BELMONT, N.C. – On Friday, Sept. 28, 5:30 – 9 p.m., Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden will host Bug Ball, a family-friendly fundraiser that encourages children -- and those who are young at heart -- to come dressed as their favorite bug.

“The Bug Ball is an exciting time for boys and girls of all ages,” said Chairwoman of the Bug Ball Steering Committee Amy Spencer. “In addition, this event benefits children in two very important ways: it provides them with a fun evening and it supports the Garden’s education programs that help children learn more about nature.”

From children wearing wings, to adults in bug-eyed glasses, all attendees will be have the opportunity to participate in insect-inspired activity stations, games and entertainment such as: Bug Splat, teaching children about bugs and letting them “splat” their own bug creation; Bug Catchers, allowing children to personalize their own catching net and learning how to use it; Cricket Hop Races, where participants use bouncy balls to race; and Insect-O-Rama, a bug-themed wheel of fortune. In addition, the Charlotte Youth Ballet will perform throughout the night while being dressed as butterflies.

Carriage rides will be provided for guests’ enjoyment courtesy of Southern Breezes Carriages, weather permitting. Special food and drinks are included with ticket purchase. A unique silent auction will add to the festivities for the night.

The Garden Store will have special bug merchandise available to help guests find just the right accessory (e.g. wings, insect masks, bug head-bands, etc.) for the event.

Advance registration for Bug Ball is required by calling 704-829-1252 or emailing wilson@dsbg.org to request an invitation. Proceeds from the Bug Ball benefit the Garden’s school programs.

Bug Ball has four different ticket levels: Caterpillar (children 3 and under), $10 per person; Beetle, $35 per person; Ladybug (includes a gift box of live ladybugs), $50 per person; and Butterfly (includes a terrarium with two monarch butterfly chrysalides and one complimentary beverage ticket), $75 per person. For more information, log on to www.DSBG.org or call 704-829-1252.

For more information about this and other events at the Garden visit http://www.dsbg.org/events.php

PSNC Energy is the Presenting Sponsor of the Bug Ball and SteelFab is the Activities Sponsor. Special support is being provided by Creative Solutions, Best Impressions Caterers, Loftin & Co., Lead Source Marketing and Mercure Design.

###

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, the Carolinas’ Garden for All Seasons, provides guests a chance to reconnect with nature. Located within 380 acres on the banks of Lake Wylie, spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a visitor pavilion, gift shop and nature walk await the visitor. HGTV named it one of the nation’s “20 Great Gardens” and USA TODAY says the Garden is one of the nation’s best places to “welcome fall with a flourish.” Committed to the best in southern horticultural, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a must-see for all ages.