|
N° 313 — September 2, 2026
Enjoy regular updates and insights from FONA, the U.S. National Arboretum, and our award-winning Washington Youth Garden.
| | |
Dear Friends,
As late summer shifts into autumn and the local school year gets underway, the grounds at the U.S. National Arboretum are beginning their quiet, beautiful transition. The arrival of fall (or Labor Day) is always a powerful reminder of nature's cycles of growth, renewal, and enduring strength.
After more than a decade of leadership and research, Dr. Richard Olsen is stepping down as Director of the U.S. National Arboretum to return to his alma mater at NC State. Under his tenure, the Arboretum expanded its research programs, protected vital plant collections, and deepened its connection to visitors from across the region and around the world. We are deeply grateful for his vision and dedicated service and hope you'll join us in celebrating him at this year's Dinner Under the Stars.
| | |
Transitions naturally bring change, but our supporters serve as the steady root system that keeps the National Arboretum thriving. Thanks to everyone who helped us meet our flash match last week! Because of our community of supporters:
- Youth education programs continue to welcome students back for hands-on, outdoor learning.
- Living collections and scientific research remain safeguarded through every season.
- 451 acres of green space stay open, accessible, and free to all who seek quiet, connection, and inspiration.
Thank you for being such a vital part of our community. I hope to see you at this week’s Music in the Meadow, the Fall 5K & Festival in October, or in the Washington Youth Garden!
| | | | |
Jeanne Braha
Executive Director
| | Summer Evening Hours Sponsor | | |
Last Friday's summer evening hours were sponsored by Elisa Vitale, Doug Edgecomb, and Maude. We hope you enjoyed the last night of summer evening hours for this year!
Thank you to our sponsors for making summer evening hours possible.
| | FONA's Fall Programs & 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! | | | | |
Music in the Meadow: Rock Garden
Friday, September 4 | 7 PM - 8:30 PM
$5 FLASH SALE
Rock out at an outdoor concert that pays homage to the National 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.
This is the perfect event to enjoy with friends and family! Grab dinner from food trucks on site, or bring your own picnic to enjoy on a blanket in the meadow. DC Childcare Connections will also offer free family-friendly activities including face painting, games, and more.
Don't miss our flash sale — concert tickets cost $5 per person right now! Children 12 and under can attend for free, but must register in advance. 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 a Concert Ticket >
| | | | |
Forest Bathing
September 20, October 17 | 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 >
| | | | |
Dinner Under the Stars
Tuesday, September 22 | 5:30 PM - 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 >
| | | | |
Fall Bird Walk
Saturday, October 3 | 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 >
| | | | |
Full Moon Hike & Forest Bathing
Sunday, October 25 | 7 PM - 9 PM
Price: $35
Spend an evening exploring the Arboretum's moonlit gardens, meadows, and woods on a three-mile guided Full Moon Hike. Or slow down and connect with nature during a guided Full Moon Forest Bathing session. Sign up soon, these events fill quickly!
See Upcoming Dates & Register >
| | | | |
Fall 5K & Festival
Saturday, October 31
Race Start: 8:30 AM | Festival Start: 10 AM
Current race price: $50
Soak up spectacular fall foliage on the 5K course, compete in a Halloween costume contest, buy bulbs for your garden, enjoy free family activities, and more! FONA members, check the latest member newsletter for your 20% discount code.
Sign Up for the Fall 5K >
| | | | |
50th Anniversary Celebration: National Bonsai & Penjing Museum
Saturday, November 7 | 10 AM - 4 PM
Celebrate this momentous milestone with a day full of festivities, including museum tours, family activities, and a science cafe. Save the date — more information is coming soon!
| | | | |
Holiday Tree Sale
Friday, November 27 - Sunday, December 6
Times Vary
Fill your home with holiday greenery while supporting a great cause! You can either pick out your tree at the Arboretum, or you can pre-order a tree for home delivery or pick-up at the Arboretum. More information is coming soon!
| | | | |
Holiday Market
Saturday, December 5 | 10 AM - 2 PM
Find the perfect gift from local artisans, enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, and buy festive holiday greenery. Save the date — more information is coming soon!
| | | | |
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 | | 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. | | | | |
