Helmi’s Gardens in Columbia is known for its eclectic offerings—from its rare houseplants and unique planters to the menagerie of animals that call the place home. So it should be no surprise that its Fall Festival will be just a little bit different.

The landscaping at Helmi’s Gardens invites visitors to slow their stroll and take in the botanical beauty.

Live music, arts demonstrations, food trucks, a peacock, children’s activities, vintage treasures, and mums as far as the eye can see. What else could one want on an autumnal Saturday? Helmi’s Gardens, a greenhouse, nursery, and landscaping company in Columbia, will host its Fall Festival on September 28. The event offers all of this and more.

Store Manager Gabby Borthacyre says one of the highlights of this year’s events is the arts demonstrations featuring local artists.

“One of them is a stone sculptor,” Borthacyre says. “His name is Joel Terrell. He makes beautiful sculptures out of boulders, and he does it all by hand.” 

Should you find yourself feeling a mite peckish, food trucks including The Melt Masters, a group of four college friends who serve up variations on the classic grilled cheese and house-made potato chips; The Glizzness, a purveyor of fanciful hotdogs, pulled-pork sandwiches, and, for the vegetarians, seasoned jackfruit sandwiches; and Lotsa Pop, an ice cream truck.

Halloween-themed planters are displayed at Helmi’s Gardens.

For those seeking a unique souvenir, Borthacyre will be leading a terrarium class. 

“You pay a fee, but everything is included so you leave with a built terrarium,” Borthacyre says. “You get the jar, you get the materials to make it, and you get to pick your plants. We guide you through the process of making and building the terrarium plus how to care for it at home.”

Spots are limited, so Borthacyre recommends registering in advance. 

Helmi’s carries chrysanthemums in a rainbow of colors.

Festival attendees also can peruse Helmi’s selection of fall plants such as chrysanthemums, pansies, and asters, as well as a curated assortment of fall crops.

“We’ll have a ton of pumpkins,” Borthacyre says. “We try to get the coolest, more unique varieties of pumpkins.” 

Regulars at Helmi’s are well-acquainted with animals that live there: a pair of friendly cats named Minx and Fatness; a chatter of budgies in a beautifully appointed vintage cage; a flock of exotic chickens; and a show-stopper of a peacock. 

“The cats will be very present,” Borthacyre says.

Live music and children’s activities like face painting will round out the fun.

“It’s free to come out,” Borthacyre says. “Walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.” 

All photos courtesy of Caroline Dohack

For hundreds more events, visit Missouri Life’s Event Calendar.