Roots & Resonance
A Celebration of Place
Join us September 12–13, 2025, for a special fundraising weekend in support of the Highlands Botanical Gardens at Highlands Biological Station and the Highlands Performing Arts Center (PAC).
Celebrate the spirit of place as we kick off the weekend with a lively concert by Tanasi featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter Anya Hinkle and her band. With roots in Appalachian traditions and a sound that blends folk, bluegrass, and Americana, Anya’s music is sure to set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Continue the festivities on Saturday with guided explorations of the Botanical Gardens, engaging hands-on activities, and a native plant sale at the Nature Center. The weekend will also feature an inspiring presentation honoring the legacy of legendary photographer George Masa—a tribute to the landscapes that continue to connect and inspire us. As a token of appreciation, all Saturday participants will receive a special gift: a potted Shortia from our Garden—a living symbol of botanical goodwill.
Whether you’re joining us for a single event or the full weekend, we invite you to explore, connect, and celebrate the beauty that surrounds us—all while supporting the future of the Highlands Botanical Gardens and the exciting development of our South Gateway garden.
Schedule of Events
September 12–13, 2025
Friday, September 12 | Highlands Performing Arts Center (PAC)
Location: Performing Arts Center – Martin Lipscomb Theater
Evening Concert (Time TBD)
Tanasi featuring Anya Hinkle and her band
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Celebrate the weekend with an evening of live Appalachian and Americana music!
Saturday, September 13 | Highlands Biological Station Gardens & Amphitheater
Celebrate the gardens and local heritage with special programming at the Station.
2:00 – 4:30 PM
Garden Explorations & Native Plant Sale
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Enjoy guided thematic walks, botanical demonstrations, and hands-on garden activities.
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Native plant sale open at the Nature Center — browse and buy unique items throughout the afternoon.
5:00 – 6:30 PM
Main Event: A Celebration of Place
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Janet McCue & Paul Bonesteel speaking on their book George Masa: A Life Reimagined
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Featuring a Q&A session
Talk held at the Amphitheater; rain location inside the Nature Center.
6:30 – 8:00 PM
Reception & Book Signing
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Meet the speakers at a reception hosted behind the Nature Center.
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Book signing with authors — sales and signing tables set up on the patio.
Cost to Register
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Friday Only (Tanasi concert featuring Anya Hinkle): $75
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Saturday Only (Masa talk, garden activities, reception, & native plant sale): $20
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Full Weekend Access (both Friday and Saturday events): $90
With Gratitude to Our Gardens & Grounds Committee
We extend our sincere thanks to the Gardens and Grounds Committee for their vision, creativity, and thoughtful planning in organizing this year’s Botanical Gardens Benefit. Your dedication to the mission of the Highlands Biological Station—and the care you invest in the gardens we all cherish—is deeply appreciated.
Special thanks to Bryding Adams, Lynda Anderson, Dr. Jim Costa, Ken Conover, Tara Henderson, Jason Love, Dr. Paul Manos, Jeremy Schewe, Liz Sargent and Kathy Mathews for the many ways you helped shape this event—from curating meaningful programming to ensuring our garden spaces continue to inspire, educate, and thrive.
We are truly grateful for your continued stewardship and support.
Event artwork was created by Sarah Vickery.