Spring officially arrives on Tuesday. It’s been unseasonably warm in St. Louis the past few weeks though, so many spring blossoms are reaching or passing their peak. I’ve been trying to enjoy as many blooms as I can, since this is my last spring as a St. Louis resident. I kicked things off with this spring’s Art in Bloom event at the Saint Louis Art Museum, which did not disappoint. Flower artisans create a floral arrangement inspired by one of the museum’s pieces of artwork, and it’s always spectacular. This year’s show was particularly vibrant.
I then ventured to the Fabulous Fox Theatre for the latest show of this season’s Broadway series. Stephen Sondheim’s Company was good. It’s the first time I saw it live. I’ve seen recorded performances on PBS and at the movies. I’m glad I finally saw it in person. I even arrived an hour early stroll around the Fox and soak in its grandeur. That never grows old.
I enjoyed an early morning walk around the Missouri Botanical Garden as the magnolia blooms reached their peak. They’re so intricate and delicate. I visited the cherry trees, but their blossoms weren’t yet visible.
The latest incarnation of a Chinese lantern festival to visit St. Louis is the Animals Aglow Lantern Festival currently on display at the Saint Louis Zoo. It’s absolutely spectacular. Previous Chinese lantern festivals visited St. Louis in 2012 and 2015. Both took place at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Both were also spectacular. However, the Zoo’s display is extra special. Its lanterns endlessly change color and gently move. They also engage visitors with interactive features that allow them to respond to actions initiated by visitors. It’s a must see.
I returned to the Botanical Garden to check on the cherry blossoms. By now, most of the magnolia blossoms passed their peak with petals scattered on the ground. The cherry blossoms actually appeared to have just passed their peak as well. They were still holding on for the most part though. However, when a stiff wind blew through the branches, petals fell like snowflakes. It was wonderful. It’s a real privilege to enjoy spring in St. Louis. 😊☘🌸
