As the gray of winter lifts, the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is blossoming into its 117th season, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore its vibrant display of flora and fauna. Opening its gates on Tuesday, April 16, at 7:30 am, the sanctuary offers a serene escape within the city's bustling life. For those green-thumbed New Yorkers looking for inspiration, or simply a breath of fresh air, this seasonal delight has finally returned.

The sanctuary, herald as an oasis for native plant species, operates Tuesday through Sunday, from 7:30 am to 6 pm, and will remain open until October 15. Thursdays are a special treat as the garden extends its hours until 8 pm through September 1, offering a longer respite among the blooms and birds. However, take note that the sanctuary takes a day off on Mondays, giving the natural inhabitants a day free of human hustle.

Flexing an array of programming for all ages, the garden has lined up a full slate of activities that scroll through summer. According to a bulletin released by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the offerings include a garden tour available every open day from 11-11:45 am, and a special "Flower Hour" every Thursday evening from May 2 - June 27, between 5-6 pm.

For the bird watchers, the sanctuary has curated a series of early morning and evening bird strolls beginning on April 20. Birders will take flight on Saturdays from 7:30-9 am and can enjoy a peaceful evening bird stroll on Thursdays in May and June from 6:30-7:30 pm. Wirth Park also hops in with spring birding on select Thursdays in May, from 7:30-9 am.

Additional programs aim to merge nature with leisurely pursuits. These include Garden Storytime for families returning on Thursdays, May 2 - October 12 from 10-10:30 am, and Saturdays from 3-3:30 am. Creative spirits can indulge in "Knitting in Nature" on select Thursdays from May through August and partake in "Spring Nature Journaling" on Sundays in May. Remarkably jot your observations or simply enjoy a "Quaking Bog Walk" on the first Saturdays and third Sundays starting in June.

The full details of these blooming activities can be found on the sanctuary's official website, promising a season ripe with natural splendor right through the heart of the city's humdrum. Whether you're a dedicated botanist or a casual stroller, there’s a leafy nook with your name on it at Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary, ready to be discovered.