Poinsettias on parade Take a break from shopping and entertaining to savor the hundreds of poinsettias in the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory's Sunken Garden. The spectacular display, which opens Dec. 3, includes five red poinsettia cultivars new to the market.

If you'd like waves of red as the backdrop for your holiday photos, visit the conservatory from 8 to 10 a.m. Dec. 4 with your camera. Cost is $5 per person. The Holiday Flower Show is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3 to Jan. 22.

The conservatory is also holding a three-course Holiday Tea and behind-the-scenes tour in the North Garden on Dec. 9. Seatings are at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are $45. Call 651-487-8250 for reservations.

Admission is free to the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul. Call 651-487-8200.

Girls' night out Wine and appetizers are part of the Minnesota State Horticultural Society's "Gardening Gals' Get-Together" from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 8 at 2705 Lincoln Dr., Roseville.

Create a small kissing ball with evergreens and get skin care tips.

Wine tastings, hors d'oeuvres and hourly drawings for gifts are planned. Cost is $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers. To register, call 651-643-3601. Deadline is Nov. 30.

LYNN UNDERWOOD