Tacoma has a new event for garden enthusiasts. The Point Defiance Flower & Garden Festival grows fun for the first time Saturday and Sunday, June 3-4. This premier gardening event in the South Sound offers something for everyone, from seasoned green thumbs to budding plant enthusiasts.

The festival takes place both outdoors and inside, where visitors can explore the gardens and Pagoda at Point Defiance Park. With hands-on programming, garden tours, food trucks, lectures, live music, a beer and wine tasting garden and more, this event is sure to inspire, educate and entertain.

Not only is the festival a great opportunity to experience gardening in the Pacific Northwest, but it also supports the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory Foundation and Metro Parks gardening programs, with all proceeds going to these worthy causes.

Learn from experts at lectures and demonstrations held at the Rose Garden Stage and inside the Pagoda, or get advice from horticulture professionals at the Vendor Village where you can purchase beautiful annuals, perennials, herbs, and hanging baskets grown by Metro Parks Tacoma's horticulture experts in partnership with students from the Science and Math Institute.

View newly planted flower beds designed by local nurseries and landscapers to get a number of  creative, innovative ideas for your home garden.

The beer and wine tasting garden provides a unique opportunity to sample regional wines and craft beers and learn about the growing process from representatives of local vineyards and breweries. Meanwhile, the Farmers Market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and other edible delights for those looking for a healthy snack.

Guided garden tours of the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Rhododendron Garden, and Northwest Native Garden allow visitors to learn about the unique features, plants, and history of each. Get inspired for your own garden and learn planting techniques and plant-care tips from expert horticulturists.

Live music during happy hour in the Rose Garden adds to the festive atmosphere.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the event. Ticket holders will receive a wristband on the day of the event to gain entry into exclusive Festival experiences.

A basic festival pass ($12) includes entry to exclusive lectures and demonstrations plus access to all areas of the event. Ages 12 and younger are free with these exceptions: Garden tours require a ticket for each participant regardless of age. The Wine & Beer Tasting Garden is ages 21+ only.

Free experiences include the Vendor Village and Tacoma Farmers Market.

POINT DEFIANCE GARDEN FESTIVAL, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 3, Happy hour 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, June 4; Point Defiance Park, 5400 N Pearl St., Tacoma, www.ptdefiancegardenfest.org.