Veterans and active duty service members are an important part of our FONA and DMV communities. Thanks to support from the National Environmental Education Foundation, FONA is offering an array of events and programming this fall that are either designed specifically for veterans, or offer discounts for veterans to attend. 

These activities focus on connecting veterans directly to nature, which is known to have massive physical and mental health benefits. These events are not only open to veterans, but also to the general public. We hope to see you at some (or all) of the following activities this fall:

Gorgeous fall colors will soon grace the leaves of D.C. trees. According to the Smoky Mountains 2024 Fall Foliage Prediction Map, the D.C. region might reach peak foliage in mid to late October. Since the National Arboretum is a living museum of trees, the huge diversity of trees growing here change colors at different times throughout fall. We recommend making multiple trips to the Arboretum throughout the season to see how the landscape changes as different species reach their peak color.

While the Smoky Mountains Prediction Map is not 100% accurate, it has a feature that allows users to report fall foliage in their area to help improve data.

Explore the Prediction Map >

"Tree-sure" hunts are a great activity for children to notice the subtle differences of trees around them. A tree-sure hunt combines the fun of a treasure hunt — in this case looking for different types of trees — with the opportunity to learn more about trees.

Max Skoglund, FONA's Volunteer Coordinator & Garden Educator, recently shared a step-by-step guide with school garden educators on how to facilitate a tree-sure hunt for students. However, this is a great and easy activity to do with kids at home, too!

How to Plan a Tree-sure Hunt >

Our September member social is open to all, not just FONA members! Drop by The Girl & The Vine in Takoma Park, MD next Wednesday, September 25th from 5 PM to 7 PM for happy hour and a bite to eat. Connect with others who share a love of the National Arboretum while enjoying a natural wine (or tasty mocktail) and a thoughtful bite to eat.

A portion of all purchases — including all takeout orders — will be donated to FONA. Simply order at the counter and mention this fundraiser. No registration is necessary for this casual, family-friendly, drop-in event.

We want to hear from you about this year's extended evening hours. This spring and summer, we piloted monthly extended evening hours at the Arboretum that were free and open to all. During these events, the Arboretum stayed open until 8 PM, rather than closing at 5 PM.

We want to continue offering extended hours in 2025, and are applying to funding opportunities to make this possible. Please fill out this short survey to let us know what you thought of this year's extended evening hours.

Complete the Survey >

Volunteer Morning for National Public Lands Day

September 28, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Volunteer event for service members, veterans, and their families in WYG

Learn More & Register >

National Public Lands Day

September 28, 11 AM - 1 PM

Free family activities in WYG

Learn More & Register >

SoulFULL Vegan Fest

October 13, 11 AM - 4:30 PM

Plant-based food, live music, speakers

Learn More & Register >

Bulb Sale & Garlic Planting Party

October 26, 11 AM - 2 PM

Edible & ornamental bulb sale, free family crafts, fall planting in WYG

Learn More & Register >

Fall 5K

November 10, 8:30 AM

Run or walk through stunning fall foliage

Race Registration >

Winter Festival

December 7, 10 AM - 4 PM

Holiday market, food trucks, and free kids activities

Save the date — more details to come

Christmas Tree Sale

December 7 - 8, 10 AM - 4 PM

Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands

Save the date — more details to come

Forest Bathing Walks

Various dates and times

Meditation and mindfulness

Upcoming Dates & Registration >