Join us for Stories in the Garden, which takes place weekly on Saturdays at 11 am led by community gardener, musician, and artist Nia Watson, along with guest storytellers on select dates. This series focuses on food sovereignty, community, and the arts.
Over the course of Stories in the Garden programming, the MLK Garden in South Bethlehem will itself become a sort of “playhouse” for creativity inspired by Nellie’s playhouse in LUAG’s fall exhibition, Really Free: The Radical Art of Nellie Mae Rowe. This work will capture community stories through hands-on exploration, in which community members will assist with working in the garden as well as weave stories, images, and ideas into the garden beds.
Register in advance to receive updates and more information!
If you require assistance to fill out this form or prefer to share your registration information via email or phone, please email ejs421@lehigh.edu or call 610-758-6882. Questions, concerns, and any accessibility needs can also be directed to Elise at ejs421@lehigh.edu or call 610-758-6882.
Family Storytimes:
Saturdays, July 13-October 26, Drop-in 11 am-12 pm on select dates and 4-5 pm August 24 and September 28.
Each program includes a book reading related to our themes, engaging learning sessions about garden plants, and a hands-on activity that ties everything together.
Visiting Storyteller Sessions:
- September 14, 11 am - Katarah Jordan
- October 5, 11 am - Veronica Moore
- October 12, 11 am - Tatiana Moreno
Whether you're passionate about gardening, storytelling, or community building, Stories in the Garden offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to explore the intersection of nature, art, and community in a beautiful garden setting.
This program was made possible in part by Southside Tomorrow, a 6-year revitalization program of Community Action Development Bethlehem and the City of Bethlehem, with support from Univest Bank & Trust Co., Embassy Bank for the Lehigh Valley, People’s Security Bank and Trust, PPL Electric Utilities, and Provident Bank.
Nia Watson, Song Poet & Educator
Nia has evolved into her art form over the last six years. Taking journal entries and transforming them into song poems inspired by life experiences. Influenced by nature, specifically birds, their flying patterns and songs. She creates other visuals as well when inspired. Nia is also a yoga instructor offering diverse classes to the valley for the past decade. She has taught early childhood since 2009. Currently, Nia is in the midst of learning to be a birth worker to support birthing beings themselves and those who are growing within them from conceiving to postpartum. Her classes and community offerings weave all the parts of herself together. Offering movement with a touch of playfulness and songs to soothe everyone present. Nia has performed here in the Valley, Philadelphia Amsterdam and Rio de Janeiro. She hopes to keep learning and growing and sharing the lessons she learns along the way.
Katarah Jordan is a lifelong learner and educator who believes that every child deserves to be successful and thrive from cradle to career. Katarah lives by the motto “What’s Healthy Grows.” She believes that if individuals and communities foster inclusivity, social cohesion, and sustainable development, we can all experience well-being and healthy growth. Katarah is the author of It’s Harvest Time and CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Allentown.
Veronica Moore is a celebrated educator, trainer, facilitator, children's book author and entreprenuer. Her books are based in social and emotional learning principles and can be used as a tool both inside and outside of learning spaces.
“Rosie's Special Gift”, follows the story of Rosie, a curious young girl, and her nurturing mother on a captivating journey through the world of plants.
Through delightful storytelling and enchanting illustrations, “Rosie's Special Gift” showcases the unique bond between a mother and daughter as they explore the wonders of gardening and taking care of plants together. As they tend to their growing green things, Rosie and her mom uncover lessons about kindness, generosity, and the importance of community. This heartwarming tale not only celebrates the joy of nurturing plants and growing food, but it also shows the timeless love shared between mothers and daughters. “Rosie's Special Gift” is a tender and inspiring read that will leave young readers and caregivers with a lasting appreciation for the magic and power of nature. For more on Rosie’s adventures visit: www.veronicahmoore.com
Tatiana Moreno is the owner of Valley Prep - Meal Prep/ Located in Allentown, Valley Prep provides finely prepared meals delivered to your door 3 times a week to ensure freshness. An ideal service for busy, on the go people.
Martin Luther King Jr. Community Garden & Park - 433 Carlton Avenue, Bethlehem
