I'd say take the 4 year old. The crowds and such are a part of the experience and since it is only individuals interested in gardening there it isn't like crowds at a local fair and such. 4 years olds are curious and will learn much and enjoy the experience.

I believe I will be there both Friday and Saturday, as there are speakers I want to hear on both days. Dick Tyler from Pine Knot Hellebores on Friday, and my good friend Darrell Probst of Garden Vision (epimediums) on Saturday.

Crowds get a bit hectic at times, especially on opening day, but they seem to be mostly lookers, not buyers, so you should have some good things to look at.

George

scross4 said a 4 MONTH old. Maybe she'd be content to nap, perhaps in one of those, can't think of the name -slings, backback type of baby holder you can strap on, or in the stroller?

I'd think a 4 month old would be fine, she'd probably just sleep if she gets over stimulated. I hauled my kids everywhere when they were infants, and it was much easier than when they started toddling and running.

a 4-mo. old will definitely be fine as long as 'ophelia' isn't visiting the show. [last year we had 'ivan' there for a day, but people still came!] i saw there's a whole contingent of people in the mid-atlantic forum planning to attend.

I think your baby will do fine ... there are lots of shady quiet spots on the Winterthur grounds so you can always find a place to chill out if you need to take a break. I've been for the last few years and think that early morning or late afternoon hours are the quieter times ... Sunday seemed to be a little quieter than Friday or Saturday. I know they have a big free event for kids up in their children's garden on Sunday, so that should be fun too!