Applewood to open 2026 season with May Day celebration

FLINT, Mich. — Applewood Estate will open for the 2026 season on Friday, May 1, inviting the community to explore its gardens, historic home and grounds.

Opening Day will feature a May Day celebration, including a traditional maypole dance, along with opportunities for visitors to stroll the estate and enjoy seasonal offerings.

Guided tours of the home will be available from 1 to 4 p.m. and will include special exhibits marking the 125th anniversary of Ruth Mott’s birth. The exhibits highlight her early life, philanthropy and vision for transforming Applewood into a community-centered space.

Guests can also sample a “Taste of Applewood,” featuring food made with ingredients grown on the estate.

In addition to Opening Day, Applewood will host a range of recurring and special programs. The monthly Civic Matters series highlights ways residents can engage in their communities. The May 15 session will feature a hands-on “Dream Play Build” placemaking activity for all ages in partnership with the Crim Fitness Foundation, with drop-in participation available from 1 to 4 p.m.

Other regularly scheduled programs include the What’s in Bloom Garden Tour, Mindfulness Walk and Storytime, offering visitors multiple ways to experience the estate throughout the season.

Located at 1400 E. Kearsley St., Applewood will be open for the season from May through Oct. 31. Regular hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Admission, events and activities are free and open to the public throughout the season. To learn more, visit applewood.org.