To show our appreciation for our colleagues at the Arboretum, FONA hosted a BBQ this week for Arboretum staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

FONA Executive Director Craven Rand is a native North Carolinian and BBQ aficionado. He and a few other volunteers manned smoker trailers at the Arboretum from Monday afternoon into Tuesday afternoon. They made 200 pounds of home-smoked pulled pork, beef short ribs, turkey, sausages, and vegetables, all of which were quickly devoured by the guests.

We appreciate all who work hard to drive the Arboretum's research mission and who make the grounds a special place to visit!

The Arboretum is open on Thanksgiving Day (and every day of the year except Christmas) from 8 AM to 5 PM. Come visit during the holidays!

Don't forget that the Blossom Bakery food truck will be set up near Arbor House and the R Street entrance this Saturday, November 19th from 10 AM to 2 PM. Enjoy a lunch or snack during your weekend visit.

We are looking for volunteers to help with our Christmas Tree Sale on December 3rd and Winter Festival on December 10th. Volunteers can help either set up trees the day before either event, or help on the day of either event.

We greatly appreciate all our volunteers who make this event possible! Fill out our survey to let us know when you're available to help.

Volunteer Survey >

Looking for children's books this holiday season? Our School Garden Support Team has compiled a list of books that highlight Latine and Indigenous cultures and mindsets about earth, food, and community.

Check Out the Children's Book List >

We send our immense gratitude to all the volunteers and seasonal staff who helped with our programs and events this year. From pulling weeds in Washington Youth Garden to checking out customers at the spring Garden Fair & Plant Sale, we were successful this year because of our dedicated volunteers. Thank you all!

Last weekend, we hosted 488 runners and walkers for our Fall 5K! Racers aged 1 to 81 enjoyed a warm fall day and changing leaves.

We had record turnout for both our Summer and Fall 5Ks this year, with a total of 850 people joining us for both events. We are excited to connect people to nature, health, and well being at the Arboretum through events like these. Keep an eye out for our 5Ks in 2023.

You can now pre-order your Christmas tree! Pick up your reserved tree and greenery at our Christmas Tree Sale on December 3rd or the Winter Festival on December 10th. Or you can have your tree delivered straight to your home.

You must select "Friends of the National Arboretum" as the fundraising partner at checkout to ensure your purchase supports FONA.

Pre-Order Your Christmas Tree & Greenery >

Christmas Tree Sale

December 3, 10 AM - 4 PM

Shop holiday greenery

Details & Tree Info >

Winter Festival

December 10, 10 AM - 4 PM

Local vendors, holiday greenery, and free family activities

Details & Tickets >

Forest Bathing

Various dates and times

Meditation and mindfulness

Purchase Your Ticket >