Friends of the Arboretum gathered in the gardens Friday Sept. 5, for the 3rd Annual Fuchsia Festival.

“We have the Hellebore Tea in the spring and wanted another fundraiser that brings attention to other garden collections,” said Noel Paterson, President of the Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation. “Everyone has such a nice time at this Festival that we decided to make it an annual event.”

Arboretum volunteers set up informal conversation areas among the fuchsias. Invited guests bought a seat and received food and refreshments. This year, Ristrettos Coffee & Wine in Maple Valley catered the event, which included charcuterie, sandwiches, deserts, wine and other beverages.

Guests also had an opportunity to stroll through the Arboretum and enjoy the late summer lushness of all the gardens and plant collections.

“The Fuchsia Festival is a way to celebrate the stunning fuchsias, our beautiful gardens and raise funds,” Noel said. “In the future, we hope more community members will attend this lovely event.”

Visit LakeWildernessArboretum.org, email info@lakewildernessarboretum.org or call 253-293-5103 to volunteer, donate or become a member.