This Weekend: Colors of the Forest
Posted in Programs and Events on November 13 2015, by Matt Newman
This Saturday and Sunday mark the last of our Fall Forest Weekends, because while it’s still technically fall, we’ve got the Holiday Train Show on the horizon—and all the twinkling winter settings that come with it.
In the meantime, we’re still enjoying the fireworks of autumn, especially in the Forest. Stop in this weekend to join us for terrarium building demos, woodcarving with Ivan Braun, canoe trips on the Bronx River (the only freshwater river in New York City!) and all of the incredible color you’ve come to expect from this urban oasis.
Next weekend’s long-awaited Holiday Train Show grand opening will bring along all sorts of activities, whether you’re looking to explore with the whole family during the day or spend an evening at the Garden during Bar Car Nights. Tickets to the exhibition and the special events that come with it are available now, so don’t miss out on your preferred date!
Saturday & Sunday, November 14–15
Citizen Science at the Garden — 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Throughout the Forest
NYBG volunteers have been tracking the tree cycles of leaf, flower, and fruit development for more than 5 years. They will help you look closer at the trees within the Forest, giving you an entirely new perspective from the trails. Get help with tree and plant identification so you can explore the trees in your neighborhood more closely. Learn more about how you can be part of this ongoing project at Citizen Science.
Terrarium Building Demonstration — 11 a.m. (Saturday only)
Across from the Native Plant Garden entrance
Learn how to build your very own mini-ecosystem! This do it yourself project is fun, affordable, and versatile. Maria Colletti, Manager at NYBG Shop, will show you how to decorate your living space with a stylish and fun terrarium. Book signing to follow.
Woodcrafting Demonstration — 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Near the Thain Family Forest entrance along Azalea Way
Watch Ivan Braun create unique wooden bowls created from fallen trees of the Garden and learn about the art and value of this craft. Take home one of his unique creations from NYBG Shop.
Tree Climbing Demonstration by our Arborists — 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m.
Near the Thain Family Forest entrance on Azalea Way
Find out what it is like to take care of the Forest trees! Watch an arborist climb to amazing heights and get a new perspective on the Garden. Their job is important for maintaining healthy trees.
Canoe Trips on the Bronx River — 11 a.m., 12, 1, 2, & 3 p.m.
Limited spaces available; first-come, first-served basis
Enjoy a short paddle on the Bronx River with the Bronx River Alliance and experience the beauty of this reclaimed local gem, home to an incredible variety of fish, birds, and even beaver! The Alliance works toward the conservation of the river as an ecological, economic, and community resource.
Bird-Boxing Performance — 12 & 2 p.m.
Across from the Native Plant Garden entrance
Amateur bird-boxer Ben Mirin entertains with a twist on traditional bird calling, integrating modern beat boxing into his way of attracting birds. He creates music exclusively from bird songs and other sounds that occur in nature: trees are drums, swans are trumpets, warblers are cymbals, and more! Stop by his booth to enjoy original performances of this unique music style.
Birds of Prey Demonstrations — 1 & 3 p.m.
Across from the Native Plant Garden entrance
Hawks, owls, and falcons deftly swoop through the air, alert for prey. Their unique design and deadly weapons place them on top of the food chain. Learn how to identify these birds while gaining a greater understanding about their adaptations and habitats.
Tours of the Thain Family Forest — 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m.
Meet at the Forest Orientation Point
Themed discovery walks of the Forest take place throughout each day. Wear comfortable shoes and seasonal attire for the weather.
Children’s Programs
For Families: Tree-rific Trees — 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Visit the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden to see the enormous tree cookies of a giant sequoia and a white oak and participate in other hands-on fun. Dig deeper into the magnificent world of fall trees, from roots to branches. Learn to think like a scientist and track the changing colors of the leaves. Take a break from your research to count the rings of a giant sequoia!
