Oconee Bells Celebration at Highlands Biological Station
Schedule
Sat, 21 Mar, 2026 at 10:00 am to Sun, 22 Mar, 2026 at 04:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
265 N 6th St, Highlands, NC, United States, North Carolina 28741 | Highlands, NC
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The rare and celebrated Oconee Bells (Shortia galacifolia) blooms for only a short window each March. Join Highlands Biological Station for a special two-day program honoring this iconic wildflower through natural history, art, and field exploration.New Flexible Format This Year – Attend One or Both Days
Saturday, March 21 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The program begins at Highlands Biological Station with a presentation by Jim Costa exploring the remarkable story of the “lost (and found!) Shortia,” one of the great botanical mysteries of the Southern Appalachians. Following the talk, participants will join Cynthia Woodsong of Woodsong Botanicals for a hands-on paper botanical workshop, creating a lifelike Oconee Bells specimen. All materials will be provided and no prior artistic experience is required.
Sunday, March 22 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Participants will travel to Lake Jocassee for a guided field experience. The day includes a leisurely walk along the Oconee Bells Nature Trail at Devil’s Fork State Park followed by a scenic pontoon boat excursion to observe Oconee Bells in their native habitat. Along the way, participants will enjoy views of waterfalls, early spring flora, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Transportation is provided.
This program is ideal for plant enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone curious about one of the region’s most beloved spring wildflowers.
Space is limited. Register early and select your attendance option: https://wcupg.wcu.edu/C20252_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=1299&SINGLESTORE=true
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Where is it happening?
265 N 6th St, Highlands, NC, United States, North Carolina 28741Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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