Get ready for a brand new way to explore the Arboretum this spring: FONA’s Hop-on Shuttle! On April 4, April 11, April 18, and May 2 from 10 AM to 4 PM, hop on the shuttle and we'll take you to key destinations throughout the grounds. Stops will include the Dogwood Collections, Holly and Magnolia Collections, Capitol Columns and more. Then, hop off and explore gardens with ease — no driving and re-parking necessary! Docents will share information about the Arboretum’s research, history, and work at many of the stops. Dos Carnales and Frosty Softy food trucks will also sell food near the Visitor Center during Hop-On Shuttle Saturdays. 

Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased ahead of time or on site. FONA members ride for free on April 18th! Donate any amount to become a member. Please note that pets are not permitted aboard the shuttle, but service animals are welcome.

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Come to FONA’s Volunteer Open House in the Washington Youth Garden on April 4th from 10 AM to 1 PM to learn about all of the volunteer opportunities we offer. Meet FONA staff & fellow volunteers, tour the Washington Youth Garden, and help get the garden ready for spring! 

Volunteering with FONA is a wonderful opportunity to get outside and give back to your community. Garden volunteers help with crucial tasks in the Washington Youth Garden like weeding, mulching, and planting. Community event volunteers ensure that events like our annual Garden Fair and Plant Sale, concerts, and 5Ks run smoothly. 

Registration for the Volunteer Open House is optional, but please register to let us know you’re coming and receive important event updates. Volunteers must be 16 or older.

Register for the Open House >

Catch the National Arboretum’s cherry blossom exhibit before it closes on March 29th! Sakura Orihon: Diary of a Cherry Blossom Journey is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM in the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s Exhibits Gallery. 



Plan Your Visit to the National Arboretum >

The exhibit centers on landscape architect Ron Henderson’s journey as he followed the blossoming cherry trees from south to north in Japan and recorded his experience in folding sketchbooks called orihon. His work celebrates the cherry blossom culture in Japan, highlighting his pilgrimages to visit famous old trees. He also focuses on the horticultural practices that extend the lives of cherry trees in Japan, illustrating pruning techniques, branch crutches, rope tenting, and root grafting. This exhibition of Henderson’s books inspires awe for the trees as well as appreciation for the unique way one man documented his journey.

Don’t let this opportunity speed past you! Register today for FONA’s Flowering 5K this Sunday, March 22nd at 8:30 AM. We’re expecting temperatures in the fifties — ideal for running — with cherry blossoms, magnolias, and other flowers in bloom! This scenic race always has a supportive atmosphere, perfect for families, beginner runners, and walkers. Strollers and dogs are welcome, but dogs must stay on a 6 foot non-retractable leash. Zeke’s Coffee, Blossom Bakery, and Taco Dirty to Me will be on site so you can grab a post-race treat and refuel. 

Day-of registration is not available for the Flowering 5K. You must register by Saturday, March 21st in order to participate.

Register for the Race >

Enjoy spring flowers with a Japanese twist at the Ikebana International exhibition, open between April 3rd and 12th from 10 AM to 4 PM. The Washington D.C. Chapter of Ikebana International will exhibit flower arrangements representing a variety of Ikebana schools and styles. There will be a change-out of the exhibits on April 6th and 9th, so plan return visits to see everything. The Chapter will celebrate its 70th anniversary this year with some spectacular arrangements in the National Arboretum Visitor Center and the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum.

Master teachers will give free Ikebana demonstrations from 1 PM to 2:30 PM in the Arboretum Auditorium on April 4, 5, 11, and 12. Plus, don’t miss the Ikebana Children’s Workshop on Sunday, April 12th! 

Learn More About the Exhibit >

See our calendar for a list of all of our upcoming events and programs. Events highlighted in purple have member perks like discounts and early access to registration. Donate any amount to become a FONA member!