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Something Wicked this way blooms! The New York Botanical Garden is getting a Broadway-sized glow-up this weekend with the debut of its Wicked Broadway Garden, a riot of pink and green flora inspired by the long-running musical phenomenon. The limited-time installation opens Saturday, October 11, and runs through November 2—but opening day promises a full-on Ozian party from 11am to 2pm.
To mark the occasion, NYBG is teaming up with the hit show for a “Wicked Celebration” featuring live performances, giveaways, and plenty of photo ops that even Glinda would approve of. Visitors can catch duets from Wicked alums Natalia Vivino (Elphaba, 2009 national tour) and Hayley Podschun (Glinda, 2013 national tour) at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm and 1:30pm on the Conservatory Plaza. Between sets, guests can test their Oz knowledge in Wicked-themed trivia rounds and snag prizes worthy of a Broadway superfan.
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The garden itself is a scene-stealer: a whimsical display of plants in vivid pink and green hues, planted to evoke the unlikely friendship between Oz’s most famous witches. It’s anchored by a 10-foot “Wicked” wall featuring the show’s signature silhouettes—perfect for selfies that say “Defying Gravity,” but make it botanical.
Families can stop by the Home Gardening Center for face painting from 11am to 2pm, where designs include Glinda’s sparkling tiara and Elphaba’s iconic emerald glow. And if you’re among the first 300 guests, you’ll leave with a free pink carnation—a little nod to Broadway’s good witch herself.
The Wicked Broadway Garden is open daily from 10am to 6pm at the Home Gardening Center, 2900 Southern Boulevard in the Bronx. Admission is included with standard garden entry, no broomstick required.