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“It’s time to start your week off right!” J.D Flanagan yells out to the crowd throughout the Des Moines Botanical Center located here in Des Moines. It’s time for one of the Botanical Center’s most popular events, Botanical Blues. Botanical Blues takes place from 2-4 p.m. every Sunday from January through March. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and military, and children get in for $7.

The first thing people feel upon entering the Botanical Center is a warmth that is rare during this time of year. The temperature inside reaches almost 70 degrees — and higher if it’s sunny outside — with 34% humidity.

“It’s a great way to escape the winter blues and the winter cold,” Brenda Graves, a volunteer at the gardens said.

But although the warmth is nice, most people are here for the music. The Botanical Center reaches out to some of the best blues artists in the Midwest to perform.

You can come in, look at the plants and enjoy the blues music around you,” Graves said.

People, many with smiles on their faces, dance throughout the maze of plants. As they do, their ears are filled with the sound of a powerful yet gentle harmonica along with a smooth guitar. The music isn’t too loud, which allows guests to sit back and relax while having conversations. There is a dedicated section for people who want to see the performers, but seats fill up quickly.

Crowds can be a bit overwhelming at times, but even so, “Botanical Blues” is a very relaxing experience. 

“I miss the nice weather, and this place gives me the perfect opportunity to soak up the good weather without having to get on a plane, says Mary Conrath, a member at the Botanical Center. “It’s a nice way to unwind before the busy week begins.”

In addition to the music, visitors can grab a bit to eat at the Trellis Café, which is located just inside to the left of the entrance. Trellis Café has a plant-based menu that changes monthly, which is perfect if you attend Botanical Blues every month. Visitors can try a range of dishes and purchase beverages. Beverages, including alcohol, can be carried around the gardens.

Botanical Blues is also kid-friendly

“They have a scavenger hunt for the kids, so we’ve been walking around looking for all of these special flowers and plants as a family,” said Susan Garley, a first-time attendee.

“They have a scavenger hunt for the kids, so we’ve been walking around looking for all of these special flowers and plants as a family,” said Susan Garley, a first-time attendee.

Another favorite of the children was the waterfall. There was never a time within the two hours that the waterfall wasn’t fully surrounded by kids amazed at what was in front of them.

From start to finish, Botanical Blues is a great experience. From the warm temperature that makes you feel like you aren’t in the freezing Midwest to the amazing music that follows you through the pretty plants, you’ll enjoy every minute of it.