Summer sendoff
Descanso Gardens salutes Labor Day in outdoor style
By John Sollenberger 09/02/2010
If you’re looking for some end-of-summer fun to celebrate Labor Day, check out the party at Descanso Gardens on Monday when “Boddy’s Big Backyard,” so named in honor of original property owner E. Manchester Boddy, hosts a picnic from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Boddy was known for his legendary parties in the 1930s and ’40s, and this one promises to be fun for all ages.
At 10 a.m., take a guided walk of the California Natives Garden with Horticulturalist Rachel Young. At 12:30 p.m., kids can gather
in the Under the Oaks Theater for a reading of “Teddy Bears’ Picnic.”
Music takes center stage from 1 to 3 p.m. as the Mobile Homeboys take over. These roots-rockers play a foot-stomping, ear-pleasing mix of country rock. Songs like “American Dirt” are somewhat reminiscent of the Grateful Dead’s country-flavored tunes, while “California Queen” has a gritty, funky feel.
The party starts at 9 a.m. Monday at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. Guests can bring a picnic or purchase barbecue from Patina Catering from 11:30 to 3 p.m. The event is free with Gardens admission of $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and students, $3 for children 5 to 12 and free for kids 4 and under. Call (818) 949-4200 or visit descansogardens.org.
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