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N° 310 — August 5, 2026
Enjoy regular updates and insights from FONA, the U.S. National Arboretum, and our award-winning Washington Youth Garden.
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Dear Friends,
Through summer heat and stormy skies, our supporters' commitment to the U.S. National Arboretum keeps this oasis thriving. As we look forward to the crisp, cool days of fall, we want to make sure you have every opportunity to enjoy the green spaces you love.
Upcoming experiences created for you:
What has been your favorite summer memory here so far? We’d love to hear your story — just drop us a line!
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Jeanne Braha
Executive Director
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Kick off Labor Day weekend by rocking out in the National Herb Garden! Our next Music in the Meadow concert on Friday, September 4th at 7 PM will pay homage to the Herb Garden’s Rock (‘n Roll) Garden” exhibit theme. The Daisy Road band’s eclectic mix of rock, soul, and funk music will celebrate the vibrant world of herbs that rock, as well as those that inspire us to rock. Bring your picnic blanket, try out a local food truck, and sing along to classic rock tunes the whole family will enjoy!
Adult tickets cost $25, with a limited number of $15 community access tickets available. Admission is free for children under 12. All tickets must be purchased in advance (no door sales).
This project is supported in part by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Purchase Your Concert Ticket >
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This Friday's summer evening hours are sponsored by Marcel C. LaFollette and Jeffrey K. Stine in honor of Shakespeare Theatre Company and its forthcoming production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Thank you for making this Friday's extended hours possible!
| | FONA's Other Upcoming Events | | See our calendar for a list of all of our upcoming events and programs. FONA members get member perks like discounts and early access to registration. Donate any amount to become a FONA member! | | | | |
Summer Evening Hours
Weekdays through August | Open until 8 PM
Savor summer evening hours before they’re over! Enjoy the extra daylight and cooler evening temperatures while exploring the Arboretum’s 451 acres of greenspace. The last day of summer evening hours is Friday, August 28th.
Evening Hours Gate, Access, and Facilities Information >
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Wellness Wednesdays
Through August | 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Price: Varies per program $12 - $20
Connect your mind, body, and spirit with nature through guided mindfulness programs like yoga and sound bathing, held every Wednesday during summer evening hours. Registration is required.
Register for Wellness Wednesdays >
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Food Truck Fridays
Through August | 5 PM - 7:45 PM
Want to enjoy a Friday evening picnic at the Arboretum? We have you covered! Purchase food from a variety of rotating food trucks every Friday evening through August 28th.
See Our Event Calendar for the Full Lineup >
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Forest Bathing — NEW!
August 22, September 20 | 9 AM - 11 AM
Price: $35
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature at the National Arboretum during this guided mindfulness experience.
Register >
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Salsa Garden Party
Friday, August 28 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Price: Free
Learn how to salsa dance and enjoy salsa made from freshly harvested tomatoes — all right in the Washington Youth Garden! You can also buy Mexican food and ice cream from food trucks.
Let us Know You’re Coming >
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Fall Bird Walk — NEW!
Saturday, September 19 | 9 AM - 11 AM
Price: Free
Spot birds in the Arboretum’s unique ecosystem and learn birdwatching tips from experienced guides. Sign up soon, these bird walks fill quickly!
Register >
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Dinner Under the Stars
Tuesday, September 22 | 5:30 - 9 PM
Join fellow champions of agriculture, conservation, and policy for an unforgettable evening of connection and impact at the National Arboretum. Engage with key figures from industry, Capitol Hill, D.C. government, and local philanthropy while enjoying cocktails and a seated dinner in view of the Capitol Columns.
Learn More About the Event >
Purchase a Ticket >
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Fall 5K
Saturday, October 31 | 8:30 AM
Current price: $45
Enjoy the National Arboretum’s spectacular fall foliage as you run or walk the race. Plus, get in the Halloween spirit and wear your costume!
For the lowest price possible, sign up early. Race registration costs $45 for the first 150 participants, or $36 for FONA members with the discount code (members, check the latest member newsletter for the code). Prices will increase after the first 150 people sign up for the race.
Sign Up for the Fall 5K >
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Volunteer at the National Arboretum
Weekly opportunities
Support FONA's visitor programs, like our summer concerts, or get your hands dirty in the Washington Youth Garden. U.S. National Arboretum volunteer opportunities are also available to support the archives and living collections.
Learn More & Sign Up for Volunteer Opportunities >
| | Other Events at the National Arboretum | | |
Waiting to be Discovered: A Viewing Stone Exhibit
June 27 - September 7 | 10 AM - 4 PM
Price: Free
Viewing stone lovers find inspiration in the traditional stones found and displayed in China and Japan; however, when it comes collecting stones in this country many stones do not fit the classic traditions. These small natural objects encourage contemplation of larger landscape scenes, objects in nature, and abstract images. Challenge your imagination by comparing the variety of stones on view in this exhibition. Members of the Potomac Viewing Stone Group, a regional organization dedicated to stone appreciation, will display viewing stones from their private collections.
| | Image courtesy of the National Arboretum | | |
The National Arboretum is open on weekdays from 8 AM to 8 PM —extended summer hours brought to you by FONA!
The Arboretum closes at 5 PM on weekends.
Check Our Website for Full Details >
| | As a member-based organization, FONA’s supporters are at the heart of our work. Donate any amount to join or renew your membership for one year. Or make a recurring monthly donation and become a Sustaining Member to support our work all year long. Many tax-smart donation options are also available. | | | | |
