Though the weather may be cooling off, the fun-filled events at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden are showing no sign of slowing down. This fall, the garden is hosting a concert series that melds the magic of music with the gorgeous environment of the gardens. Sept. 26, brings a traditional jazz combo with the “Dave Brubeck Tribute.” Oct. 3, a brass quintet will perform show tunes in the concert “Pops in the Garden.” The final concert of the series is “Swing for the Stars” a jazz, swing, and big band music combination on Oct. 10.

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a non-profit organization driven by a vision for excellence in both their gardens and their programs. They strive to provide a beautiful and engaging place for the community to come learn, enjoy, and grow. The Fall Concert Series is just one way that they achieve this. “By hosting the concert series we are opening doors to our community members, as the Garden and music both have the power to transform lives, as well as to inspire and entertain,” Meg Suraci, the Garden’s Director of Marketing said.

This concert series is also unique in that it combines two cultural institutions from the community: The Cape Fear Botanical Gardens and the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. “The Fall Concert Series in the Garden featuring select musicians of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra encores for a 3rd annual season, offering four nights of outdoor ‘mini’ concerts. The natural beauty of Cape Fear Botanical Garden boasts unrivaled ambience and the Symphony is praised for its artistic excellence. Blending these two experiences is a collaborative effort and both organizations are committed to the cooperative success of this series,” Suraci said.

In addition to the great atmosphere and music, there will also be delicious refreshments available at each concert, heightening the overall excellence of the event. “Pierro’s Catering will be on-site with tempting food and beverage selections available for purchase and guests will have the opportunity to dine outdoors surrounded by beautiful views. A cash bar will be open for wine and beer,” Suraci says.

The intimacy with nature provided by the Cape Fear Botanical gardens for these concerts is unique and creates for an engaging and magical experience for a myriad of senses. That being said, seating will not be provided. Suraci explained that, “Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket – or both depending on the forecast, as we head into fall with shorter evening hours and cool temperatures. The Garden will have chairs available for rent, also.”

The concerts are a rain or shine event. In case of inclement weather, they will be moved to the beautiful 6,685 square foot Orangery. No outside food, beverages, coolers, smoking, or pets are allowed in the garden. Admission is free for members. For non-members tickets are $10, $9 with military I.D., $5 for children from 6-12, and children under 5 are free. For more information call 486-0221 or visit www.capefearbg.org. The garden is located at 536 N Eastern Blvd. For all of the concerts the gates open at 6p.m. and performances begin at 7 p.m.

Photo: CFBG pays tribute to Dave Brubek on Sept. 26.