This Native American Heritage Month, explore DC's Indigenous history. The Anacostia River that borders the National Arboretum was named after the Anacostan people, a Native American trive originally known as the Nacotchtank. While Anacostans were some of the original land stewards of what became Washington, DC, very little is known about their past and present.

Armand Lione, a local amateur historian, is trying to change that. The Washington Post recently featured Armand's research of the Nacotchtank people and how he is sharing this history with fellow DC residents.

Around the world, scientists are considering how to rename plant and animal species to better reflect their original Indigenous names. From New Zealand conifers to American persimmons, updating these scientific names would not only honor their historical use, but also acknowledge their present-day cultural significance to Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Yes, the National Arboretum's open this Thanksgiving! The Arboretum is open every day this week from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Check out the self-guided tours on the Arboretum's mobile app to help you explore. This app features suggestions of what to see based on the seasons and what's in bloom, as well as a plant finder and interactive map of the Arboretum.

Download the Arboretum's mobile app for iOS or Android platforms.

Join us December 11th and 12th from 10 AM to 4 PM for our Christmas Tree Sale & Holiday Market at the National Arboretum.

Pre-order your Christmas tree, wreath, or garland for pickup or delivery. Pick them up (1) at the National Arboretum during our sale on December 11-12, (2) at our partner site in Alexandria, VA before the sale, or (3) have it delivered to your home.

Visit the Procrastinator's Holiday Market — Saturday only! Featuring gifts and goodies from local vendors, family-friendly arts and crafts, and holiday train rides. Give the gift of FONA this holiday and purchase a FONA membership, Washington Youth Garden honey, or a one-of-a-kind Arboretum Christmas ornament.

We're looking for volunteers to help with our Christmas Tree Sale from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturday, December 11th. We can also arrange for shorter shifts to accommodate your schedule.