Dear CTG Family, We are heartbroken by the recent devastation brought to our LA community and our thoughts are with those who were impacted by this unprecedented natural disaster. Know that we are here for you. For resources and more, please visit lacounty.gov/emergency. One CTG. One LA.

Inspired by The Secret Garden

Spend a magical night in with your besties this Galentine's Day

Get swept away by The Secret Garden this Galentine's Day by honoring the many brave and independent women of this timeless classic.

Celebrate Galentine's Day with the beloved characters of 'The Secret Garden'. Enjoy a magical night in with your besties to honor the many brave and independent women featured in this timeless classic. From the magnificent fictional characters to the real-life women who have brought the story to life on the page or on the stage, the ladies from The Secret Garden offer a wide array of interests, talents, and personalities.

Start the night by getting to know each of these amazing characters. Begin with Mary Lennox, a ten-year-old orphan who is sent to live in her Uncle's huge and mysterious estate. She discovers a neglected garden that she brings back to life with the help of her newfound friends, Dickon and Colin. Through her determination and resilience, she helps heal the broken relationships within her family. 

Continue with Martha Sowerby, a local girl who works as a servant in Misselthwaite Manor. Martha is lively and kind-hearted and plays an important role in Mary's journey. She is always up for some fun and shenanigans! 

And when it comes to the real-life heroines of The Secret Garden, there are so many other things to celebrate and emulate. For instance, did you know that Lucy Simon, who wrote the musical adaptation of The Secret Garden, is Carly Simon’s sister? Simon, alongside Marsha Norman, created a powerful piece of musical theater that is filled with strong female leads. Brought to life by the likes of Sierra Boggess, Julia Lester, and Emily Jewel Hoder, these characters are inspiring and empowering figures for Galentines everywhere!

So, what can you and your favorite ladies do to celebrate this Galentine's Day? Here's a list of incredible ideas inspired by The Secret Garden:

  • Have a picnic in your favorite secret garden spot. Pack up some snacks and drinks to enjoy the beauty of nature and reconnect with your Gal pals.
  • Host a movie night featuring the 1993 film adaptation of The Secret Garden starring Maggie Smith, Kate Maberly, and Heydon Prowse.
  • Get creative with a Galentine's Day craft party! Make Victorian style flower crowns for each of your Gal pals or recreate the magic of The Secret Garden with an art project. 

This Galentine's Day, take some time to celebrate the brave and independent women of The Secret Garden. From the lively Martha Sowerby to the real-life artists behind the scenes, honor each of these inspiring figures and share your Galentine's Day love with all of them! Cheers to a magical Galentine's Day adventure!