Ligonier Monarchs Milkweed and More

In collaboration with Penguin Court and Brandywine Conservancy, the event will run from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2022. This family event is designed to enrich and educate children and adults on various pollinators and native flora.  A donation of $10 per family is suggested, and the proceeds will be used to help support the gardens.

Nancy Thorne, a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist from Greensburg, will give a presentation on all thing’s bees. And, what’s good for bees, is good for butterflies! Penguin Court will tag the Monarchs, so we can monitor their progress and share information on the various stages. Penn State Master Gardeners will help guests create life cycle necklaces and have a Monarch Migration Game for our little guests. Podermill and the Climate in Rural Systems Partnership (CRSP) will also join us to share information and activities about climate change.

In addition, plein air artists from the Plein Air Painters of the Laurel Highlands group including, Doreen Currie, Pat Dickun, Becky Mormak, Mike Keim, Ann Cehula, and others will be creating beautiful artwork of our gardens that will be available for purchase. And, become an artist yourself by joining us in creating a special monarch butterfly mural. When completed, it will be donated to a local care facility.

Of particular significance, SAMA is pleased to be the location for the awards ceremony of the Penguin Court, Pennsylvania Pollinator Photo Challenge. The finalists will be on display in the Museum, and awards will be given throughout the afternoon. Please visit their website for more information on this contest managed by Penguin Court. Join us for a wonderful day of family, fun, and butterfly adventure!