
Bonsai & Brews at World of Beer | The Villages
🌱🍻 Join us at World of Beer in The Villages, where you’ll learn the ancient art of bonsai while enjoying a refreshing brew. No green thumb required—just bring your curiosity and thirst for creativity!
At World of Beer in The Villages, we’re celebrating the fusion of two timeless traditions: bonsai and craft beer. 🌿🍻 Our award-winning bonsai artists from Thunderstruck Bonsai, along with special guest Ken Sandifer from Sanderland Gardens, will guide you through the steps of creating your very own miniature masterpiece. From shaping delicate branches to potting your bonsai, you’ll experience the meditative joy of this ancient practice.
As you work on your bonsai, explore an extensive beer menu featuring hundreds of brews and delicious food designed to enhance the flavor of an extensive beer selection. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts, there’s something for every palate. And don’t worry—we won’t judge if you accidentally spill a little soil on your pint glass!
Each Ticket Includes:
– A tropical species pre-bonsai tree
– Ceramic glazed bonsai pottery
– Wire, bonsai soil, and substrate
– Hands-on guidance to style and care for your bonsai
– Use of all necessary tools provided
– Aftercare instructions and guidance
– Your first beer from WOB
Whether you’re a seasoned bonsai enthusiast or a curious beginner, our Bonsai & Brews event is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow plant lovers and beer aficionados. Share stories, swap tips, and raise your glasses to creativity and community. Space is limited, so grab your tickets today!
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What is Bonsai & Brews?
Created by Thunderstruck Bonsai, this event is an authentic introduction to bonsai for beginners. During this 2-hour hands-on experience, you will create your own bonsai tree from scratch with guidance from local bonsai artists, as well as learn the basics of care from before you take home your own living masterpiece! 🪴 Bonsai & Brews events aim to foster community and increase awareness of local bonsai clubs. Ken, owner of Sandlerland Gardens and a local bonsai artist from The Villages, will be joining us to share his expertise and passion for bonsai. 🌿 Ken is a well-known member in the Florida bonsai community, and has displayed trees for several years at both the Bonsai Society of Florida Orlando Convention & Epcot.
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What do I need to bring to an event?
You don’t need to bring anything to an event, except your enthusiasm and creativity. We will provide everything you need to create your own bonsai tree.
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Can I bring a friend, does every attendee need a ticket?
Of course, you can bring a friend. The more the merrier! 😊 However, please note that each person should have a ticket to attend. If your friend does not have a ticket, due to limited seating availability we cannot guarantee that you can sit together, if at all. You can book a ticket online up until the start of the event, or with the host at the venue, subject to availability. 🍻
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What is the minimum age for attending an event?
There is none! Bonsai & Brews is a fun and creative experience designed to be accessible and entertaining for all ages and skill levels.

Artists
Justin ZabinskiAs an artist and workshop instructor, Justin has a knack for taking all the intimidation out of the art form, making complex techniques like structural wiring, pruning, and soil prep feel natural, approachable, and zero-stress.
Frequently highlighted by workshop guests for his patient, step-by-step guidance, Justin is always floating around the room to offer a hand, answer care questions, or reassure first-timers that there’s no reason to stress over a wrong cut. For Justin, bonsai is all about going with the flow, enjoying the hands-on process, and making sure everyone leaves the event with a great tree, new confidence, and good vibes.
Larry NaederLarry Nader is the owner of Thunderstruck Bonsai, a nursery dedicated to creating living bonsai art. His deep passion for bonsai artistry has earned him widespread recognition and respect in the bonsai community.
As the owner of Thunderstruck Bonsai, Larry has built a business dedicated to nurturing and cultivating premium bonsai specimens. He is deeply committed to fostering a strong sense of community through education and consultation on bonsai care. Larry actively engages with the community through workshops and educational events, teaching enthusiasts and newcomers about the artistry and techniques of bonsai.
In addition, Larry serves as the Vice President of the Suncoast Bonsai Society and is Chairman of the BSF Epcot Committee. He is also a dedicated student of renowned bonsai artist Nacho Marin, further enhancing his expertise and artistry.
Ken Sandifer | Sanderland GardensBonsai ArtistKen Sandifer is the Bonsai Practitioner for SanderLand Gardens. Sanderland Gardens Bonsai’s trees have been prominently displayed at Walt Disney’s Worlds 2023 Flower and Garden Festival, 2023 National Garden Club Show in Orlando, FL and in both 2023 and 2024 at the Bonsai Society of Florida Orlando Convention.







