Three people, including an older woman in a wheel chair, stop by a pond at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. (Courtesy photo)
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden notes the overall health benefits of being in nature. (Courtesy photo)

For the 11th consecutive year, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden invites people age 60 and older to enjoy six Free Senior Days in 2025.

Sponsored by Welch-Rice-Haider Funeral Chapels, the community program features complimentary admission to the garden, with a free docent-led tour at 11 a.m. on each of the designated days.

This year’s Free Senior Days will be on the following dates:
• Wednesday, Feb. 19
• Wednesday, April 23
• Wednesday, June 25
• Monday, Aug. 18
• Wednesday, Oct. 8
• Wednesday, Dec. 10

Garden hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Advance reservations are required and can be made at SBBotanicGarden.org/visit.

“Being in nature, at any age, is proven to enhance our total well-being,” said Melissa Patrino, director of development.

“From reducing stress and improving sleep to promoting heart health, a visit to the garden can be a restorative experience for many in our community,” she said. “That’s why we’re so excited Welch-Ryce-Haider is partnering with us to continue this cherished tradition.”

“Supporting Free Senior Days aligns with our mission to honor life and serve the Santa Barbara community,” said Stephen Gibson, managing partner of Welch-Ryce-Haider. “We’re proud to continue our sponsorship and look forward to seeing familiar faces as well as welcoming new visitors to the garden in 2025.”

Click here or call 805-682-4726, ext. 138 if you to have questions about the Free Senior Days. For more about the Botanic Garden, visit www.SBBotanicGarden.org