Don’t miss Hospice of the Rapidan’s seventh annual Butterfly Celebration which will be held on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10th) at 1:30 pm in the gardens at the Locust Grove campus of Germanna Community College. A life-affirming expression of hope and peace, the event’s highlight is the release and flight of over two hundred Monarch butterflies accompanied by harp and flute music.  Area residents sponsor butterflies in memory of loved ones who have died and in honor of people who have made a difference in their lives. The Butterfly Celebration supports Hospice of the Rapidan’s grief care program, which includes free, community based care to assist people with their grieving and healing, regardless of hospice affiliation.

For many years the event was held at James Madison’s Montpelier, but this new venue means that food vendors can serve refreshments. Plus, there will be a free BBQ Mothers Day luncheon for up to 200 people, courtesy of John Bossong of Culpeper.  Don’t miss the raffle featuring a number of handmade quilts. The Butterfly Celebration is open to the public and admission is free. Anyone is welcome to sponsor butterflies at $25 each which includes recognition of the person being honored or remembered in the event program.