary. Pre-registration is required. $50, $40 for garden members.

Saturday, January 24 from 10 a.m. to noon

Phone Photography 1

They say the best camera is the one in your hand– your phone! In this class you will learn how to take beautiful pictures with your smartphone. Led by Michele Zephier, you will learn how to focus, compose, and expose images correctly. You will learn about the different adjustment options, how to use filters, and how to take fun, creative images with fresh perspectives. $30, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Saturday, January 24 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Phone Photography 2

In this class, we will go beyond simply how to take photos and take a deep dive into editing and learn the tips and tricks of how to create artistic images both before and AFTER you take a photo. You will leave this class with an understanding of how to use the editing tools on your phone for truly stunning images, how to keep your photos organized, and more. Pre-requisite: Phone Photography 1. $30, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Saturday, January 24 from noon to 2 p.m.

Sprinkles Candle Making Workshop with Telle & Resa Candle Co.

Join us for a fun and easy candle-making workshop to make and customize your own 10 oz. soy candle. Includes all natural ingredients and the materials needed to create a candle perfect for any space. Pre-registration is required. $50, $40 for garden members.

Saturday, January 24 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Get To Know Your Camera

Learn about the many functions your camera has to offer! Participants will gain an understanding of what makes a great photo and pick up some tips, tricks, and techniques that professional photographers use. The instructor will provide clear instruction, guidance, and feedback throughout four field exercises, as participants begin to develop their own style. $30, $25 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Sunday, January 25 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Introduction to Sourdough: A Hands-on Bread Making Workshop

Curious about sourdough but not sure where to start? In this beginner-friendly class with Mindy Kneifl of Sourdough Bliss, you’ll learn how to make delicious sourdough bread step by step—from caring for a starter, to mixing, shaping, and baking your own loaf. $65, $55 for garden members.

Thursday, January 29 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Watercolor: Botanical Color Theory

Discover how to use color theory inspired by botanicals to create harmonious art, floral arrangements and more. This class will dive into using watercolors to explore color palettes inspired by nature and create color cards that will help you to navigate your creative endeavors with confidence. $55, $45 for garden members. Pre-registration is required.

Friday, January 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Basket Weaving: Ezri

Basket weaving is an ancient art form that uses botanical materials to create functional pieces that you can enjoy for years to come. This month, join Jeannie Sisson and create your own basket. $55, $45 for garden members.

Friday, January 30 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Ceramics: Garden Markers

Add a personal and seasonal touch to your garden with handmade pieces. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll sculpt and create your own designs using clay. Learn basic to advanced pottery skills as you explore different options to make your creations unique. All supplies are included. Pre-registration is required. $70, $60 for garden members. Image is representative of, but not identical to the project.

Early access at 8:30 a.m. Every Tuesday from April through October 28

Members' Only Walking Club

Walk your way to good health on Tuesday mornings by exploring more than 1.5 miles of trails. Walking in nature will help you fight stress, strengthen your mind and body, and feel rejuvenated. Every Tuesday from April through October 2026. No reservations are required. Drop in and bring your membership card and photo ID.

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