We look forward to welcoming you to Branches in Bloom, a spring festival celebrating Arbor Day at Planting Fields. This email provides important details for guests traveling via our shuttle service.


Spring is one of the most magical times at Planting Fields, when magnolias, flowering cherries, and other spring trees are in bloom, transforming the landscape into a vibrant display of color. The festival is centered on the West Lawn near the Main House and offers a chance to explore the gardens at their most spectacular moment of the year.


For the first time, visiting Planting Fields from the Oyster Bay Train Station is simple and stress free. Guests may take the LIRR to Oyster Bay and enjoy shuttle service directly to the festival site, just a short ride to Planting Fields, with no need for driving or parking. This option also provides an opportunity to explore the Village of Oyster Bay, which features local restaurants and shops within walking distance of the station.


As we look ahead on the current weather forecast for this weekend guests are welcome to attend on Sunday instead of their originally scheduled day. Should you wish to make this change, we kindly ask that you notify us in advance so we can plan accordingly. Please email us at info@plantingfields.org

 

Before You Arrive (What to Know)

– Shuttle service is available only to guests who have purchased Shuttle & Save tickets

– Guests will be asked to show proof of train ticket prior to boarding the shuttle

Please plan ahead: Guests are responsible for securing their own train tickets and staying aware of train departure times.

– Wristbands are required for entry into all festival areas and activities

– This is an outdoor event and will take place rain or shine

– The grounds include paved paths, gravel, and grassy areas – comfortable shoes are strongly recommended

 Food trucks will be onsite with menu selections for guests to purchase

– Main House will be open for self-guided tours

Not included in admission: $15 general admission, $14 seniors (62+), $5 children (ages 6 – 17), children ages 5 and under are free.

– The last entry for the Kids Tree Climb is 2:30pm

– If you require accessibility accommodations, please contact us in advance so we can assist, email info@plantingfields.org or call 516-922-9210, ext. 300

 

Arrival + Check In

– Take the LIRR to the Oyster Bay Train Station

– Follow signage to the designated Planting Fields shuttle pickup area

– Present your registration confirmation to receive your wristband

– If you cannot locate your ticket, staff can verify your registration using the purchaser’s last name – Shuttle service runs directly between Oyster Bay Station and festival entrance (approximately 5 minutes)


What to Expect

– Peak spring blossoms throughout the landscape

– Guided tours of the magnolias and blooming cherries

– Self-guided tours of the Main House (not included in admission)

– Kids Tree Climb with Wonderland Tree Care + Landscapes

Weather permitting; last entry is 2:30pm.

– Garden Railway presented by the Long Island Railway Society

 Live music, performances, and family entertainment

– Food trucks and picnic areas, with food available for purchase

Featured Food Trucks include Dilly Dilly Donuts, Monarch Foods, Royal BBQ and Groovy Smoothie.


See the festival's map & guide here!


Shuttle Schedule: 10:30am – 4:30pm

– Shuttle runs every 30 minutes between the Oyster Bay Station and Planting Fields

– Final shuttle departing from Planting Fields is 4:30pm


Explore Oyster Bay Village Shops

Make the most of your visit by discovering some of Oyster Bay’s favorite local spots. Below is a list of some of our favorite places! Click the titles to visit their websites and learn more:

Southdown Coffee

Sweet Tomato

Beach Bird

2 Spring

Wild Honey

Oyster Bay Brewing Company


We look forward to welcoming you to Branches in Bloom and sharing a beautiful spring day together at Planting Fields!


If you should have any questions or need any assistance, please email info@plantingfields.org or call 516-922-9210, ext. 300.

Thank you to our Branches in Bloom partners and sponsors!

SPRINGING INTO THE SEASON

2026 Spring 5K

Saturday, May 23 | 7:30 – 11am | All ages and abilities welcome!



7:30am – Registration Opens

8:30am – 5K Walk/Run Race

$40 Early Bird Rate (through Apr. 25) | $45 after Apr. 25 | $50 day of race

9:30am – Kids Fun Run (1/2 mile)

$20 Early Bird Rate (through Apr. 25) | $25 after Apr. 25 | $30 day of race


Experience the beauty of Planting Fields like never before! Run, jog, or walk through stunning Olmsted Brothers–designed landscapes, past iconic gates and fields awash in spring color. 


This year, your steps support the forthcoming Oudolf Garden, a new, breathtaking horticultural masterpiece opening fall 2026 at Planting Fields. Join us for an energizing morning outdoors and be part of Long Island’s next must-see garden experience! 


Group rates and sponsorships are available, please contact Stewardship Director, Lilly McGurk, at lmcgurk@plantingfields.org.


Register early and save – click here now!


This event is supported by a grant from Empire State Development and I Love NY.