Time is running out to register for FONA’s Fall 5K! The race is this Saturday, October 31st at 8:30 AM. Enjoy the cool autumn weather — perfect for running — and fall foliage on display! Families, beginner runners, and walkers are all welcome at this race. Strollers and dogs are allowed, but dogs must stay on a 6 foot non-retractable leash. Zeke’s Coffee and Recharge DC will be on site for a post-run pick-me-up!

Come dressed in your best Halloween costume for trick-or-treating and the chance to win a fun prize! You must register by Friday, October 30th in order to participate in the race, but you do not need to register to attend the festival, which begins at 10 AM. Enjoy pumpkin-themed family activities, lawn games, a bulb sale, and more!

We are grateful to AT&T, Pepco, and Sustainable Maryland for helping make this event possible.

Register for the Race >

Did you know that this year is the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s 50th anniversary? Founded in 1976 with a bicentennial gift of bonsai from Japan, the museum has offered visitors five decades of horticultural discovery, cultural connection, and living artistry. On Saturday, November 7th, we’re celebrating this special milestone with a day full of festivities. Tour the museum, see 3D bonsai tree visualizations, take part in family activities, and grab a bite from local food trucks during this free celebration. Activities are ongoing between 10 AM to 4 PM — no registration required.

We all love spring flowers, but you must plant bulbs in fall if you want a stunning display next spring. Bulbs like daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, ranunculus, and alliums should be planted in fall, and will be available for purchase at FONA’s Fall 5K & Festival on October 31st. Swing by the bulb sale in front of Washington Youth Garden starting at 10 AM. Be sure to read these bulb planting tips to set yourself up for success:

With support from FONA, the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum underwent minor renovations this fall to refresh and improve the space. Pavilions and demonstration areas were painted, repaired, and powerwashed to help the museum look its best ahead of its 50th anniversary. Thank you to our supporters for ensuring that the nation’s premiere public bonsai and penjing collections are well cared for. Consider making a gift today to support more improvement projects like this one.

Black Pine #1 was the very first plant on the list of the bicentennial gift bonsai from the Japan Bonsai Association in 1976. This plant was put first because it has particular significance: it is thought to be about the same age as the United States. It was growing in the Atsumi Peninsula before it was dug up and started training in 1895.

See our calendar for a list of all of our upcoming events and programs. FONA supporters get perks like discounts and early access to registration.

Donate today!