This Weekend: After-Dark Delights
Posted in Around the Garden on December 7 2012, by Matt Newman
That’s enough relaxing for one week! While last weekend’s schedule kept things simple and streamlined, we’re stepping up the pace this time around with a series of exclusive events running the gamut from seasonal to enlightening. And, of course, everything in the middle. Between the trundling trains buzzing about the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, and the gingerbread frosting taking over the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, you’ll find winding Forest tours, wildlife exploration, and an opportunity to meet one of the NYBG‘s favorite photographers. I suppose I should also mention our “holiday happy hours,” which seems as apt a description as any.
Saturday morning begins with Debbie Becker’s weekly Bird Walk, though this particular session is both informative and proactive. Not only will you be scoping out the avian residents and visitors flitting about the Garden, but pipping each one off on a personal list. At the end of the walk, your bird counts will be submitted to Cornell for their database as an unofficial warm-up for the Christmas Bird Count. This annual, nationwide event goes a long way to helping researchers and conservationists understand the state of the bird world in the U.S., so you won’t just be putting your Saturday to good use–you’ll be contributing to a worthy cause, as well.
Also taking place this Saturday, the NYBG’s Shop in the Garden is hosting a book signing with our long-time supporter, friend, and visiting photographer, Larry Lederman. His work has carried him around the Garden season after season, documenting the aesthetic of our changing woodland and the many species of tree to be found within it. Over time, what began as a portfolio of works fulfilling his passion has evolved into Magnificent Trees of The New York Botanical Garden, a collection of photographs celebrating the tallest members of our botanical family. While you’re here, pick up a copy in the shop, pay a visit to Mr. Lederman’s table, and maybe do a little holiday shopping before you head out.
Finally, the icing on the gingerbread house comes along Saturday night, as we once again kick off Bar Car Nights, our fan-favorite evening outing for adults. Last year’s indulgences were a huge hit with our visitors, and we’re not about to let that enthusiasm go to waste this time around; join us during any one of three Saturday nights in December for a kid-free viewing of the Holiday Train Show, complimentary cocktails in hand. Each night will feature a different signature highball and discounts on dinner at local Arthur Avenue restaurants, making these date nights a must for anyone looking to put the holidays’ stresses on hold. But make a point of getting your tickets as early as possible–this weekend’s event is nearly sold out, and evenings on December 15 and 22 are filling up fast.
There are more weekend adventures to be had, some which run throughout December and into January. Head below for the full repertoire!
Saturday, December 8
Bird Walk featuring the Annual Bird Count – 11 a.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool at the Leon Levy Visitor Center
The diverse habitats of the Botanical Garden offer visitors a chance to see dozens of species of birds throughout the year. Bring your binoculars and walk the Garden grounds with an expert. On this week’s bird walk, collect data on resident bird populations and migratory species which help to assess the health of bird populations and to help guide conservation action. Data will be reported to birding websites as well as compiled for the Garden’s natural history records.
Film Screening: Holiday Train Show with David Hartman – 11:30 a.m., 1, 2, and 3 p.m.
In the Ross Hall
A PBS documentary narrated by David Hartman explores how the Holiday Train Show goes from imagination to creation, featuring exclusive interviews with designer Paul Busse.
Forest Tour: Secrets of this 50-acre Woodland – 12:30 p.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Experience the beauty of the Garden’s Thain Family Forest on this one-hour walking tour with an expertly trained docent. You’ll learn facts about the trees, history, geology, and ecology of this original, uncut woodland.
Book Signing — 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
At Shop in the Garden
Larry Lederman, landscape photographer and member of the Garden’s Board of Advisors, will be signing copies of his new book, Magnificent Trees of The New York Botanical Garden. Stop in to pick up a copy and get his autograph, then take some time to do a little holiday shopping before heading out.
Bar Car Nights – 7 to 9 p.m.
Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
On these special nights for grown-ups at the Holiday Train Show, leisurely view this wondrous exhibition while sipping a complimentary cocktail created exclusively for Bar Car Nights. Get into the holiday spirit under the magical glow of thousands of twinkling lights as you enjoy seasonal favorites by a capella group The Mistletones. A professional photographer will be on hand to capture this special holiday memory, and the images will be available for download or purchase after your visit. A cash bar and snacks will be available for purchase. Non-Member $30/Member $20 (Adults 21 and over). Advance tickets recommended; includes one free cocktail.
This weekend’s featured cocktail: “The Gingerbread Express,” compliments of Tuthilltown Spirits.
Sunday, December 9
Film Screening: Holiday Train Show with David Hartman – 11:30 a.m., 1, 2, and 3 p.m.
In the Ross Hall
A PBS documentary narrated by David Hartman explores how the Holiday Train Show goes from imagination to creation and features exclusive interviews with designer Paul Busse.
Manolo Valdés Monumental Sculpture Tour – 12:30 p.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool at the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Join a docent-led tour of the Manolo Valdés sculptures set throughout the Garden grounds. Get involved in conversation surrounding individual works of art.
Ongoing Children’s Programs
Gingerbread Adventures
Everett Children’s Adventure Garden
Open all day for exploration
Guided Activities: Weekdays, 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. / Weekends, 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Children explore the spices that make up a classic gingerbread recipe. Kids can step inside a child-sized gingerbread playhouse and also decorate a gingersnap cookie with frosting and candies. All ages will enjoy viewing a display of gingerbread houses made by New York City-area bakers.
