Tuesday, May 20, from 5 to 7 p.m. marks the first 2008 Twilight Tuesday event at The North Carolina Arboretum in a series that continues through October. Several free activities are available amidst the Arboretum’s beautiful mountain landscape and blooming gardens.

The season opens with lively klezmer and swing music performed by Lew Gelfond and Hank Bones in the lobby of the Baker Exhibit Center. Light refreshments will be available for purchase.

Twilight Tuesday visitors will also enjoy the Arboretum’s newest exhibit, “Kaleidoscope,” featuring contemporary outdoor sculpture as well as a self-guided walk of the permanent art collection. The Baker Exhibit Center and Connections Gallery will stay open until 7 p.m. for the occasion. The Bonsai Exhibition Garden will be open until 7 p.m. as well, and a docent will be available to answer questions about this horticultural art form.

The next date for this popular event is June 17, when the Arboretum hosts Biltmore Brass, a five-piece brass ensemble. Future dates for Twilight Tuesdays are July 15, August 19, September 30 and October 21. Different musical performers will be featured each date.

North Carolina Arboretum events and activities are free unless noted; no parking fee on Tuesdays.

For more information about Twilight Tuesdays, call the Arboretum at 828-665-2492 or visit www.ncaboretum.org.