Magical Moment Scheduled For Munsinger Gardens in August

I’ve always had a fascination with butterflies. The idea that something can start life as a crawling caterpillar, disappear into a cocoon, and then emerge as a beautiful, winged creature. It’s nothing short of magical. To me, it’s one of nature’s greatest symbols of hope, rebirth, and renewal.

That’s why the annual Butterfly Release at Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud is so special. Hosted by Quiet Oaks Hospice House, this event will be held on Sunday, August 3rd at 1:30 p.m., and it could be one of the most meaningful gatherings you’ll ever attend.

THE BUTTERFLY RELEASE IS HAPPENING SOON

“The butterfly release invites us to come together as a community, as neighbors and friends, to remember and celebrate the wonderful joy and treasure of our loved ones’ legacies and lives,” said Linda Allen, Director of Quiet Oaks Hospice House.

And that’s exactly what it feels like.

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14TH ANNUAL EVENT

This year marks the 14th annual release, and whether the sun is shining or the skies are cloudy, the event will go on, rain or shine. A short program begins around 2:30 p.m., and you’ll hear live music in the gardens from The Lowertown Project, adding even more emotion to an already moving experience. When the butterflies are released (around 600 of them!), it’s not just beautiful. It’s powerful. It’s personal.

REGISTER FOR YOUR BUTTERFLY NOW

I asked Linda how the butterflies are prepared for the event, and she told me that each one must be reserved in advance. Since this is a fundraiser for Quiet Oaks, each butterfly is $25. If you want to be a part of it, now’s the time to register.

She explained how, before the release begins, the butterflies are gently handed out in individual envelopes. Sometimes, as people open them, the butterflies’ wings are still drying. In those moments, the butterflies often stay close, walking across hands, shoulders, even resting gently on someone's face before taking flight. Some people feel it’s a sign, a message from the loved ones they’re remembering.

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Other times, the butterflies lift into the air right away, fluttering toward the trees, disappearing into the sky. Either way, the moment is deeply moving, and for many, it brings peace and healing.

GET YOUR GLITTER BUTTERFLY TATTOOS

Another beautiful part of this year’s event: Rustic Stables will be there offering $5 glitter butterfly tattoos that last about a week. It’s a fun way to honor the day, especially for kids, with the proceeds supporting Quiet Oaks.

Shelly Rust, the owner of Rustic Stables, first attended the butterfly release event after losing her brother. He passed away at Quiet Oaks, and after experiencing the compassion and care her family received, she wanted to give back.

“Our experience at Quiet Oaks was probably the most spiritual thing I’ve ever gone through,” Shelly said. “I don’t think my brother could’ve died in a more beautiful setting. We just love Quiet Oaks, and we know there is no way we can return how they made us feel. We are forever thankful.”

DON'T MISS THIS EVENT- REGISTER NOW

If you’ve ever loved and lost someone, or if you just want to experience something beautiful that brings people together in the most heartfelt way, I truly encourage you to attend. Bring a lawn chair, bring a friend, or just bring yourself. You don’t need to have the perfect words; just an open heart.