The Bellevue Botanical Garden will celebrate its 20th anniversary June 23.

From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Garden, 12001 Main St., visitors will be treated to free activities that include: guided garden tours, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, poetry readings, flower arranging demonstrations and refreshments. Garden docents at the historic Sharp Cabin will host children’s activities.

Visitors can also stroll the multiple display gardens and trails, and “walk on the wild side” at the new Ravine Experience suspension bridge.

The event celebrates generous partners and volunteers who provide more than 20,000 hours of service each year to the garden. It also celebrates the Garden’s roots which were established in 1981, when Cal and Harriet Shorts deeded their home and seven acres to the city to become a public park.

In 1989, the City Council set aside an additional 36 acres for the Garden, which officially opened in 1992. Now 53 acres, the Botanical Garden features 13 display gardens and trails and is the site of Bellevue’s annual Garden d’Lights holiday season event. It draws an estimated 300,000 visitors each year.

The 20th anniversary celebration will also feature the debut of “Remnants” by David Kelly-Hedrick – a temporary art and poetry project created specifically for and in the Botanical Garden, funded by 4Culture. A free poetry booklet will be provided to garden visitors while supplies last.

Representatives from the city, Bellevue Botanical Garden Society, Northwest Perennial Alliance and other garden partners will be on hand to answer questions. For a complete schedule of activities, visit www.bellevuewa.gov/cobcalendar/default.aspx.

For more information, email lscott@bellevuewa.gov or call 425-452-2750.