New England Botanic Garden Jan/Feb 2026 E-Bulletin

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2026

Education at New England Botanic Garden is supported by the Alden Trust Education Fund, B.A. Booth Fund, Cary Brothers Fund, Frances E. and Rachel E. McQuaid Trust, Helen Stoddard Fund, and June C. Havens Education Fund.

Program Registration

For program details or to register, visit “LEARN” at nebg.org. Questions? Contact our Registrar at registrar@nebg.org or 508-869-6111 x174.

Adult Programs

Gardening & Horticulture

Winter Horticulture Walk & Talk

NEBG HORTICULTURE STAFF

Discover the hidden life of the winter garden! Join our horticulture experts on a spirited outdoor walk revealing resilient plants, frosty textures, and surprising signs of growth in the quiet season.

Wednesdays, January 14 & February 11, 11am –12pm

$8 M; $32 NM

From Seed Catalog to Garden Design:

Seed Swap & Social NEBG HORTICULTURE STAFF

A cozy night for garden lovers! Gather with fellow gardeners to swap seeds, explore new varieties, learn to identify, clean, and store saved seeds, and design a productive yet ornamental vegetable garden that looks as good as it grows.

Tuesdays, January 27, February 10 & March 24, 6–7:30pm

$5 M; $15 NM

Winter Tree Bark Identification Walk

MICHAEL WOJTECH

Join author and naturalist Michael Wojtech for a closer look at the fascinating world of bark. Discover why some trees have smooth bark while others are rugged or peeling, and uncover the secrets these variations reveal.

Saturday, February 7, 10:30am –2pm

$55 M; $66 NM

Houseplant Propagation Workshop BETSY SZYMCZAK

Learn how to propagate some of your favorite houseplants and take home cuttings to practice with at home.

Sunday, February 8, 2–4pm

$55 M; $66 NM

Orchid Exhibition Walk & Talk

NEBG HORTICULTURE STAFF

Explore our annual Orchid Exhibition, Elevated, with an exclusive behind the scenes tour and learn about the species that make up the display of 2,500 orchids.

Wednesdays, February, 11, 18 & 25, 9–10am

$12 M; $32 NM

Basics of Orchid Care and Repotting DARYL YERDON

Learn essential techniques for repotting and properly caring for orchids with guidance from Daryl Yerdon, President of the New Hampshire Orchid Society, to help your plants stay healthy and bloom longer.

Wednesday, February 11, 6–9pm

$55 M; $66 NM

Botany Basics: Discover the Science of Plants

NEBG HORTICULTURE STAFF

Decode plant parts, master botanical names, and impress friends with quirky plant facts in this fun, laid-back intro to horticulture and botany.

ONLINE Thursday, February 12, 7–8pm

$10 M; $12 NM

Beginner’s Guide to Winter Pruning

NEBG HORTICULTURE STAFF

Learn the basics of pruning in this hands-on workshop, focused on shaping fruit trees and caring for non-flowering evergreens and ornamentals. This engaging session is perfect for beginners and will build pruning skills with confidence to maintain healthy, beautiful plants.

Sunday, February 22, 10:30am –2pm

$40 M; $55 NM

llustrated: Art/Science at the Garden

Observation & Imagination (ONLINE)

Friday, January 23, 2026

10am–3pm

Discover the intersection of art, science, and nature in this one-day online symposium, followed by two days of in-person optional workshops. Engage with artists, researchers, and educators through talks and demonstrations that explore creativity, curiosity, and the pursuit of discovery.

early bird : $64 M; $75 NM / early registration ends on january 3, 2026

general : $75 M; $90 NM

How Observation Sparks Creativity

carol schwartz , illustrator

Discover how observing nature fuels creativity and inspires art that champions plants and pollinators.

Artful Science and Early Botanical Photography

shelley lawrence kirkwood , photographer & artist

Explore how 19th-century photographic experiments united art, science, and the study of plants.

lllustrating Lichens: Practical Considerations and Process

ethan roos , science & nature illustrator

Learn the essentials of lichen anatomy, field observation, and creating striking lichen illustrations.

Ecotones: Art and Science at Biological Field Stations

nancy lowe , artist & educator

Discover how biological field stations and marine labs—vital sites for research, education, and contemporary art—reveal powerful intersections of art, science, and environment through compelling examples.

Drawing the Living World: Botanical Illustration in a Museum Context

alice tangerini , botanical illustrator , smithsonian institution ’ s national museum of natural history

Explore how precise scientific drawing brings plant diversity to life in a museum setting. This lecture reveals the craft, accuracy, and artistry behind botanical illustration and its role in visualizing the living world.

Enhance the Experience with In-Person Art Making!

(Additional fees apply)

Glasswork Beading sue underwood , artist

Saturday, January 24, 10:30am–12:30pm

$35 M; $55 NM

Bloomscapes: The Art of Statement

Arrangements sam paradis , sam ’ s stems florist

Saturday, January 24, 9:30am–12:30pm

$85 M; $99 NM

Botanical Still Life: The Language of Flowers

shelley lawrence kirkwood , photographer & artist

Saturday, January 24, 2–4:30pm

$70 M; $84 NM

Wire Sculpture and Basketry Workshop

bayda asbridge , mixed media artist

Sunday, January 25, 10am–2pm

$68 M; $82 NM

Botanical Threads: A Phenology

Stitch-Along liz ives , textile artist

Sunday, January 25, 2–4pm

$40 M; $55 NM

Drawing Basics: Fantastic Flowers in Pen & Ink

carol schwartz , illustrator ONLINE 4-WEEK SERIES

Saturdays, January 24, 31, February 7, 14

10:30am–12:30pm

$155 M; $186 NM

Please see pages 5 & 6 for more information.

Urban Tree Symposium

Beneath the Canopy: Roots, Soil, and City Life

Friday, February 27, 2026

9am–4:30pm

New England Botanic Garden’s annual Urban Tree Symposium is dedicated to exploring the importance of urban forests and ways we can improve our green spaces. Each symposium brings together experts in the fields of forestry, horticulture, biology, technology and more for a day of learning and connecting that will inform your work in our communities and your own home. The Urban Tree Symposium is geared toward current and aspiring professionals, but all are welcome. CEUs available.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Dr. Ed Gilman professor emeritus , environmental horticulture department , university of florida

What

the Woods Tell Us About Pruning Trees

Fagus Forethought and Carpinus Conundrums

dr . matthew borden , bartlett tree research laboratories

Preserving Threatened New England Urban Forests Utilizing Carbon Markets

john whalen , chief information officer , city forest credits registry

Wood Banks & Urban Forestry: Exploring the Relationship

Sponsored by

jason e . dampier phd , isa , arborist and senior member of woodbank community research group

richard w . harper phd , extension professor of urban & community forestry , umass amherst

Arts & Photography

Botanical Textile Mending DROP-IN SERIES

Bring your own mending project for an evening of creative repair in the conservatories. Learn new skills in this relaxed, drop-in series celebrating sustainable fashion and botanical inspiration.

Tuesdays in January, 6–7:30pm

$10 M; $12 NM

Smartphone Photography STEVE MCGRATH

Through the Lens: Capturing the Seasons

STEVE MCGRATH

Each month, capture the beauty of the changing seasons, and build skills through hands-on guidance, creative exploration, and supportive feedback. All levels welcome.

Sunday, January 11, 10am –12:30pm

Sunday, February 15, 10am –12:30pm

$40 M; $55 NM

Glasswork Beading SUE UNDERWOOD

Discover the art of glasswork! Learn the history and techniques behind glass beadmaking, then design and create your own unique necklace using handmade glass beads.

Saturday, January 24, 10:30am –12:30pm

$35 M; $55 NM

Botanical Still Life: The Language of Flowers

SHELLEY LAWRENCE KIRKWOOD

Join botanical photographer Shelley Lawrence Kirkwood for an advanced workshop on composition, lighting, and styling. Capture expressive still-life images that convey the artistry and symbolic language of flowers.

Saturday, January 24, 2–4:30pm

$70 M; $84 NM

Wire Sculpture and Basketry Workshop

BAYDA ASBRIDGE

Discover modern basketry with artist Bayda Ashbridge. Learn wire weaving techniques including knotless netting and random weaving while exploring creative form and structure. All materials provided—no experience needed.

Sunday, January 25, 10am –2pm

$68 M; $82 NM

Have your smartphone ready for this workshop on the basics of photography. Build skills in composition, using your camera features, and working with Photoshop in this hands-on course.

Saturday, January 31, 10am–12:30pm

$40 M; $60 NM

Botanical Threads: A Phenology Stitch-Along LIZ IVES

Explore plant phenology through monthly embroidery inspired by seasonal blooms. Learn simple stitches, follow nature’s rhythm, and create a beautiful year-long record in thread. This class occurs throughout the year.

Sundays, January 25 & February 1, 2–4pm

$40 M; $55 NM

Photographing Snowflakes STEVE MCGRATH

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Step into a frosted wonderland to explore the delicate world of snowflake photography and macrophotography and capture the fleeting beauty of these icy marvels.

ONLINE Saturday, February 7, 10–11:30am

$40 M; $48 NM

The Art of the Handmade Journal LIZ IVES

Discover the timeless craft of bookbinding as you create your own hand-bound art journal. Learn simple binding methods, design your cover, and fill your pages with decorative papers or personal artwork inspired by the beauty of the gardens.

Saturday, January 31, 10am –2pm

$65 M; $78 NM

Drawing Basics: Fantastic Flowers in Pen & Ink

CAROL SCHWARTZ

Find delight in drawing the beautiful blooms of warmer months. Learn some basic techniques of working with pen and ink and practice using a pen to hatch, crosshatch, and stipple, to control light and shadow in your botanical drawings.

ONLINE Saturdays, January 24, 31, February 7, 14, 10:30am –12:30pm

$155 M; $186 NM

Orchid Portraits in Watercolor VICTORIA CHAPMAN

Capture the beauty of orchids during this multi-session class. Learn quick botanical sketching, color mixing for petals and speckles, glazing, and negative painting to create your own original orchid portrait.

Wednesdays, February 4 & 11, 1–4pm

$88 M; $99 NM

Needle Felted Succulents LISA MAGNUSON

Learn the art of needle felting and make your own mini-succulent—no watering required! Learn the basics of working with wool roving and using a special felting needle.

Saturday, February 7, 1–4pm

$68 M; $82 NM

Elevating Orchids SHELLEY LAWRENCE KIRKWOOD

Take your photography to the next level with awardwinning botanical photographer Shelley Lawrence Kirkwood. Designed for SLR and macro users, this hands-on session explores lighting, composition, and color theory while photographing Elevated: An Orchid Exhibition.

Tuesday, February 10, 6–9pm

$70 M; $84 NM

Valentine’s & “Besties” Day Botanical Illustration Cards CAROL SCHWARTZ

Learn easy and fun watercolor techniques and create a set of handmade Valentine‘s Day cards to take home and share with loved ones in this fun workshop for beginners.

Friday, February 13, 1–4pm

$55 M; $70 NM

Elevated: Drop-In Orchid Photography Night

SELF-GUIDED

Join us after hours for an exclusive photography session. Get up close and personal with the orchids and displays of our Elevated orchid exhibition and practice your craft. This is a self-guided session; please bring your own equipment

Tuesdays, February 17 & 24, 6–7:30pm

$10 M; $15 NM

Watercolors in the Conservatory VICTORIA CHAPMAN

Walk together through the Orangerie and paint with a watercolor journal, water brushes, and watercolor paints to create your own depiction of the Garden’s amazing flora.

Sunday, January 4, 1–4pm

$55 M; $66 NM

Floral Design

Bloomscapes: The Art of Statement Arrangements SAM PARADIS, SAM’S STEMS

Create beautiful fresh arrangements using eco-friendly techniques and vintage vessels. Learn professional design principles while eliminating floral foam and embracing sustainable practices that honor both artistry and environment.

Saturday, January 24, 9:30am –12:30pm

$85 M; $99 NM

Petals & Prosecco MARION ALYSON PROKOP

Spend a sparkling afternoon celebrating friendship and flowers! Enjoy blooms and bubbles as you sip Prosecco and create rose-printed art using hammer printing techniques.

Saturday, February 14, 2–4pm

$65 M; $78 NM

Snow & Petals: White Winter Creations

SAM PARADIS, SAM'S STEMS

Raise a glass and design your own winter-white floral creation! Enjoy a seasonal cocktail while crafting with fragrant blooms, evergreens, and silvery textures to capture the serene beauty of winter in shades of white and cream.

Thursday, February 26, 6–8pm

$80 M; $96 NM

Modern Orchid Floral Design

HALEY CORMIER, BLUEBIRD BOUQUETS

Sometimes less truly is more, especially when working with luxurious orchids. Receive step-by-step instruction as you create a sophisticated floral design featuring an assortment of eucalyptus, sedum, soft ferns, and miniature Phalaenopsis orchids.

Saturday, February 28, 2–4pm

$125 M; $150 NM

PAUL E. ROGERS LECTURE

In the Footsteps of Giants

February 8, 2–3:30pm

IN-PERSON and ONLINE

Pre-registration required.

Explore the living legacies of three of the UK’s most influential gardens in a rare transatlantic panel with Julia Boulton (Long Barn Gardens), Rebecca Lemonius (Beth Chatto’s Garden), and Claire Greenslade (Hestercombe Gardens), moderated by Annie Guilfoyle of Garden Masterclass UK. Panelists will share stories about garden landscapes shaped by trailblazing female horticulturists in an event English garden lovers won’t want to miss.

This FREE program is made possible by the Paul E. Rogers endowment supporting community education and outreach in horticulture and gardening.

SPEAKER SERIES

SAVE THE DATE! Chromatic

Wonders of the Fungi Kingdom

JULIE BEELER

Discover the vibrant world of fungal dyes with artist Julie Beeler, creator of the Mushroom Color Atlas (mushroomcoloratlas.com) Explore how mushrooms reveal a hidden spectrum of color through art, science, and nature-inspired design.

ONLINE

Wednesday, April 29, 7–8 pm

$15 M; $18 NM

PEOPLE & PLANTS: A COMMUNITY LECTURE SERIES

HOSTED BY NEBG'S INCLUSION, DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND ACCESSIBILITY COMMITTEE

In celebration of Black History Month and Women’s History Month, join us for a FREE series of online webinars featuring thought leaders advancing plant knowledge, fostering community, fighting injustice, and championing the preservation of vital ecosystems. ONLINE WEBINAR, FREE

Growing Food is an Act of Resistance

KAREN WASHINGTON, FARMER & ACTIVIST

Wednesday, February 18 7–8pm

Vanilla So Black

DEREK HAYNES, THE CHOCOLATE BOTANIST

Wednesday, February 25 7–8pm

Lunch-and-Learn: Restoration & Reciprocity

ROBIN WALL KIMMERER, AUTHOR, BRAIDING SWEETGRASS, THE SERVICEBERRY

Wednesday, March 18 12–1pm

Portrait of Karen Washington by Maya Allegro, part of the Garden's Horticultural Heroes exhibition.

Health & Wellness

Weekday Wellness

Chair Yoga KENDRA MCCUINE

Enjoy gentle yoga with a chair as a prop in our fun, indoor class. This fully supported practice offers a unique way to experience the benefits of yoga. Ideal for seniors, desk-bound professionals, those recovering from injury, or anyone with limited mobility.

Tuesdays, 11:30am–12:30pm

Fridays, 11am –12pm

$16 M; $32 NM

Yoga at the Garden MANDI GARRISON

Enjoy gentle-to-moderate flow yoga in a class for all levels. Classes held indoors.

Tuesdays, 6–7pm

Thursdays, 10:30–11:30am

$16 M; $20 NM

Qigong & Tai Chi Movement ROSE HORWITZ

Breathe deeply and practice mindful, gentle, fluid movements to reduce stress and improve strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, range of motion, and stamina.

Wednesdays, 10:15–11:45am

$26 M; $36 NM

Shinrin-yoku Forest Bathing in the Conservatory

NADINE MAZZOLA

Relax indoors in the quiet of our subtropical conservatories. Refresh through mindfulness practices and sensory awareness while experiencing the beauty of nature.

Wednesday, January 14, 6–7:30pm

Wednesday, February 11, 6–7:30pm

$40 M; $48 NM

Energy Healing Sound Bath in the Conservatory

BRANDY LEFSYK

A sound bath reduces stress and anxiety by inducing a state of relaxation. Join us for a one-hour program in our subtropical conservatories that will leave you feeling at peace.

Wednesday, January 21, 6–7pm

Wednesday, February 4, 6–7pm

$32 M; $37 NM

Yoga for Everyone HARPER WISE

Join us for an all-levels flow class in our subtropical conservatory, a safe, welcoming space for movement, mindfulness, and connection among lush greenery.

Wednesday, January 28, 6–7pm

Wednesday, February 25, 6–7pm

$16 M; $20 NM

The Stillness Within: Winter Meditation Series

DANIELA SCHALLER

Amid winter’s quiet, find space to breathe, release, and discover quiet renewal in the subtropical conservatory. Each guided meditation invites calm, reflection, and presence—from January’s green stillness to the soft bloom of orchids in late winter.

Wednesday, February 18, 6–7pm

Thursday, February 26, 6–7pm

Wednesday, March 11, 6–7pm

Thursday, March 19, 6–7pm

SERIES: $125 M; $150 NM

PER CLASS: $35 M; $42 NM

Weekend Wellness

Renew with Yoga in the New Year LINDA SNAY

Start the year with intention and calm. This two-hour mini retreat blends gentle yoga, breathwork, and guided Yoga Nidra for deep rest. Set your Sankalpa—your heartfelt intention—and leave refreshed, centered, and ready for the year ahead.

Saturday, January 3, 9–11am

$35 M; $45 NM

Shinrin-yoku Forest Bathing NADINE MAZZOLA

Relax and refresh through mindfulness practices and sensory awareness while experiencing the beauty of nature outdoors.

Sunday, January 11, 10am –12pm

Sunday, February 15, 10am –12pm

$40 M; $55 NM

Introduction to Zentangle KAREN KEEFE

Zentangle is an easy-to-learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns, many of them inspired by nature. This hands-on class introduces you to basic Zentangle principles and methodology.

Sunday, January 25, 1–4:30pm

$46 M; $55 NM

Saturday Morning Yoga RACHEL BODURTHA

Join us for Saturday morning yoga and mindful reflection to cultivate gratitude. This all-levels friendly Vinyasa flow focuses on a breath, mind, and body connection.

Saturday, February 7, 9:30–10:30am

$16 M; $32 NM

Honey Medicine: Make Herb-Infused Honeys & More JADE ALICANDRO

Discover the healing synergy of honey and herbs in this hands-on workshop with herbalist Jade Alicandro. Learn the medicinal properties of honey, create a Winter Immune Honey, and explore traditional folk medicine-making techniques.

Sunday, February 8, 10:30am –12:30pm

$40 M; $63 NM

Advanced Zentangle KAREN KEEFE

Dive further into the world of Zentangle and learn more complex tangles, techniques for tangulation, and how to blend patterns and use various Zentangle tools with different media.

Sunday, February 15, 1–4:30pm

$46 M; $55 NM

NEW!

HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Nature-Based Tools for Burnout, Anxiety, and Depression: For Personal Self-Care and Clinical Application

MAZZOLA, CFTG MAT

This one-day workshop—available in person or remotely via Zoom—provides mental health clinicians and healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and firsthand experience to incorporate a wide variety of nature-based tools and mindful nature-based techniques into both personal self-care and professional practice. This activity is intended for physicians, primary care physicians, advanced practice providers (PAs and NPs), general practice providers (family medicine and primary care), as well as those in oncology, geriatrics, psychiatry, psychology, and social workers. Accredited by Mass General Brigham.

Friday, March 20 or Monday March 30, 8:30am –4:30pm

$275

In the Flow: Harnessing ADHD Creativity in Nature

Discover the powerful connection between ADHD, creativity, and nature in this immersive one-day workshop featuring mindful outdoor experiences, guided art-making, and supportive tools for self-understanding, expression, and growth.

Saturday, March 14, 9:30am –3:30pm

$250 M; $300 NM

Volunteer with Us!

Volunteering at New England Botanic Garden supports our mission of creating experiences with plants that inspire people and improve the world. From greeting guests and caring for the gardens, to assisting with special events and youth education programs, volunteers support the Garden in countless ways.

Learn more at nebg.org/volunteer

Food & Drink

Hot Chocolate Bomb Creations

VIVILICIOUS CHOCOLATES

Indulge your inner chocolatier! Craft decadent hot chocolate bombs using pure chocolate from around the world. Learn tempering, molding, and creative fillings for an interactive, cozy winter treat that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

Sunday, January 18, 1–4pm

$75 M; $90 NM

Cacao & Petals: Flower-Infused Chocolate Bars

VIVILICIOUS CHOCOLATES

Create two of your own artisan chocolate bars infused with edible flowers and botanicals. Blend fine fair-trade chocolate with floral beauty in this sensory workshop celebrating nature’s colors, aromas, and flavors in an elegant, delicious confection.

Sunday, February 8, 10am –2pm

$85 M; $97 NM

The Grapes of Mass: Heritage Grape Varieties and Wine Tasting DEAR NATIVE GRAPES VINEYARD

Join us for a special tasting and discovery session featuring heritage grape varieties once lost to the past and now reborn at Dear Native Grapes. Learn about native and hybrid American grapes, their resilient history and unique flavor profiles, then sample curated wines made from these rare vines grown in the Catskills.

ONLINE & IN-PERSON Sunday, February 22, 1–2:30pm

$40 M; $45 NM

Botanical Mixology: Orchid Flower Power

Thursday, February 26, 6–8pm

Thursday, March 19, 6–8pm

PEPPERS ARTFUL EVENTS

Celebrate orchids in bloom with a twist! Join Pepper’s Artful Events for an evening of botanical mixology inspired by these exotic flowers. Learn to craft floral cocktails, explore edible botanicals, and sip your way through the science of flavor.

$65 M; $78 NM

GARDEN DINNER SERIES

Enjoy special dining experiences celebrating plants, local agriculture, and culinary artistry. Savor seasonal, multicourse menus by Peppers Artful Events, each highlighting a different cuisine. Garden dining events are 21+.

Orchid Delight

Sunday, February 15, 6pm

This immersive evening will take you on a culinary journey around the world, with each course thoughtfully crafted to reflect the some of the native regions orchids come from. The menu is inspired by the vibrant flavors and traditions of Southeast Asia, South America, the Caribbean, and beyond. Each plate will capture the essence of the orchids’ diverse habitats, from tropical rain forests to misty mountain slopes.

$115 M; $125 NM

TRIPS & TOURS

Passport to Adventure:

See the World, Support the Garden

Unlock your wanderlust! Breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and extraordinary international gardens await. New England Botanic Garden is excited to partner with Collette to offer exciting travel opportunities that support the Garden.

Discover Aloha Hawaii

September 16–24, 2026

Embark on a journey through the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Kauai and Maui, where adventure meets tranquility. From the sight of the iconic Iao Needle to the lore of the hula, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural connections, and relaxation.

VISIT NEBG.ORG FOR PRICING

Spotlight on the French Riviera & the Menton Lemon Festival

September 16–24, 2026

Discover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches, and elegant allure that attract the rich and famous to this exquisite French Riviera, including the legendary Nice Carnival. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the Côte d’Azur.

VISIT NEBG.ORG FOR PRICING

Iao Needle, Maui, Hawaii

Youth Programs

Kids Workshops

Arctic Terrariums | AGES 6–12

Create your own arctic inspired terrarium complete with a succulent and winter animal friend.

Sunday, January 25, 2–3:30pm

M: $28 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $36 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Art & Nature: Snowflakes | AGES 5–7

Investigate snowflakes as we play games, listen to a story, and create sparkling snowflake art!

Saturday, January 31, 10:30–11:30am

M: $10 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Kids’ Winter Yoga | AGES 8–12

Take in the beauty of winter as we stretch, move, and imagine the cozy season through yoga!

Sunday, February 22, 10:15–11am

M: $12 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $20 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Homeschool Programs

Homeschool: Winter Birds | AGES 6–12

Discover the birds found at the Garden and learn how to identify species by colors, calls, and nests.

Friday, January 23, 1:30–3pm

M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Homeschool: Evergreens | AGES 6–12

Discover the secrets of evergreens and how they thrive through the cold winter months!

Friday, February 6, 1–2:30pm

M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Homeschool: Vicious Vines | AGES 6–12

Venture into our lush subtropical conservatories to uncover the wild world of vines!

Friday, February 27, 1–2:30pm

M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Family Fun

Garden Buds | AGES 3–5

Join us for circle time, a story, a take-home craft packet, and a guided garden adventure.

Wednesdays, 10:30–11:30am

M: $8 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $16 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Family Paint Party | AGES 7 +

Come create together as you each paint a birch tree forest guided by step-by-step instructions.

Saturday, January 10, 2–3:30pm

M: $22 CHILD, $22 ADULT; NM: $30 CHILD, $40 ADULT

Little Seedlings | AGES 1–3

Come explore the wonderful world of plants and practice sorting, counting, observing, and more.

Tuesday, January 27, 10:30–11:30am

Tuesday, February 24, 10:30–11:30am

M: $6 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $6 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Family Clay Studio | AGES 7 +

Create together as we sculpt clay flowers inspired by Elevated: An Orchid Exhibition

Saturday, February 7, 10:30am –12pm

M: $22 CHILD, $22 ADULT; NM: $30 CHILD, $40 ADULT

Visit us for Nature Play Days at the Garden. Join us for an interactive hour of exciting stories about plants, animals, nature, and more set in our subtropical conservatory. Visit our website for more details.

Nature Storytime | AGES 3–8

Tuesdays, 11am–12pm

Join us for an interactive hour of exciting stories about plants, animals, nature, and more.

Discovery Backpacks | AGES 3–12

Sunday through Saturday, 10am–5pm

Check out our Discovery Backpacks filled with exciting activities and tools for exploring together. Discovery Backpack activities change each season.

SUMMER CAMP

This full-day camp is just for kids. Unleash your sense of adventure, uncover the amazing science of plants, and explore nature’s hidden stories all around us.

Monday through Friday in July & August, 9am–3pm

M: $395 CHILD; NM: $445 CHILD

Growing Gardens

Play, explore, and grow! Become a budding botanist, go on gardening adventures, dig in the dirt, spot curious critters, and learn about the amazing science of plants.

July 6 to 10 | ages 5–6 & 7–10

August 3 to 7 | ages 7–9 & 10–12

Nature Quest

Embark on epic side quests as we explore outdoors and unlock the hidden secrets of the plant realm. Adventure awaits—are you ready to play?

July 13 to 17 | ages 7–9 & 10–12

Myths & Magic

Join us for a week of play, exploration, and investigation as we search for signs of magic in enchanted gardens, cast spells, and make nature potions.

July 20 to 24 | ages 5–6 & 7–10

Wings, Claws, & Tails

Bunnies, turtles, and birds—oh my! From tiny bugs to big mammals, become a junior biologist and explore the amazing secrets of the animal kingdom.

July 27 to 31 | ages 5–6 & 7–10

FairytaleForest

school vacation week

Saturday to Friday, February 14 – 20

This February break, explore the enchanted woods where fairytale creatures roam. Each day is filled with imaginative games, creative crafts, and outdoor discoveries inspired by beloved storybooks. Join a youth class where you can grow a beanstalk like Jack, mix up fairytale potions, or craft a mask to become your favorite storybook animal. Get ready for a week of wonder, storytelling, and hands-on fun in the Fairytale Forest!

Free Drop-in Activities

ALL AGES

Step into the pages of your favorite story as you enter our activity room filled with fairytale magic! Build a beanstalk, read a classic fairytale, search for your favorite character, investigate nature, and try a magical craft.

Saturday to Friday, February 14 to 20, 10am –4pm INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

Enchanted Valentines

AGES 5–12

Design a Valentine and a flower arrangement with a touch of fairytale magic.

Saturday, February 14, 10:30am –12pm

M: $26 CHILD, $0 ADULT

Magic Beans Garden

AGES 6–10

Learn about the life cycle of a bean and plant your own magic bean jar garden.

Monday, February 16, 10:30am –12pm

M: $22 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $32 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Fairytale Potions

AGES 6–10

Cast a spell and mix up magical potions, sparkling elixirs, and bubbling brews

Tuesday, February 17, 2–3:30pm

M: $18 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $28 CHILD, $20 ADULT

NM: $34 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Forest Luminaries AGES 8–12

Create a glowing forest tree using natural materials and a tea light.

Sunday, February 15, 1–2:30pm

M: $25 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $35 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Garden Buds AGES 3–5

Join us for circle time, a story, a take-home craft packet, and a guided garden adventure.

Wednesday, February 18, 10:30–11:30am

M: $8 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $16 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Storybook Quest AGES 6–10

Journey through the woods on a guided hike filled with storybook challenges inspired by your favorite fairytales.

Wednesday, February 18, 1–2pm

M: $12 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $20 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Once Upon a Mask AGES 7–12

Transform into your favorite storybook character, whether you are the big bad wolf or a little duckling.

Thursday, February 19, 10:30am –12pm

M: $20 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $28 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Fairytale Houses AGES 5–12

Use natural materials to create a magical mini home for fairies or a mossy swamp hideaway fit for an ogre.

Friday, February 20, 1–2:30pm

M: $25 CHILD, $0 ADULT

NM: $35 CHILD, $20 ADULT

Winter Discoveries

Monday to Friday, February 16 – 20, 9am–3pm AGES 7–10

Join us for a fun-filled week of nature hiking, crafting, and investigation with new activities each day.

M: $75 CHILD, NM: $85 CHILD Priced per day. Register for the whole week or choose specific days.

FEBRUARY 7 – MARCH 22

Escape the winter chill in our lush subtropical conservatories where thousands of dazzling orchids burst into bloom during our annual orchid exhibition. Explore a vibrant paradise and let your imagination soar as you enjoy the breathtaking aerial installations of artist Cicely Carew.

Opening Weekend

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7 & 8

10am-4pm

Be among the first to experience the breathtaking orchid displays and aerial works of artist Cicely Carew at Elevated: An Orchid Exhibition. Enjoy live music in our subtropical conservatories and a curated artisan vendor market.

INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

an Orchid Exhibition

Orchids After Dark (21

+)

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

FEBRUARY 13 THROUGH MARCH 14

6-8pm

Experience the elegance of Elevated: An Orchid Exhibition after-hours in a whole new light. Enjoy live music, drinks, and light bites while exploring our stunning orchid displays and curated ambience. Ticket price includes one free beverage and a unique night out.

$22 M; $32NM

Exhibition

Fridays & Saturdays

January 9 through 17, 7-10pm

Get ready to boogie among the blooms with an unforgettable night of groovy tunes. Bust a move under dazzling displays, dress in your best retro glam, and party like it’s the 1970s. Ticket price includes one free beverage and a night of good vibes. (18+)

M: $25; $35 NM

Fireside Concert

Friday, January 30 through Sunday, February 1, 7-8:30pm

Enjoy warm notes on chilly winter nights. In partnership with Juventas New Music Ensemble, join us for an intimate concert experience set against the cozy backdrop of a crackling fire. This year’s program features music inspired by the richness of each composer's heritage, celebrating the many cultures that shape our country.

Visit nebg.org for more details.

May 16–November 1, 2026

Step into a world of color and wonder with the stunning glass and steel art sculptures of artist Alex Heveri.

Now booking for 2026 and 2027 wedding seasons! Visit nebg.org/weddings for information.

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