Peek through the ornate scrolled gates that stand at the entrance to Lakewold Gardens and imagine what lies beyond. A series of framed scenes, glimpsed through these historic gates that resemble the fabled gates in Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition.” Step inside and meander around the 10-acre garden, beginning with a stroll along the graveled driveway where hundreds of rhododendrons have donned their showy finery to enjoy along the route to the main house.

This coming week, May 5-13, during the Gardens’ annual MayFest is an especially good time to visit this lakeside gem. With thanks to Columbia Bank as Lakewold’s lead Mayfest sponsor, here’s a brief recap of what’s on the schedule:

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, plan to linger awhile as you enjoy 20 Ikebana arrangements created by members of Ikebana International 147. These delicate transitory arrangements in a variety of styles will be on display only a short time (May 5-7) so if you’ve always wanted to investigate this ancient art of flower arranging, now’s the time. Ikebana members will be available to tell you more. For more information about Ikebana International please visit www.ikebanahq.org

Be inspired by the airy, delicate pastels that have been incorporated into a variety of Spring Tabletop Decorations on May 5th – May 10th. This table-setting series is a preview of Lakewold’s traditional autumn tabletop display: designs that you’ll want to incorporate into your own colorful Spring Tabletop decorations once you’ve perused the assorted table settings in the Wagner House Dining Room. Tabletop decorations such as the one shown in the illustration will be featured this week.

There’s a lot more to enjoy this week including a stone cutting demonstration at the Garden Shop, historic photos of Lakewold Gardens, and the Lakewood Arts Commission Exhibit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 5-13, upstairs in the Wagner House. Join this year’s featured artists at 3 p.m. on May 11 in the Sunroom for a reception and entertainment by the Memorie Singers.

MayFest features 50 percent off all Memberships this week only! Membership benefits include: Free Admission, Lakewold Pathways, a quarterly newsletter full of historical tidbits, plant tips and information, upcoming events, and more, and a Ten Percent Discount at The Garden Shop.

For a complete schedule of this year’s MayFest activities, visit www.lakewoldgardens.org, and click on the “Events” link.