School holiday favourite, Botanica, is returning to Melbourne Gardens this summer. Unleash your imagination as you create cubbies and craft creatures from natural materials gathered from the Gardens.

Conceived by artist Darryl Cordell, and inspired by his childhood in the bush, Botanica offers families the opportunity to work together to build a very special world under the old oak trees.

Transform palm fronds into roofs, bamboo into walls and construct flooring from sticks and leaves. Older villagers can learn knots and other techniques to help build their unique cubby creations, while young ones engage in sensory and imaginative play. Fashion new critters from clay, pods and seeds, and enjoy nature-based experiences for all ages.

Drop in for a visit or stay all day.

Please note there is a relaxed session on Tue 16 Jan with reduced capacity between 2pm and 4pm.