This Weekend: Holiday Harmonies & More

Posted in Programs and Events on December 19 2014, by Lansing Moore

This weekend marks the beginning of peak season for the Holiday Train Show® as families from around the area come to celebrate this beloved tradition in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Don’t wait another moment to get your tickets! Time slots remain available to come enjoy this beloved tradition this weekend, but the next couple of weeks are sure to sell out.

In fact, Bar Car Nights have already sold out for tonight and tomorrow, so don’t wait to reserve tickets for these special evenings in January—they’re sure to disappear.

Be sure to catch the final performance of our all-new Winter Harmonies Concert Series on Sunday afternoon, as well. An artful selection of classical favorites, inspired by the Holiday Train Show® and performed by Le Train Bleu, will complement your visit. Head below for more information about this unique musical experience, as well as the rest of this weekend’s programs and tours.

 

Saturday, December 20

Holiday Guides – 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
Learn more about the exhibition and its model trains from our knowledgeable guides, who will show up-close samples of the plant parts used to make buildings, reveal behind-the-scenes images of the show’s installation, and share other special insights.

Bird Walk – 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 to learn about bird-friendly habitats, migrating species, and birds that make a permanent home at the Garden.

Winter Wonderland Tree Tour – 12:30 & 2:30 p.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool at the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Even in cold weather there’s plenty of interest in our gardens and collections. Meet at the Reflecting Pool and embark on an invigorating 45-minute walk to view the Garden’s stately conifer collection and old growth Forest amid the beauty of winter.

Holiday A Cappella – 1:30 & 3:30 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Celebrate the holiday spirit with music performed by a cappella musical groups.

Holiday Film Screenings: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – 2:30 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In Ross Hall
Enjoy some of the most cherished holiday films as they were meant to be seen: on the big screen! Expanding on last year’s program, this series will include classic films with train themes as well as traditional holiday fare

Bar Car Nights – 7–10 p.m. SOLD OUT
In the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
On these nights exclusively for adults 21 and over, the wintry landscape of NYBG sets the scene for festive and romantic outdoor adventures, with an after-dark viewing of the Holiday Train Show® as the centerpiece. Sip a complimentary cocktail as you journey through a series of station stops, including ice carving demonstrations under the starlight, festive treats like signature spiked hot cocoa and roasted chestnuts, an intimate jazz session in the warmth of the Pine Tree Café, and in the playful performances of Cirque de Light.
Non-Member $35/Member $25 (Adults 21 and over) Advance tickets recommended; includes one complimentary beer, wine, or cocktail of your choice. Although your ticket provides access to the entire event between 7–10 p.m., when purchasing tickets you will need to select an entrance time for the Holiday Train Show® in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

Sunday, December 21

Holiday Guides – 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
Learn more about the exhibition and its model trains from our knowledgeable guides, who will show up-close samples of the plant parts used to make buildings, reveal behind-the-scenes images of the show’s installation, and share other special insights.

Plants of the Winter Solstice Tour – 12:30 p.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool at the Leon Levy Visitor Center
The Winter Solstice happens this evening! Many cultures throughout history have celebrated the Sun on the Winter Solstice, often using plants as part of the festivities. Echoes from a number of these celebrations have come down to us today in our holiday traditions, and some of the plants that were used then are growing not far from where you are standing now. Explore some timely Solstice traditions and plant folklore with a Garden Guide on this one-hour walking tour.

Holiday A Cappella – 1:30 & 3:30 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Celebrate the holiday spirit with music performed by a cappella musical groups.

Holiday Film Screenings: A Christmas Carol (1951) – 1:30 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In Ross Hall
Enjoy some of the most cherished holiday films as they were meant to be seen: on the big screen! Expanding on last year’s program, this series will include classic films with train themes as well as traditional holiday fare.

Holiday Landmarks Tour – 2:30 p.m.
Meet at the Reflecting Pool in the Leon Levy Visitor Center
Meet at the Reflecting Pool for a fascinating overview of the Garden’s history and its importance as a vital NYC cultural destination. With an expert guide, explore the Allée, the Fountain of Life, and the Mertz Library. Then stroll along the Poetry Walk ending at the beloved Holiday Train Show® exhibition in the Haupt Conservatory, the Garden’s preeminent NYC Landmark building.

Winter Harmonies Concert Series – 4 p.m.
“A Winter’s Journey” with Le Train Bleu
In Ross Hall
A perfect way to celebrate the season with the glorious music of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos (#4 and #5) together with Vivaldi’s popular “Winter” movement from “The Four Seasons” performed by the dynamic young ensemble, Le Train Bleu, with renowned flutist Ransom Wilson as its music director. Special Tickets Required. Seating is first come first served.

Ongoing Children’s Programs

Evergreen Express
Saturdays – 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Sundays – 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
A part of the Holiday Train Show®
In the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden
Hop aboard the Evergreen Express for lively activities in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, where each station stop offers something new to create or explore! Build your own train puppet with master puppeteer Ralph Lee, join a musical marching parade around the collection, and visit the William and Lynda Steere Discovery Center, where a hands-on workshop with cones, needles, and other winter plant parts helps you craft your own miniature balsam fir pillow.