an aerial view of a tree with bursting orange and green leaves

Fall Forest Weekends

November 2, 3, 9, & 10, 2024

11 a.m.–4 p.m. | At the Garden

Your Local Leafer HQ

The Thain Family Forest—New York City’s largest remaining tract of old-growth woodland—is your fall foliage headquarters! Leaf locally and explore the Forest’s 50 acres full of vibrant fall color–a front row seat to the best views of the season right at home.

Food and drink are available for purchase during your visit at the Pine Tree Café, Looking Glass, and Hudson Garden Grill. Pick up an apple cider or hot chocolate to keep you warm during your exploration of the Thain Family Forest and other living collections.

A cascading display of pink and white chrysanthemums in an ozukuri display.

Explore the Japanese tradition of Kiku

November 2–17

Don’t miss a spotlight on kiku displays in the Nolen Greenhouses, featuring Japanese chrysanthemums that have been expertly trained over the past 11 months into modern and ancient styles, offering color up close with these fall-favorite blooms. Seasonal chrysanthemums in warm, rich hues complement this must-see spectacle.

Learn More

A woman in a blue wrap dress and large shell earrings looks at the camera as she walks with a basket of foraged plants worn on her back

Foraged Flavors with Holistic Health Practitioner Journei Bimwala

Saturdays & Sundays, November 2, 3, 9, & 10
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Main Entrance to the Thain Family Forest

While the Thain Family Forest does not permit active foraging, holistic health practitioner Journei Bimwala presents an interactive display of pre-foraged fall bounty found in forests like ours. Sample a seasonal beverage and test your taste buds by identifying the foraged tasting notes within the drink.

Photo of garden trees in fall

Volunteer-Led Tree Planting

Registration Required: 1 – 3 p.m.
Sunday, November 3 Only
Meet at the Main Entrance to the Thain Family Forest

Join the NYBG Forest Staff and their conservation efforts to plant more native trees and fill in the canopy. Volunteers at this event will help plant young trees or shrubs in forested areas of the Garden. Participation is recommended for ages 10 and up. Group size is limited to 15 people, and will participation will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Instructions will be communicated via email prior to the event.

Please dress for the weather, wear comfortable footwear, and note that the Forest terrain can be rocky or uneven.

Registration is now closed.

A group of people enjoy a tour through a bright green forest

Mini Hike

Saturdays & Sundays, November 2, 3, 9, & 10
11 a.m. – 4 p.m
Self-Guided

This mini loop of the lush Thain Family Forest is estimated to last about 5-10 minutes, depending on the mini hiker’s pace. Our staff will be waiting to award a stamp when you’ve completed your hike!

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