Midsummer Garden: June After Hours at the Peel Museum

2026 After Hours Series

During our 2026 After Hours: A Victorian Journey to America’s 250th Anniversary series, guests are invited to explore the Peel Museum and Botanical Garden at their own pace on the second Thursday of each month from 5:00–7:00 PM. Tour guides will be stationed throughout the museum to share stories, answer questions, and highlight connections between Victorian life and America’s approaching 250th anniversary. Visitors may also stop by the hands-on craft table to create a free seasonal project inspired by 19th-century traditions. Families are encouraged to complete the themed scavenger hunt during their visit. Once finished, participants can present it at the Museum Store to receive 15% off one item as a thank-you for exploring with us. Each month features a new historical theme, an engaging craft, and an opportunity to connect past and present in a relaxed and welcoming evening setting.

July 9: Midsummer Garden

During summer “Pleasure Garden” gatherings, handheld fans were both practical and expressive. In the late 19th century, fans were sometimes associated with a playful system of silent signals known as the “Language of the Fan.” 
At Victorian garden parties, fans did more than cool the summer air; they added elegance and intrigue. Guests will create a decorative garden fan and discover the whimsical “Language of the Fan,” a popular 1890s parlor amusement that added mystery to summer socials. 

FREE | No registration required

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Small Space Gardening 101

While After Hours admission is free, this class requires separate registration.

Discover how to grow more than you think—no backyard required. Small Space Gardening 101 at Peel Museum & Botanical Garden is an introductory class designed for beginners, apartment dwellers, and anyone working with patios, balconies, or compact yards.

Participants will learn the basics of container gardening, soil selection, sunlight, and plant choices that thrive in limited spaces. Whether you’re interested in growing herbs, flowers, or a few favorite vegetables, this class offers practical tips and simple strategies to help you garden confidently and successfully in any small space!