Petals & Promenade: A Regency Ball at the Garden (18+)
Sunday, July 26, 2026 | 6–10 PM

This event has concluded.

Dearest Gentle Reader,

It is with great delight and utmost enthusiasm that this author announces the season’s most anticipated affair. You are cordially invited to an evening of elegance and intrigue—a Regency-era ball to be held among the summer’s most enchanting blooms. One can only imagine what secrets such a setting may coax into the open…

On an evening soon to be whispered about, guests will be presented to Her Majesty the Queen, who, alongside her court, will observe the evening’s proceedings with great interest. A most accomplished string quartet and harpist will set the tone, as guests take to the floor for guided Regency dance lessons and spirited group dancing.

Throughout the evening, one may delight in a curated selection of amusing activities, captivating drag performers, and the finest of refreshments. For those inclined toward quieter pursuits, promenade along the garden paths at golden hour and capture a timeless moment (or an overheard confidence) among the blooms. Take care near the whispering willows, however—they are known not to keep quiet.

Guests are encouraged to wear their finest Regency-inspired attire. After all, no one wishes to be the only one out of fashion.

This is no ordinary gathering, but an evening of refinement, charm, and revelry—an experience not to be missed. But do remember, dear reader: every rose has its thorn, and every ball has its secrets.

Yours most observantly,
Lady Thistledown

Looking to add to your experience? Check out our other Regency-inspired programs!

Sunday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Register here

Looking for inspiration for your Regency ball attire? Join textile artist and historic fashion expert, Liz Ives, to learn the essential foundations for Regency era style, how florals played a role in the fashion of the time, and instruction for how to thrift, curate, or translate these historical features into a more modern ensemble.

Member: $25, Non-member: $38

Sunday, July 26, 4–5:30 p.m. | This event is SOLD OUT.

Join us before the ball for an afternoon of delicate bites, fragrant teas, and spirited conversation. Served in the traditional style, this Regency-inspired gathering features tiered trays of sweet and savory treats alongside botanical tea blends worthy of the finest drawing rooms.

Member: $55, Non-member: $65

Sunday, August 2, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Register here

Create a charming floral centerpiece using vintage teapots and fresh garden blooms like sunflowers, zinnias, yarrow, snapdragons, and more.

Member: $105; Non-member: $130

Wednesday, August 5, 6:30–8 p.m. | Register here

Learn the basics of floral arranging and create a sweet floral display in a teacup that features the best of summer’s blooms.

Member: $80; Non-member: $96

Ticketing

Members receive early access to Petals & Promenade tickets starting May 6 through May 12. Click here to become a member. 

Member: $150; Non-member: $175
Ticket price includes an assortment of passed hors d’oeuvres, sweet treats, and a signature drink. Click here to view the menu.

Tickets must be reserved in advance. General admission discounts and passes do not apply to this special event. All ticket sales are final.

Registrations are closed.

Kindly note:

  • Guests must be 18 years or older
  • Outside alcohol is not permitted

FAQs 

Petals & Promenade is a special ticketed event that invites you to step into the elegance, fashion, and social traditions of the Regency era. Throughout the night, enjoy live music from a string quartet and guided Regency dance lessons in our Orangerie conservatory, or take a stroll through our formal outdoor gardens. The evening will also feature a wandering harpist, engaging crafts and games, appearances by local drag performers, and the unique opportunity to be formally presented to the Queen as she searches for the Diamond of the Season.

Tickets include passed hors d’oeuvres and desserts, along with one complimentary beverage. Additional drinks will be available for purchase at the bar.

Doors open and the event begins at 6 p.m. If you arrive early, please wait in your vehicle until 6 p.m. This event is free flowing, so you may arrive at any time after that point and may stay as long as you like until the event ends at 10 p.m.

New England Botanic Garden will be closed from 5 to 6 p.m. If you arrive early, please wait in your vehicle until 6 p.m. when doors open and the event begins.

If you are visiting during general admission hours but have tickets to Petals & Promenade that evening, we ask that you please exit the property and return at the time listed on your event ticket.

Select formal gardens will be open to explore during your visit. Our wooded trails will not be accessible during this event. Please note that some garden paths may be more difficult to navigate after dusk.

Each ticket includes an assortment of passed hors d’oeuvres, hand crafted desserts, and one free beverage (signature cocktail or mocktail). Additional drinks will be available for purchase during the event. Outside alcohol is not permitted at the Garden. Click here to view the menu.

Guests are encouraged to come dressed for the occasion in Regency-inspired or formal attire and comfortable shoes for dancing. Looking for inspiration? Join textile artist and historic fashion expert, Liz Ives, for our Regency Fashion & Florals workshop on July 12, 2026! Learn the essential foundations for Regency era style, how florals played a role in the fashion of the time, and instruction for how to thrift, curate, or translate these historical features into a more modern ensemble.

No, the Garden Shop will not be open during this event.

While we love our furry, four-legged friends, pets are not permitted during special after-hours events like Petals & Promenade. Service animals are welcome throughout the property during all open hours.

Petals & Promenade will take place rain or shine. In the case of non-hazardous inclement weather, select outdoor activities will be moved indoors. In the case of hazardous weather, New England Botanic Garden may decide to cancel the event. If the event is cancelled, you will be notified by email as soon as possible on the day of your visit and you will receive a full refund for your reservation.

Tickets for Petals & Promenade are non-refundable and are only valid for the date selected. All sales are final.

After parking your vehicle, proceed up the path into the Visitors Center. Please have your ticket/confirmation email printed or available to show on your phone for our front desk staff to check you in. 

We have a large, well-lit parking lot on site. There is no charge for parking.

Accessible parking is located closest to the building in the first parking lot on the right. You can learn more about accessibility at the Garden here.

If you choose to use Uber, Lyft, or another taxi service, please note that our entry gate on French Drive will close automatically for arriving vehicles at the end of the event. Please plan to be picked up before the event ends at 10 p.m. We recommend scheduling rideshares in advance.