Fall Forest Weekends

Explore the Thain Family Forest, the largest remaining tract of old-growth forest in New York City, and immerse yourself in the magnificent colors of fall foliage. Tree-climbing demonstrations, guided tours, and more.

On both weekends, themed discovery walks will take place throughout the day, covering such subjects as fall foliage and the birds and ecology of the Forest. Citizen scientist volunteers, who track the cycles of leafing, flowering, and fruit development of many Forest trees, will help visitors look more closely at trees and gain a greater understanding of plant life. Also, experts will offer tips about how to recycle garden trimmings and food scraps into compost.
In addition, the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden will host TREE-rific Trees, in which a series of guided activities will help children get to know trees from roots to branches.

Tours of the Thain Family Forest

November 3 & 4 and 10 & 11
Themed discovery walks of the Forest take place throughout the day. Wear comfortable shoes and seasonal attire for the weather.

11 a.m. Birds of the Forest with Debbie Becker
12:30 p.m. Natural History of the Thain Family Forest
1 p.m. Forest Forays for Families
2:30 p.m. Fall Foliage Tour
3 p.m. Forest Ecology

Citizen Science at the Garden

November 3 & 4 and 10 & 11; 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
NYBG volunteers have been tracking the tree cycles of leaf, flower, and fruit development for more than five years. Look closer at the trees within the Forest and gain a whole new perspective from this vantage point. Get help with tree and plant identification and be able to explore the trees in your neighborhood.

Compost Q&A

November 3 & 4 and 10 & 11; 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Take home some tips from the NYC Compost Project on how to recycle garden trimmings and food scraps into a nutritious amendment for garden soil.

Birding at the Garden

November 3 & 4 and 10 & 11; 12–4 p.m.
The Thain Family Forest is an important habitat for birds and animals as well as being a beautiful, quiet retreat. Learn about what birds and animals call the Forest home from Debbie Becker, who has been leading tours at the Garden for more than 25 years.

Home Gardening Demonstration: Forest Foray

November 3 & 4 only; 2 p.m.
Fancy a walk in the woods? Join Gardener for Public Education Sonia Uyterhoeven as she guides you through the Thain Family Forest discussing the restoration process of the woodland and providing pointers for your own woodland gardens.

Tree-Climbing Demonstration by an Arborist

November 10 & 11 only; 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m.
Find out what it is like to take care of the trees of the Forest. Watch an arborist climb to new heights and get a new perspective on the Garden. Their job is important for maintaining healthy trees.