COLUMBIA – Garner inspiration and discover tricks of the trade to motivate you for a successful gardening season at Riverbanks Botanical Garden’s Springtime at the Garden Festival on Saturday, March 27.

Opportunities abound for both the novice gardener and veteran green thumb. How-to sessions and interactive demonstrations will provide insight on all things botanical. From the tools to get you started and container gardening to growing and cooking with herbs, Springtime at the Garden has something for everyone.

With more than 30 vendors on site, you can take home everything you need to make your yard the envy of the neighborhood. Retailers will offer plants, tools, garden art and even some culinary delights.

“The Botanical Garden is not only a magnificent attraction but also a resource for those interested in gardening in the Southeast,” said Melodie Scott-Leach, director of habitat horticulture at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “Hosting this festival gives us the ability to share our knowledge with thousands of people—and hopefully excite a few new folks about the wonderful world of plants.”

Guests can consult the experts on how to keep their backyards in bloom, manage those pesky fire ants and even tackle tougher questions with the Master Gardeners from Clemson Extension.

In addition to the garden related activities, there will be live music by Elliot and the Untouchables in the amphitheater and justfor kids arts and craft stations.

The Springtime at the Garden Festival will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the event is free with paid admission to Riverbanks.

Riverbanks is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission is $9.75 for adults, $7.25 for children ages 3-12, and free for children 2 and under. Group rates and other discounts may apply.

For more information, call 803.779.8717 or visit www.riverbanks.org.