FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 1, 2026


Contact: Alison Clary

Marketing Specialist

aclary@starkfoundation.org

(o) 409.886.2993 (c) 409.988.5407


Experience an Evening of Scarecrows, Live Music and Fall Fun During Sip and Stroll at Shangri La Gardens

(ORANGE, TX) Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center invites the community to enjoy a fall evening in the Gardens during Sip and Stroll on Thursday, October 15 from 5-8 p.m. This free fall event will feature live music from Pendulum Hearts, wine and refreshments from Free State Cellars Winery and a special opportunity to experience Scarecrow Festival after hours.


Guests can stroll through the Gardens during golden hour, take in seasonal fall views and explore the Scarecrow Trail featuring creative displays throughout the Gardens. Live music, refreshments and the relaxed outdoor setting offer an opportunity to unwind and enjoy an evening in nature.


“Sip and Stroll offers a special opportunity to experience Scarecrow Festival and the Gardens after hours,” said Angie Mason, executive director of Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center. “Guests can stroll through the scarecrow exhibits, enjoy live music and take in the beauty of the Gardens on a fall evening. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, spend time together and enjoy the season.”


Pendulum Hearts will perform live music throughout the evening. The nationally touring alt-country swing act draws from the Texas Swing tradition while incorporating original songs and musical experimentation into its sound.


Free State Cellars Winery will offer a specially curated picnic box and wine available for pre-order. Wine by the glass and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase onsite. Visitors are welcome to bring a blanket to enjoy their beverages and picnics throughout the Gardens, and a limited number of tables and chairs will be available onsite. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.


Sip and Stroll takes place during the 16th Annual Scarecrow Festival, open to the public October 6-24 during regular Garden hours. The annual fall tradition invites visitors to explore fall flowering displays, thousands of pumpkins and more than 50 one-of-a-kind scarecrow exhibits created by community members using recycled and repurposed materials. Scarecrows are always innovative, inspiring and kind to their world. Visitors may also vote for their favorite scarecrow exhibit throughout the festival, with the winners announced at Autumn Fair on October 24.


To provide a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all guests, tickets are required for entry. Complimentary tickets can be reserved online in advance. Last entry to the Gardens is at 7:30 p.m., and the Scarecrow Trail closes at 7:15 p.m. Sip and Stroll will be held rain or shine.


Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is located at 2111 West Park Avenue in Orange, Texas. For more information about Sip and Stroll, to reserve complimentary tickets or to pre-order from Free State Cellars Winery, visit shangrilagardens.org/sip-and-stroll.



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About Shangri La Botanical Gardens:

Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a 250 plus acre outdoor oasis in Orange, Texas, located along the waterways of Adams Bayou that combines botanical gardens and an education nature center in a unique way. Visitors are encouraged to stroll along garden paths surrounded by fragrant flowers, bird watch and take in the beauty of the grounds. On select dates, visitors can take a naturalist-led excursion along Adams Bayou to see the wonders of nature, learn about the environment and its care, discover animals in their natural habitats and spend time with friends and family. Visitors can expect to gain a new sense of environmental stewardship in one of Texas’ most environmentally friendly gardens.

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