Seriously Memphians, if you have never been to a Live at the Garden concert at the Botanical Gardens, you're missing out on the definition of "summer vibes." We are lucky to have such fun summer events and activities in Memphis, but I have to say, Live at the Garden tops them all. I look forward to this series every summer and the line-up this year does not disappoint.
Last night me and my best friend, Ginger, met up with my momma and her best friend, Kat to see Heart. Even better, a couple more of momma's friends joined us, so we had a fun little gals picnic party. A best friends night with momma was perfect for this concert because literally every song reminded me of my childhood! I remember momma jamming out to Heart when I was a kid, and it was no different last night. Well kind of different... We are much older and there was wine involved.. Ha! It was too much fun!
While the music is always grand at Live at the Garden, how they really set the bar is they let you bring a picnic spread as big as you wish! People stroll in with gigantic coolers on wheels, blankets, chairs - the works. I swear to y'all, one year I saw someone fold out a huge picnic table that was about an inch off the ground and pull her entire kitchen out of a cooler - literally, I think she brought everything in her fridge and pantry. But man, it looked like a party I wanted to join! That's what's so neat about Live at the Garden. Everyone has their own little picnic party going on, and it's fun to walk around and see each one. Not to mention, getting to enjoy awesome music, food, and wine on the gorgeous Memphis Botanical Garden grounds. Its a set up of serenity, beauty, and down-right fun!
When you go, I recommend bringing a picnic and wine. Get there about an hour before to enjoy the spread of food and have a little miniature "cocktail hour." It's grand as a date night but even more fun with a huge group of friends or family, so bring your crew!
I also recommend packing up a refreshing cocktail to beat the heat. As the sun goes down, it cools off a lot but my Boozy Lavender Purple Cow float will bring the heat down even more. I'm telling you, this drink is a serious winner! I've always been obsessed with Coke floats of any kind... This one is adulted-up with vanilla vodka, fresh fruit, lavender simple syrup, and Yarnell's Ice Cream... I die!! If Yarnell's ice cream isn't your go-to ice cream brand now, after you try this float, it will be. It's now available in most Krogers and Walmarts in the Memphis area, too, so you can get it any time. Make a batch of these floats and get your tail to the next Live at the Garden! You won't be sorry!