NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024
Program Registration
For the most up-to-date information about our programs, or to register, please visit the calendar section of our website.
For questions about programs or registration please contact our Registrar at registrar@nebg.org, or at 508-869-6111 x174.
Weekday Wellness
Chair Yoga
Using a chair as a prop, come and have fun while enjoying the benefits of movement in this gentle yoga class.
Tuesdays in November 11:30am–12:30pm | REBECCA REBER
Fridays in November 11am –12pm | EMMA BARTOLINI
PER CLASS: $17 M; $30 NM
Yoga in the Garden MANDI GARRISON
Enjoy gentle-to-moderate flow yoga in a class for all levels.
Tuesdays, 6–7:15pm
Thursdays, 10:30–11:45am
PER CLASS: $17 M; $30 NM
Qigong & Tai Chi Movement ROSE HORWITZ
Breathe deeply and practice gentle, fluid, mindful movements to reduce stress and improve strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, range of motion, and stamina.
Wednesdays, 10:15–11:45am
PER CLASS: $26 M; $36 NM
Relaxing Yoga Flow EMMA BARTOLINI
Start your Friday morning with a mindful yoga flow which incorporates synchronization of breath and mindful movement while exploring postures to build strength, balance, and stability, to find peace within our morning.
Fridays in November, 9:30–10:30am
PER CLASS: $17 M; $30 NM
Energy Healing Sound Bath BRANDY LEFSYK
Experience deep relaxation and tranquility during this sound bathing program in the warm and serene atmosphere of our subtropical conservatory.
Wednesday, November 13, 9–10am
Wednesday, December 11, 9–10am
$40 M; $55 NM
Weekend Wellness
November Relaxing Yoga for Gratitude
EMMA BARTOLINI
Come enjoy a calming morning yoga flow to cultivate and celebrate the gratitude within us.
Saturday, November 9, 9–10:15am
$17 M; $30 NM
‘Shinrin-Yoku’ Japanese Forest Bathing
NADINE MAZZOLA
Relax and refresh through mindfulness practices and sensory awareness while experiencing the beauty of nature at the Garden.
Sunday, November 10, 1– 4pm
$40 M; $55 NM
Gentle Yoga & Yoga Nidra LINDA SNAY
Renew body, mind, and spirit with this extended and revitalizing yoga session. Participants will experience the balancing effects of both strong and gentle yoga practices.
Saturday, November 16, 9–11am
$30 M; $40 NM
Introduction to Zentangle KAREN KEEFE
Learn the basic principles and methodology of Zentangle. This easy-to-learn method of drawing creates beautiful images from repetitive patterns, many of them inspired by nature.
Sunday, November 17, 1–4:30pm
$45 M; $60 NM
Giving Gratitude in Your Yoga Practice LISA MOORE
Reflect on gratitude as we guide you through three simple steps to release tension, calm the mind, and conclude with a soothing savasana and meditation.
Saturday, November 23, 9:30–10:30am
$17 M; $30 NM
December Relaxing Yoga for the Light Within
EMMA BARTOLINI
Enjoy a rejuvenating yoga practice to cultivate the warmth and light within as we transition into the darkest months.
Saturday, December 7, 9–10:15am
$17 M; $30 NM
Winter Solstice Yoga Mini-Retreat
MANDI GARRISON
Immerse yourself in this mini yoga retreat. The retreat will include time with your yoga practice, a lecture, journaling, meditation, and guided relaxation.
Saturday, December 14, 9:30am–12:30pm
$40 M; $55 NM
Winter Sunrise Yoga MANDI GARRISON
This tranquil session in one of the Garden’s conservatories offers a perfect escape before the holiday season begins, featuring gentle postures and mindful breathing to celebrate the return of longer nights. All levels are welcome.
Saturday, December 21, 9am–10:30am
$18 M; $20 NM SAVE THE DATE!
Urban Tree Symposium 2025 Friday, February 7, 2025, 9am–4:30pm
New England Botanic Garden’s annual Urban Tree Symposium explores the importance of urban forests and ways we can improve our green spaces.
Early bird registration starts in December. Check nebg.org for the most up-to-date information regarding speakers and registration information.
Learn about night photography during Night Lights with Jürgen Lobert on Tuesday, December 3
Gardening & Horticulture
Fall Tree Identification Walk ALEX KLEIN
As trees lose their green chlorophyll in the fall, we get to see the colors they have been hiding underneath all summer. Often, we can differentiate species of trees by their fall foliage, or spot interloping vines that have otherwise disguised themselves in the canopy all year. Join us for one last glorious walk amongst the trees this season as the leaves bid us farewell.
Sunday, November 3, 1–3pm
$40 M; $55 NM
Autumn Horticulturist Walk & Talk
HUNTER BLANCHARD, NEBG STAFF
Join one of NEBG’s own horticulture experts for a seasonal walk and talk focused on what’s in bloom and fall favorites from the Garden’s collections.
Wednesday, November 6, 11am–12pm
Wednesday, December 4, 11am–12pm
$15 M; $30 NM
Home Gardener Series:
Dormant Pruning Workshop REED PUGH
This workshop will dive into the art of dormant pruning, focusing on deciduous trees and shrubs. Learn techniques to enhance plant structure and prevent winter damage.
Sunday November 24, 10:30am–12pm or 1–2:30pm
$40 M; $55 NM
Visual Arts
Watercolors in the Conservatory
VICTORIA CHAPMAN
Escape the cold and immerse yourself in the lush greenery of our subtropical conservatories. Join us in the Orangerie to paint the vibrant seasonal flora using watercolors.
Wednesday, November 6, 1–3:30pm
$65 M; $78 NM
Monthly Photography Walk STEVE MCGRATH
Follow your passion and practice your skill with expert advice and personalized attention. All skill levels welcome.
Saturday, November 9, 10am–12:30pm
Saturday, December 14, 10am–12:30pm
$40 M; $55 NM
Poinsettia Care 101: Keeping the Holiday
Drama Queen Alive ALYSON PROKOP, NEBG STAFF
Struggling to keep your poinsettia alive past New Year’s? Join us for a fun and practical workshop designed for beginners to master the art of keeping this holiday favorite (and many others) healthy and happy all season long! Tea/coffee and snacks provided.
Wednesday, November 13, 6–8pm
$45 M; $54 NM
Online & Hybrid Series: Mastering Photography
STEVE MCGRATH
Join our three-part series of photography workshops that blend online theory sessions, an in-person walk with one-to-one conversation, and an online sharing and critique class. Explore smartphone techniques, master composition, and engage in interactive critiques to enhance your photography skills.
SERIES 3: AUTUMN COLORS & LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY
November 14: Online Theory Class, 6 –7:30pm
November 16: Outdoor Photography Walk, 10am –12:30pm
November 22: Online Critique Class, 6–7:30pm
SERIES 4: MACRO AND CLOSE-UP PHOTOGRAPHY
December 4: Online Theory Class, 6 –8pm
December 7: Outdoor Photography Walk,10am –12:30pm
December 11: Online Critique Class, 6–8pm
$185 M; $225 NM
Night Lights Nighttime Photography JÜRGEN LOBERT
Learn about night photography during our lighted evening event series, Night Lights! You will start with a one-hour lecture on night photography, followed by a two-hour outdoor photo shoot at night. Class registration includes admission to Night Lights, refreshments, and snacks.
Tuesday, December 3, 3:30–6:30pm
$105 M, $126 NM
Holiday Make & Take Workshops
Join us for a series of festive programs and floral design workshops where you can create unique, handcrafted gifts to share with loved ones. Enjoy cozy indoor sessions with tea, coffee, and pastries as you make beautiful and personalized holiday items to take home. All materials, supplies, and tools included.
Handprinted Winter Wrapping Paper and Holiday Cards ALYSON PROKOP, NEBG STAFF
Begin your linocut journey in a relaxed and fun environment as you learn to use the tools, create and carve your own designs, and produce beautiful wrapping paper and holiday cards.
Saturday, November 9, 1–3pm
$45 M; $49.50 NM
Embroidered Gifts: Winter Bird Ornaments
LIZ IVES, NEBG STAFF
Learn the basics of hand embroidery with a focus on winter birds to brighten your home. Open to beginners as well as experienced embroiderers.
Sunday, November 10, 10:30am –12:30pm
$50 M; $55 NM
Needle Felted Holiday Ornaments LISA MAGNUSON
Learn the art of needle felting to create charming, handmade ornaments that make perfect gifts or festive decorations. No prior experience is necessary.
Thursday, November 7, 6–8:30pm
$70 M; $85 NM
Poinsettia Blooms: Hand-painting Silk
LIDIA MIKHAYLOVA
Celebrate the season with a hands-on workshop, handpainting a 14” x 14” silk kerchief or wall decor inspired by vibrant poinsettias. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and love for botanical beauty.
Class Size: Maximum of 8 students. Register early!
Sunday, November 17, 10:30am –1:30pm
$70 M; $77 NM
Gnome Sweet Gnome: Paint Your Own
Garden Keeper LINDA SNAY
Create your own mini garden gnome in this fun painting workshop for tweens and adults! Enjoy gnome-sized treats while bringing your gnome to life with paint.
Tuesday, November 12, 6–8:30pm
$65 M; $78.50 NM
Floral Design
Holiday Wreath Making with Bluebird Bouquets
HALEY CORMIER, BLUEBIRD BOUQUETS
Use a variety of fresh foliage, flowers, and decorations to create the perfect holiday wreath to adorn your door, wall, or table in Bluebird Bouquets’ signature asymmetrical style.
Sunday, November 24
9:30–11:30am or 12:45–2:45pm
$105 M; $115.50 NM; PAIR: $189 M; $205 NM
Winter Holiday Floral Arrangement
MARY BETH HAYES, SEMPER VIRENS FLOWERS
Deck the halls with dazzling winter florals! Join us for a festive floral design workshop where you’ll craft a breathtaking holiday arrangement bursting with seasonal blooms and lush greenery. Infuse your home with festive charm and sparkle—this is the perfect way to celebrate the season in style! Great for gifting or brightening your own home.
Sunday, December 15, 11am–1pm
$85 M; $95 NM
Forcing Bulbs: Amaryllis and Paperwhites
HUNTER BLANCHARD, NEBG STAFF
Get ready for the holiday season by learning how to force amaryllis and paperwhite bulbs with the guidance of the Garden’s expert horticulture staff. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create beautiful displays to brighten your home or give as gifts.
Tuesday, November 5, 6–8pm
$95 M; $105 NM; PAIR: $175 M; $185 NM
Winter Solstice Celebration
SAM PARADISE, SAM’S STEMS S & ALYSON PROKOP, NEBG STAFF
Celebrate the winter solstice with nature’s beauty, creativity, and cheer! Embrace the season’s charm by crafting a beautiful floral crown centerpiece with seasonal and dried blooms, and pour your own beeswax candle to take home.
Saturday, December 21, 11am –2:30pm
$95 M; $105.50 NM
Family Fun
Garden Buds | AGES 3–5
Join us for circle time, a story, a take-home craft packet, and a guided garden adventure.
Wednesdays in November & December,10:30–11:30am
Saturday, December 28, 10:30–11:30am
M: $8 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $16 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Gnomeventure Walk | AGES 3–8
Meet our new resident gnomes, try a gnome inspired craft, and search for the Golden Gnome.
Saturday, November 2, 11am–12pm
Sunday, November 17, 2-3pm
M: $9 CHILD, $6 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $24 ADULT
Little Seedlings | AGES 1–3
Come explore the wonderful world of plants and practice sorting, counting, observing, and more.
Tuesday, November 19, 10:30–11:30am
Tuesday, December 17, 10:30–11:30am
M: $6 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $6 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Santa Storytime | AGES 3–10
Tell Santa your holiday wishes as we listen in on a story, craft, and sing.
Saturday, December 14, 2–3pm
Sunday, December 21, 12–1pm
M: $12 CHILD, $8 ADULT; NM: $20 CHILD, $26 ADULT
Ice Princess Party | AGES 4–8
Join your favorite cold-weather princess for stories, crafts, songs, and autographs.
Saturday, December 8, 12–1pm
Friday, December 27, 1–2pm
M: $12 CHILD, $8 ADULT; NM: $20 CHILD, $26 ADULT
Family Paint Party | AGES 7 +
Come create together as you each paint a sunset landscape guided by step-by-step instruction.
Monday, December 30, 1:30–3pm
M: $20 CHILD, $20 ADULT
NM: $30 CHILD, $40 ADULT
Kids Workshops
Veggie Stamp Studio | AGES 5–9
Learn about different types of vegetables and use them to create colorful paper prints.
Saturday, November 2, 2–3:30pm
M: $12 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $20 CHILD, $20 ADULT
No-Sew Gnomes | AGES 7–12
Use no-sew techniques to create your own mischievous plush gnome companion.
Sunday, November 10, 2:30–4pm
M: $20 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $28 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Snow Globe Ornaments | AGES 7–12
Create three globe ornaments complete with natural materials and a miniature animal.
Saturday, December 1, 1:30–3pm
M: $22 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $30 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Winter Potions | AGES 6–10
Mix up magical winter-inspired potions and conduct experiments with simple household ingredients.
Friday, December 27, 10:30am –12pm
M: $18 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $26 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Woodland Winter Crowns | AGES 8–12
Create a woodland-inspired frosted flower crown with faux evergreen and flowers that will last all season long.
Saturday, December 28, 1–2:30pm
M: $22 CHILD, $0 ADULT; $30 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Snow Buddies | AGES 7–12
Use no-sew techniques to create your own adorable stuffed snowman plushie.
Sunday, December 29, 10–11:30am
M: $20 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $28 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Homeschool Programs
Homeschool: Art & Nature | AGES 6–12
Explore colors, patterns, and shapes in nature as we hike the trails and create nature-inspired art along the way.
Friday, November 1, 1–2:30pm
M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Homeschool: Gnome Naturalists | AGES 6–12
Search for our garden gnomes and learn about their animal and plant inspired abilities.
Friday, November 15, 1–2:30pm
M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT
Homeschool: Hibernation Hike | AGES 6–12
Roam the trails as we explore the different types of hibernation and understand how animals survive the winter.
Friday, December 6, 1–2:30pm
M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $20 ADULT
School Programs
New England Botanic Garden offers a wide range of educational programs to engage children of all ages in hands-on, minds-on outdoor learning. From gardens to trails, there is so much to discover in our outdoor classroom! Now booking for spring.
Available every day 10am–5pm | AGES 3–12
Check out our Discovery Backpacks filled with exciting activities and tools for exploring together. Stop by the front desk to borrow a backpack during your next visit.
B I R P A R T I E S T H D AY
Make your child’s birthday one to remember and host their special day with us! Now booking for daytime and evening parties this winter. Visit our website for details.
DAYTIME PARTY PACKAGES
Available for booking during daytime admission hours. Select from five unique party packages that include a room rental for up to three hours, a guided one-hour long program for up to 15 children, and admission for an additional 15 adults.
NEW! NIGHT LIGHTS PARTY PACKAGES
Celebrate your child’s special day while enjoying an evening under the lights. All evening birthday party packages include admission to our evening event, Night Lights, and an hour-long guided activity.
Snow Slime Party
Learn about life in the arctic and how animals can survive the freezing cold and mix up your own sticky, sparkly snowball slime.
Winter Potions Party
Celebrate with us as we experiment, concoct, and cast spells to mix up your own magical winter potions in this hands-on workshop.
GNOMEVEMBER
NOVEMBER 1–30
The gnomes are back and more mischievous than ever. Visiting from near and far, our sneaky garden gnomes have taken up residence in some of their favorite hiding spots around the Garden. Search for all of our garden gnomes and uncover their unique stories.
Come be part of the magic this Gnomevember!
Visit nebg.org for more details.
PAUL E. ROGER'S LECTURE
Life of a Plantsman with Matt Mattus
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 11am
Join us for the annual Paul E. Rogers Lecture, featuring renowned plantsman and author Matt Mattus. This year, Matt will share his deep expertise in horticulture and innovative gardening practices, drawing from his extensive experience and passion for plants. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of today’s leading voices in horticulture! Pre-registration is required for this FREE event. Limited tickets available.
Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts Show
Learn more about horticulture and floral design while enjoying beautiful, artistic floral arrangements, horticultural specimens, and educational exhibits displayed by expert gardeners and growers in the New England region.
Friday, November 1, 10am–5pm
Saturday, November 2, 10am–5pm
Sunday, November 3, 10am–4pm
INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION
SAVE THE DATE! PIXELS
& PETALS An Orchid Exhibition
FEBRUARY 8 – MARCH 16, 2025
Save the date for our annual orchid exhibition. Warm up in our subtropical conservatories and enjoy thousands of colorful orchids.
PHOTOS
