It’s amazing what a child can make with a poppy seed pod, a little moss and a few dried leaves.

The result is part of the magic that comes with one of Meerkerk Gardens’ most widely anticipated children’s events.

Girls and boys from all over Whidbey Island, and some off-islanders visiting grandparents, will gather at the woodland gardens in Greenbank for “Meerkerk Magic” from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 12.

It is an annual event that gives children a chance to spread their wings — literally.

Young girls dress up as fairies sporting wings and fancy dresses with garlands in their hair.

The event is centered around an activity for children to create their own fairy dolls with natural materials gathered by Meerkerk Gardens volunteers from the gardens and forested areas.

“We’ve been playing with fairies for close to 15 years,” said Susie Reynolds, nursery manager at Meerkerk Gardens.

The “Meerkerk Magic” event dates back even further, started in 1994 by Kristi O’Donnell, according to Annie Horton, who once again will be on hand dressed up as the fairy godmother.

Horton has been dressing up since the event’s inception 20 years ago.

“I’m a big, ol’ fairy person,” she said.

Admission for Meerkerk Magic is $5. Children under 16 are free.

Meerkerk Gardens, made up 10 acres of display and educational gardens and 43 acres of forested preserve, is located at 3531 Meerkerk Lane in Greenbank off Resort Road.

“It’s a magical place,” Horton said. “I think the little kids sense that. And this is a beautiful, beautiful time of year.”

For information, call 360-678-1912 or 360-222-0121, or  email to meerkerk@whidbey.net