This Weekend: The Winter Harmonies Concert Series Brings Music to NYBG

Posted in Programs and Events on December 5 2014, by Lansing Moore

This Sunday afternoon is the first of our all-new Winter Harmonies Concert Series! “American Journey” is the title of this unique performance that draws from classical and folk music, so enhance your visit to the Garden this weekend with a special live performance of music selected especially for the Holiday Train Show®.

Music is just one of many ways to appreciate NYBG in wintertime this weekend. Holiday Guides in the Haupt Conservatory illuminate the meticulous work that go into re-creating over 150 landmarks for Holiday Train Show®. Meanwhile, on grounds, this weekend’s tour schedule includes an insightful look into the historic landmarks that make up NYBG. Of course, some of the oldest and most unique fixtures here are the trees, and the Winter Wonderland Tree tour brings visitors along for a closer look at the gorgeous winter landscape.

Finally, Bar Car Nights are back tonight and tomorrow, with tickets still available for tonight, but Saturday night is sold out. Read on for details regarding tonight’s entertainment, Sunday’s live music ensemble, and seasonal activities for kids.

 

Saturday, December 6

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 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 a mix of traditional and contemporary seasonal music performed by a cappella musicians.

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.

Holiday Film Screenings: Polar Express (2004)–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 7

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.

Flora Illustrata Tour – 11 a.m.
Meet at the Library Building, 6th floor
The renowned LuEsther T. Mertz Library of The New York Botanical Garden counts among its holdings many of the most beautiful and pioneering botanical and horticultural works ever created. More than eight centuries of knowledge, from the twelfth century to the present, are represented in the Library’s Collection.

Winter Wonderland Tree Tour – 12:30 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 Film Screenings: Christmas in Connecticut (1945) – 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

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 a mix of traditional and contemporary seasonal music performed by a cappella musicians.

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.
“American Journey” with the Cassatt String Quartet
In Ross Hall
Concerts with leading artists provide a warm respite from the winter cold along with lovely musical interludes during your visit to the Holiday Train Show®. Intimate post-performance conversations with the artists—moderated by series curator and composer Laura Kaminsky—allow for unique insights into the music and the music-making process. Special Tickets Required.

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.