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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2026

Events & Programs Education at New England Botanic Garden is supported by endowed funds including the Alden Trust Education Fund, B.A. Booth Fund, Cary Brothers Fund, Frances E. and Rachel E. McQuaid Trust, Helen Stoddard Fund, June C. Havens Education Fund, and Paul Rogers Endowed Fund.

Program Registration For program details or to register, visit “LEARN” at nebg.org. Questions? Contact our Registrar at registrar@nebg.org or 508-869-6111 x174.

Adult Programs Gardening & Horticulture Fall Horticulture Walk & Talk NEBG STAFF

Join the Garden’s own botanical experts for a seasonal walk and talk and uncover the quiet magic of the season including late blooms, seed heads, and early winter textures. Wednesday, November 4, 11am–12pm $5 M; $32 NM

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Garden Design: The Art of Perennial Planting Wednesday, November 4, 11 & 18 10am–2pm MARIA VON BRINCKEN

Refine your garden vision and turn your favorite perennials into a cohesive, season-long design. In this three-part series, learn to expand on the use of color palettes, plant combinations, and layout techniques to create a flower garden that blooms from spring through fall. $249 M; $289 NM

Introduction to Permaculture Design

SAVE THE DATE

LUCY SMITH & NATHAN FOURNIER, Reimagined Roots

Urban Tree Symposium

Explore the ethics and principles of permaculture design and learn how to view your property as a connected living system rather than a collection of individual garden beds. This practical workshop will help lead you to better design decisions, healthier ecosystems, and landscapes that require less work over time. Sunday, November 8, 10am–12pm $45 M; $60 NM

The Growth of Trees: A Journey Through Time MICHAEL WOJTECH

Discover how trees grow, reproduce, and interact with their environment across days, weeks, seasons, and years and over varying scales—from the intricate details of buds, flowers, leaves, and bark that we use for species identification to the collaborative roles of trees in ecosystems. Sunday, November 15, 10am–1pm

Friday, February 26, 2027 9am–4pm

Join us for the 29th Annual Urban Tree Symposium and connect with passionate tree lovers, leading experts, and community changemakers. Discover groundbreaking insights on the importance of urban forests and explore innovative ways to grow and protect our green spaces. Early bird registration opens in mid-November.

$55 M; $66 NM

Subtropical Splendor: Conservatory Walk & Talk NEBG STAFF

Escape the chill and explore our subtropical conservatories on a behind the scenes tour with our conservatory staff. Discover colorful blooms, interesting foliage, and seasonal favorites that thrive all winter long. Wednesday, December 2, 11am–12pm $5 M; $32 NM

Conservation & Nature ID Birdhouse Building Workshop LUCY SMITH & NATHAN FOURNIER, Reimagined Roots

A well-built birdhouse is more than a decorative feature. Learn the basics of birdhouse design, which species commonly use nest boxes in New England, and how proper placement and maintenance support successful nesting. Build a birdhouse to take home while gaining a deeper appreciation for the important role birds play in healthy ecosystems. Saturday, December 5, 1–3pm $75 M; $90 NM PAGE 3 OF 16

Arts & Photography

$45 M; $58 NM

Stained Glass Pumpkins

Winter Wonderland Silk Painting

JUDITH ROMATELLI, Periwinkle Art & Glassworks

Prepare for the harvest with adorable three-dimensional pumpkins. You will learn basic stained-glass skills while creating fall-themed works of art perfect for your fall table or to give as gifts. Sunday, November 1, 10am–12:30pm $75 M; $90 NM

Holiday Pysanky Ornaments

ALONA POPOVA

Learn the traditional Ukrainian wax-resist method to decorate an eggshell and create a beautiful hanging holiday ornament. Thursday, November 12, 10am–1pm $66 M; $78 NM

Through the Lens: Capturing the Seasons STEVE MCGRATH

Capture the beauty of the changing seasons each month through hands-on photography guidance, creative exploration, and supportive feedback. All levels welcome. Saturday, November 14, 10am–12:30pm Sunday, December 13, 10am–12:30pm $40 M; $55 NM

Sashiko Embroidery for Beginners

LIZ IVES

Unwind, focus, and create something beautiful in this hands-on workshop dedicated to Sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique. Apply your new skills and create one-of-a-kind coasters or napkins to keep or to gift. Saturday, November 21, 10am–12pm $55 M; $66 NM

Botanical Threads: A Phenology Stitch-Along LIZ IVES

Explore plant phenology through monthly embroidery inspired by seasonal blooms. Learn simple stitches, follow nature’s rhythm, and create a beautiful year-long record in thread. Sunday, November 22 & December 13, 1–3pm $40 M; $55 NM

Winter Smartphone Photography

STEVE MCGRATH

Are you getting the most out of your smartphone camera? Learn techniques for photographing early winter textures, colors, and landscapes. Maximize your phone’s tools to highlight composition, lighting, contrast, and more.

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Saturday, November 28, 10am–1pm LIDIA MIKHAYLOVA

Create a beautiful silk painting inspired by winter flowers in this relaxing, beginner-friendly workshop. Explore color, creativity, and the magic of painting on silk while bringing a unique floral design to life. Saturday, November 28, 1–3:30pm $80 M; $96 NM

Night Lights Photography

JURGEN LOBERT

Celebrate the brilliance of the Garden’s award-winning Night Lights winter light display and learn the techniques of night photography with this year’s displays as your subjects. Thursday, December 3, 4–7pm $95 M; $115 NM

Nature Illustration: Festive Holiday Greenery CAROL SCHWARTZ

Celebrate the season by drawing a festive fir or holly bough with colored pencils, exploring highlights, shadows, and vivid botanical details. Saturday, December 5, 1–4pm $66 M; $78 NM

Chinese Brush Painting: Holiday Cards

SAU-MEI LEUNG

Immerse yourself in the world of nature-inspired Asian art. Get hands-on with “the four treasures” (ink stone, ink sticks, brush, and paper) as you learn to create beautiful holiday cards to celebrate the season. Sunday, December 6, 12:30–2:30pm $60 M; $75 NM

Holiday Lights: A Celebration in Earrings SUSAN UNDERWOOD

Create festive earrings inspired by colorful holiday lights using handmade beads and basic wire-wrapping techniques. Saturday, December 12, 10–11:30am $66 M; $78 NM

Block Print & Stitch: Botanical Tea Towels by Hand DEEPIKA PRAKASH

Create a beautiful tea towel using traditional Indian block printing and simple hand embroidery. Print your own botanical design, then enhance it with mindful stitching techniques to add texture and personality. Sunday, December 13, 1–3:30pm $66 M; $78 NM

Floral Design Thanksgiving Botanical Centerpiece SAM PARADIS, Sam’s Stems

NEW! Crafts & Cocktails Winter Series

Create, sip, and celebrate the season! Every Wednesday during Night Lights, enjoy a creative evening at the Garden with a variety of art and craft workshops, and experience our dazzling winter lights. Take home a handmade holiday gift for yourself or someone special. Each class includes Night Lights admission and one complimentary drink.

Stained Glass Ornaments JUDITH ROMATELLI, Periwinkle Art & Glassworks

Add a little sparkle to the holidays! Learn basic stained-glass techniques as you create beautiful, nondenominational ornaments—perfect for your tree, home, or gifting. Wednesday, December 2, 6–8pm $85 M; $100 NM

Holiday Chocolate Truffles VIVIANE GONTIJO, Vivilicious Chocolates

Celebrate the season and craft beautiful artisan chocolate truffles. Learn basic chocolate tempering techniques and decorate with festive toppings such as peppermint, cocoa, edible gold, and seasonal spices. Package your creations in an elegant gift box to take home or share. Wednesday, December 9, 6–8pm $98 M; $110 NM

Floral Star Ornaments

LIZ IVES

Master the art of English Paper Piecing and the precision of “fussy cutting” in our floral holiday ornament class. Learn the timeless skill of hand-sewn quilting while crafting a unique, heirloom-quality decoration for the season. Wednesday, December 16, 6–8pm $75 M; $90 NM

Pavuk Folk Art

ALONA POPOVA

Create a geometric hanging decoration from natural wheat straw while exploring a centuries-old folk craft found throughout Northern and Eastern Europe. Learn traditional construction techniques resulting in decor that symbolizes harmony, prosperity, and connection. Wednesday, December 23, 6–8PM

Bring the beauty of the harvest season to your table with a lush Thanksgiving centerpiece made from fresh, seasonal flowers and foliage. Create a one-of-a-kind arrangement in a reusable vessel—perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting. Sunday, November 22, 10:30am–12:30pm $98 M; $115 NM

Winter Globe Arrangement

CAROLYN GULBANKIAN

Capture the magic of the season under glass. Join us for a hands-on workshop to create your own wintry floral arrangement in a hurricane glass using berries, dried orange slices, and a cream-colored candle. Sunday, November 29, 10:30am–12pm $98 M; $115 NM

Holiday Wreaths

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. Saturday, December 5, 10am–12pm $135 M; $165 NM

The Magic of the Holidays in Flowers SAM PARADIS, Sam’s Stems

Bring the magic of winter indoors with an elegant seasonal arrangement. Create a lush design featuring fragrant evergreens, rich red blooms, and natural accents that add warmth and timeless style to your holiday table, mantel, or entryway. Sunday, December 6, 10am–12pm $98 M; $115 NM

Mason Jar Holiday Box

CAROLYN GULBANKIAN

This rustic centerpiece features a sturdy reusable wooden box, mason jar, boxwood, winter greens, berries, pinecones, and magnolia leaves in a square box tied with a buffalo plaid bow. Your new fragrant work of art lasts for months—well into the new year! Tuesday, December 8, 2–3:30pm $98 M; $115 NM

$85 M; $100 NM PAGE 5 OF 16

Health & Wellness Weekday Wellness Chair Yoga

KENDRA MCCUINE

Enjoy gentle yoga with a chair as a prop in our fun, indoor class. This fully supported practice offers a unique way to experience the benefits of yoga. Ideal for seniors, desk-bound professionals, those recovering from injury, or anyone with limited mobility. Tuesdays, 11:30am–12:30pm Fridays, 11am –12pm $16 M; $32 NM

Root & Rise: Mat Pilates

AUBREY ROSCOE

Join us for an accessible mat Pilates practice that meets you where you are and leaves you feeling stronger, more grounded, and at home in your body. Tuesday, November 3, 10 & 17, 6:30–7:30pm $16 M; $32 NM

Energy Healing Sound Bath in the Conservatory BRANDY LEFSYK

Relax and unwind with a one-hour sound bath in the tranquil setting of our subtropical conservatories. Soothing tones and vibrations reduce stress and promote deep relaxation to leave you feeling refreshed, centered, and at peace. Wednesday, November 4, 6–7pm $35 M; $42 NM

Shinrin-Yoku Forest Bathing at the Garden NADINE MAZZOLA

Immerse yourself in the calming beauty of the forest in this guided shinrin-yoku experience, inspired by the Japanese practice of "forest bathing." This class invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and soak in the restorative benefits of the Garden’s serene woodland. Wednesday, November 11, 10am–1pm $40 M; $55 NM

Yoga at the Garden MANDI GARRISON

Enjoy gentle-to-moderate flow yoga in a class for all levels. Thursday, November 12 & 19, 10:30–11:30am Thursday, December 3, 10 & 17, 10:30–11:30am $16 M; $32 NM

The Stillness Within: Autumn Meditation Series DANIELA SCHALLER

Experience the quiet that naturally befalls the Garden as the season transitions and as we slow down and reconnect through guided meditation. Rooted in seasonal growth, each session offers space for calm, reflection, and renewed balance. Wednesday, November 18, 6–7pm $35 M; $42 NM

Yoga for Everyone

$16 M; $32 NM

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HARPER WISE

Join us for an all-levels flow class and connect with your practice in a safe, welcoming space for movement, mindfulness, and community. Wednesday, November 18, 6–7pm

Weekend Wellness Saturday Morning Yoga RACHEL BODURTHA

Join us for Saturday morning yoga and mindful reflection to cultivate gratitude. This all-levels friendly Vinyasa flow class focuses on a breath, mind, and body connection. Saturday, November 7 & December 5, 9:30– 10:30am $16 M; $32 NM

Shinrin-Yoku Forest Bathing at the Garden NADINE MAZZOLA

Advanced Zentangle KAREN KEEFE

Dive further into the world of Zentangle and learn more complex tangles, how to blend patterns, techniques for tangulation, and how to use various Zentangle tools with different media. Sunday, November 22, 1–4:30pm $55 M; $66 NM

Intro to Zentangle KAREN KEEFE

Zentangle is an easy-to-learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns, many of them inspired by nature. It is a fascinating art form that is a fun, relaxing way to practice mindfulness. Sunday, December 6, 1–4:30pm $55 M; $66 NM

$40 M; $55 NM

Trips & Tours New England Botanic Garden is excited to partner with Collette to offer exciting travel opportunities that support the Garden!

Discover Aloha Hawaii

Embark on a journey through the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Kauai and Maui, where adventure meets tranquility. From the iconic Iao Needle to the lore of hula, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural connections, and relaxation. February 9–17, 2028

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Food & Drink Chocolate Charcuterie for the Holidays

Botanical Mixology: Winter Alchemy

VIVIANE GONTIJO, Vivilicious Chocolates

PEPPERS ARTFUL EVENTS

Create an elegant dessert board featuring artisan chocolates, dried fruits, cookies, and seasonal accompaniments. Learn the secrets of arranging a beautiful and delicious display that’s ready to serve at your holiday gatherings. Wednesday, November 11, 6–8pm $85 M; $98 NM

Botanical Mixology: Thanksgiving Cocktails PEPPERS ARTFUL EVENTS

Learn how to create delicious botanically inspired cocktails that go well with the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving, just in time to share your newfound skills for the holiday. Thursday, November 19, 6–7:30pm $66 M; $78 NM

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Celebrate the toasting season by creating holidayinspired cocktails to serve throughout winter’s festivities. Admission to Night Lights included! Thursday, December 10, 6–7:30pm $76 M; $88 NM

Gather around the table for extraordinary dining experiences inspired by plants. Each Garden Dining Series evening celebrates the Garden, local agriculture, and the art of cooking through a thoughtfully curated, multicourse menu prepared by Peppers Artful Events. The Garden Dining Series is a 21+ experience. Visit nebg.org/garden-dining-series for upcoming dinners and details.

In Good Taste

Awaken your senses with a garden dinner designed to delight from every angle. In Good Taste explores the many ways plants shape our experience of food from the fragrance of aromatic herbs and the vibrant colors of the garden to unexpected textures, satisfying crunch, and unique flavors. Each course invites guests to see, smell, touch, hear, and taste the plants on their plate, creating a playful plant-to-table experience that is truly in good taste.

Dinner by Dazzle

Step into a winter dream amid dazzling lights and savor elegant, winter-inspired dishes that warm both body and soul. Seasonal cocktails and craft mocktails, infused with the essence of winter, offer frosty delights in every sip. Admission to Night Lights included!

Monday, December 14, 6–9pm

Friday, November 13, 6–9pm PAGE 9 OF 16

Youth Programs Kids Workshops Gnome Gardens

| AGES 6 –12

Create a magical miniature garden terrarium complete with a tiny gnome. Sunday, November 1, 2:30–4pm

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, 10:30–11:30am M: $10 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $22 ADULT

Gnomeventure Walk

| AGES 3 –8

Meet our new resident gnomes, try a gnome inspired craft, and search for the Golden Gnome. Saturday, November 14, 11am–12pm

M: $25 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $35 CHILD, $22 ADULT

M: $9 CHILD, $6 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $26 ADULT

Winter Potions

Family Paint Party

| AGES 6 –10

Mix up magical winter inspired potions and conduct experiments with simple household ingredients. Sunday, December 27, 1–2:30pm

| 7+

Come create together as you each paint a wintry scene guided by step-by-step instruction. Sunday, November 22, 10:30am–12pm

M: $18 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $26 CHILD, $22 ADULT

M: $22 CHILD, $22 ADULT; NM: $32 CHILD, $42 ADULT

Snow Slime

Little Seedlings

| AGES 5 –12

Learn about the water cycle and mix up your own snow-inspired slime. Monday, December 28, 12:30–2pm M: $15 CHILD; $0 ADULT; NM: $24 CHILD, $22 ADULT

| AGES 1 –3

Come explore the wonderful world of plants and practice sorting, counting, observing, and more. Tuesday, November 24, 10:30–11:30am Tuesday, December 29, 10:30–11:30am M: $8 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $8 CHILD, $22 ADULT

Santa Storytime

| AGES 3 –10

Tell Santa your holiday wishes as we listen to a story, craft, and sing. Saturday, December 5, 2–3pm Sunday, December 20, 10:30–11:30am M: $12 CHILD, $8 ADULT; NM: $22 CHILD, $30 ADULT

Ice Princess Party

| AGES 3 –10

Join your favorite cold-weather princess for stories, crafts, songs, and autographs. Saturday, December 12, 2–3pm Monday, December 28, 10:30–11:30am M: $15 CHILD, $8 ADULT; NM: $25 CHILD, $30 ADULT

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Homeschool Programs Homeschool: Goodnight Garden

| AGES 6 –12

Help our gardeners prepare for winter, and learn about dormancy, winter planting, and protecting vulnerable plants. Friday, November 6, 1–2:30pm M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $22 ADULT

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 20, 1–2:30pm M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $22 ADULT

Homeschool: Bark Detectives

| AGES 6 –12

Become a nature detective as we identify trees by their bark patterns and make a bark creation. Friday, December 4, 1–2:30pm M: $9 CHILD, $0 ADULT; NM: $18 CHILD, $22 ADULT

Nature Play Days Join us for Nature Play Days at the Garden. Drop-in for free fun family activities this season!

Nature Storytime

| AGES 3 –8

Join us for an interactive hour in our conservatory featuring exciting stories about plants, animals, nature, and more. Tuesdays, 11am–12pm

A T H D P A S E R T I

Make your child’s birthday one to remember and host their special day with us! Now booking daytime and evening parties for winter. Visit our website for details.

Discovery Backpacks Ages 3–12 Daily, during general admission hours

Check out our Discovery Backpacks filled with exciting activities and tools for exploring together. Discovery Backpack activities change each season.

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NOVEMBER 21, 2026 through JANUARY 3, 2027 4–10pm Daily

Don’t miss the chance to experience the nation’s #1 light display! Last year, Night Lights earned the top spot in USA TODAY's 10BEST for Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights. Get ready to be swept away by half a million lights! Stroll with friends and family through winding paths where nature, fantasy, and imagination intertwine. Wrap yourself in winter wonder where every step reveals whimsical surprises and inspires new memories to last a lifetime. Visit nebg.org/nightlights for more information. PAGE 12 OF 16

DIWALI LIGHTS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 4–10PM Kick off this season of Night Lights with a special cultural celebration hosted in partnership with the India Society of Worcester. Join us in celebrating Diwali, the 'Festival of Lights.' Enjoy a wonderful evening of Indian cultural programs, delicious Indian food, local vendors, henna, and more, all set against a backdrop of thousands of lights.

NEW!

Crafts & Cocktails Winter Series

Create, sip, and celebrate the season! Every Wednesday during Night Lights, enjoy a creative evening at the Garden with a variety of art and craft workshops. Each class includes Night Lights admission and one complimentary drink. Refer to page 4 for details.

Las Posadas

In partnership with Casita Cultura Latina, experience the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of Las Posadas during Night Lights. Enjoy a variety of cultural festivities as you take in the lights and celebrate an evening of tradition and community. Wednesday, December 9, 4–10pm

Night Lights Birthday Party Packages

Celebrate your child’s special day while enjoying an evening under the lights. All evening birthday party packages include a 3-hour room rental, admission to Night Lights, an hour-long guided activity, and a makeand-take activity with a glow stick necklace.

Visit nebg.org for more information on all Night Lights related programs and activities. PAGE 13 OF 16

EVENTS

DÍA MERCADO: A POPUP VENDOR MARKET Sunday, November 1 10am-4pm

Join us in supporting local artists and celebrate Día de los Muertos with a pop-up artisan vendor market in partnership with Casita Cultura Latina. INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE

Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8 , 10am-5pm

Enjoy our Holiday Marketplace featuring some of our favorite local artists and makers offering handmade wares for sale for holiday shopping. Find special, unique and handcrafted gifts from a host of guest artisans and vendors as well as from our own well-stocked Garden Shop. INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

BUDDING MAKERS MARKET

Sunday, December 6, 10am-2pm

Join us for a kids-run vendor marketplace in partnership with Kids Markets! Shop handmade goods and unique holiday gifts while supporting the creativity, confidence, and entrepreneurial spirit of these budding business owners. INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

SAVE THE DATE!

BOOKS & BLOOMS: A BOOZY BOOK FAIR (21+) Fridays and Saturdays, January 8–16, 7-10pm

Discover the perfect midwinter escape! Spend an evening reveling in book fair nostalgia by shopping from local bookstores and artisan vendors, sipping on literary-inspired cocktails and mocktails, partaking in bookish activities, and more. Visit nebg.org for more information.

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EXHIBITIONS SAVE THE DATE!

November 1–30

Come be part of the magic this Gnomevember! The gnomes are back with new secrets to share. Scattered in their favorite hiding places throughout the Garden, these whimsical figures are just waiting to be found. Each one is a unique creation by a talented local artist, brought to life with its own special charm and story. Come explore, spot their clever hiding spots, and see if you can discover them all! Visit nebg.org for more details.

LUMINOUS: AN ORCHID EXHIBITION February 6 – March 21, 2027

Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise at our annual orchid exhibition. Discover thousands of blooming orchids, vibrant colors, and captivating designs woven together in a spectacular celebration of color and light. Wander through subtropical conservatories transformed into a dazzling floral oases with breathtaking displays and botanical wonders around every turn.

Orchid Exhibition Opening Weekend Saturday and Sunday, February 6 & 7, 10am-4pm Orchids After Dark (21+) Friday and Saturday evenings, February 12 - March 13

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Love grows here Now booking weddings for the 2026 season. nebg.org

Holiday Parties That Shine

Enhance your corporate or social holiday party with a touch of magic by pairing it with Night Lights for a truly festive experience. Visit nebg.org for details.

INFO@NEBG.ORG

508.869.6111

NEBG.ORG

11 FRENCH DRIVE

P.O. BOX 598, BOYLSTON, MA 01505