Chihuly exhibition anchors Gardens’ 2026 event calendar

Art

Jan 6

Written By Staff

Photo courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announces its 2026 calendar of events, featuring the long-awaited return of internationally acclaimed glass artist Dale Chihuly alongside popular seasonal exhibitions and programs.

“We are energized by the year ahead and the many opportunities it brings to connect our community with world-class art and extraordinary gardens,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Our 2026 calendar reflects the heart of our mission, bringing people together through art, culture, and nature in ways that spark curiosity and delight. One of the year’s most anticipated highlights is the return of Dale Chihuly, with a major exhibition both indoors and throughout our outdoor spaces. We look forward to welcoming guests as they explore, learn, and find inspiration in every visit.”

Anchored by CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank (May 2–Nov. 1), the 2026 schedule features the celebrated artist’s third and most extensive exhibition at Meijer Gardens to date and one of only two Chihuly exhibitions in the world in 2026. Known for his pioneering work in the studio glass movement, Chihuly’s installations will transform indoor galleries and outdoor gardens alike with dramatic displays of color, form and light. The exhibition will include large-scale works from throughout his career, including new installations developed in response to the natural and architectural features of the Meijer Gardens campus. Returning more than a decade after his first blockbuster presentation here, Chihuly’s 2026 exhibition complements his three installations in the permanent collection and invites guests to see both his work and the gardens in a new light.

Jaume Plensa: A New Humanism remains on view through March 15 before traveling to the Denver Art Museum, exploring the internationally renowned artist’s themes of identity, connection and collective humanity. Plensa’s first career retrospective in the United States, this extensive exhibition offers new insights into Plensa’s poetic vision and the resonance of his sculpture Utopia, permanently installed in the Garden Pavilion.

Major 2026 Exhibitions and Signature Experiences

Jaume Plensa: A New Humanism: Through March 15
Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming: March 1–April 30
CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens Presented by Macatawa Bank: May 2–Nov. 1
Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens: Various dates; lineup announced in April
ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens Presented by PNC Bank: Nov. 23, 2026–Jan. 2, 2027
University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions: Nov. 25, 2026–Jan. 3, 2027

Year-Round Programs and Seasonal Highlights

Plant Show Series: January–October
Winter Nights at Meijer Gardens: Tuesdays, Jan. 20–Feb. 24, 5–9 p.m.
Jazz Brunches: Jan. 17, Feb. 1 and 7, 11 a.m.
Spring Nights at Meijer Gardens: Tuesdays, April 21 and 28, 5–9 p.m.
Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club: Tuesdays, June 16–Aug. 25, 7–9 p.m.
Sunday Strings: Select Sundays in July and August
MUMS at Meijer Gardens: Oct. 1–31
Autumn Nights at Meijer Gardens: Tuesdays in October, 5–9 p.m. m

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