Intro to Horticultural Science & Botany

Have you ever wanted to learn the basics of home gardening, from plant identification and pruning, to soil and plant care? Are you an experienced gardener who is looking to improve your skills or gain a deeper understanding of important concepts like pruning, sustainability or soil testing/management? Join us for this yearlong series of workshops and classes designed to give gardeners, of all experience levels, the tools and knowledge to properly care for their gardens. No matter how small or large your garden is, you will gain new insights through this series of classes and hands-on workshops that take place here at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. This class will provide an introductory review for the home gardener of plants and their parts, botanical nomenclature, and plant identification of leaves and flowers through the use of horticultural language. It will also cover soil science, sustainability, and biodiversity in the garden, and the critical plant/insect/animal systems that make it all happen. This is a fun and informative class that has just enough science and provides links to follow-up in your own garden. It is recommended that participants take this class prior to taking either of the in-garden Plant ID classes.

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

Forcing Bulbs: Amaryllis and Paperwhites

Forcing Bulbs: Amaryllis and Paperwhites at New England Botanic Garden Start a new holiday tradition with NEBG by mastering the art of forcing amaryllis and paperwhite bulbs in this hands-on workshop led by our expert horticulture team. You'll learn essential techniques for coaxing these stunning winter blooms to flourish indoors, adding a burst of color to your home when you need it most. Under the guidance of our skilled staff, you'll craft beautiful, custom bulb displays perfect for holiday décor or gifting. Whether you're seasoned gardener or a beginner, this workshop provides the tools and knowledge to create lasting floral beauty throughout the season.

Flora in Flight, Aerial Art by Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics

Experience a collaboration between art and nature as vast, fluid canvasses of color dance overhead in the wind at New England Botanic Garden. This trilogy of large-scale kinetic art by Colorado Springs-based creative arts and design studio Poetic Kinetics will transform spaces within the Garden into living tapestries sure to spark wonder and ignite the imagination. Led by Creative Director Patrick Shearn, Poetic Kinetics is world-renowned and has earned recognition for epic festival art installations, immersive public art, and fine art museum displays that inspire audiences and connect them with their environments through visually striking experiences. Flora in Flight will span 3,007 total square feet and come to life with 52,735 feet of colorful flowing fabric, and 3,793 linear feet of rope. The installations are unique pieces created for the Garden and will be part of Poetic Kinetics’ Skynet Art Series.

Enchanted Forest, Nature-Inspired Fairy Houses by Sally J. Smith

he enchantment continues this fall – everyone’s favorite mythical creatures are returning to the Garden! Sally J. Smith’s intricately designed one-of-a-kind fairy houses will transform The Ramble into a whimsical fairyland that is sure to leave you charmed. Experience the magic as you journey through our enchanted fairy forest exhibit, Enchanted Forest, featuring over 25 magical fairy houses built with natural and nature-inspired materials. Immerse yourself in a magical miniature world where fantasy meets nature and let your imagination soar. This exhibit is included with General Admission.

Gourd-geous Creations: The Art of Pumpkin Carving

Unlock the art of 3D pumpkin carving with award-winning master sculptor Paul Dever in this hands-on, creative workshop. Paul, renowned for his extraordinary pumpkin artistry, will guide you through the techniques and tools necessary to transform an ordinary pumpkin into a stunning, three-dimensional masterpiece. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with traditional carving, this class offers a unique opportunity to elevate your skills and creativity. Throughout the session, Paul will demonstrate the process of carving intricate designs, adding depth, and bringing your pumpkin to life with detailed facial features, expressions, and textures. You’ll learn how to select the right pumpkins, choose appropriate tools, and apply advanced techniques such as layering, sculpting, and shading. Paul’s personalized instruction ensures that you can work at your own pace while receiving expert tips and feedback tailored to your level of experience.

Spooktacular Mixology

A curious home bartender at heart, Meredith Powell honed her mixology and teaching skills as the Beverage Director at Orange Door Kitchen where she launched a popular cocktail education program and managed the bar for private parties and public events. Her approach to craft cocktails is accessible, flavor-driven, and spirited, combining practical know-how with a light-hearted attitude about mixing drinks at home. Meredith is an interior designer, supper club hostess and fitness devotee when she is not behind the bar. She lives in Acton with her husband, Chris, and two dogs.

Return of the Chestnut Tree: Restoration Tour

Led by New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill horticulturist and land steward, Robert Graham, and volunteers Lois &amp; Denis Melican, discover this innovative restoration project and enjoy fresh ripe chestnuts during peak season. Come prepared for a hike in the woods to our American Chestnut restoration project and learn about the American Chestnut's place in the landscape and history.  Robert Graham is the Land Steward at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill located in Boylston, MA. Denis and Lois Melican have been working with American chestnuts for 20 years, planting the 1st chestnut research orchard on state land in Massachusetts at Moore State Park in Paxton.

Frank L Harrington Apple Orchard: Tour & Lecture

Embark on an enchanting journey through our newly planted heirloom apple orchard with industry experts and our knowledgeable horticulture staff. Explore the rich history &amp; diverse characteristics of heirloom apples in this captivating tour, with opportunities to sample various heirloom and modern varieties.

Gnomevember at New England Botanic Garden

A delightfully mischievous cast of garden gnomes are returning to New England Botanic Garden this fall! Visiting from near and far, these sneaky garden gnomes will take up residence in some of their favorite hiding spots around the Garden. The whole family will enjoy searching for all of the gnomes and uncovering their unique stories, each developed by a local artist who used their talents to bring the gnomes to life. Come be part of the magic this Gnomevember!

Fall Tree Identification Walk at New England Botanic Garden

As trees lose their green chlorophyll in the fall, we get to see the colors they've been hiding underneath all summer. Often, we can differentiate species of trees by their fall foliage or spot interloping vines that have otherwise disguised themselves in the canopy all year. This is our opportunity to work on some Tree ID in "broad strokes," getting to know forest populations from a distance through their unique mixes of color. We will also focus on other aspects of identification like leaf structure, bark, habitat, or even timing of color change or leaf drop. So come join herbalist and arborist Alex Klein for one last glorious walk amongst the trees this season as they bid us farewell.

Autumn Horticulturist Walk & Talk at New England Botanic Garden

Join the Garden’s own horticulture experts for a seasonal walk and talk, focusing on what’s in bloom and fall favorites from NEBG's collections. Learn about the some of the first plants in New England Botanic Garden’s collection as well as some of the new additions. Please Note: in case of inclement weather, the class will be moved to our indoor conservatories. The class will be held rain or shine.

Handprinted Winter Wrapping Paper & Holiday

Discover the art of linocut printmaking in this engaging and beginner-friendly workshop! Set in a relaxed, creative environment, you'll learn the fundamentals of this traditional technique, from selecting and using the carving tools to transferring and carving your own designs onto linoleum blocks. You will be guided step by step, ensuring you feel confident as you create your own intricate patterns and festive images. Once your designs are complete, you'll experiment with inking and printing techniques to bring your creations to life. The final products will be your very own hand-printed holiday cards and wrapping paper—perfect for adding a personal, artistic touch to your gifts this season. Whether you’re completely new to printmaking or looking to enhance your skills, this workshop offers a fun and fulfilling way to craft something meaningful and beautiful for the holidays. All materials, including linoleum blocks, carving tools, ink are available to borrow. You’ll leave with two carved blocks, a set of cards and wrapping paper, along with the skills to continue printmaking at home. No previous experience is necessary—just bring your creativity!

Embroidered Gifts: Winter Bird Ornaments

Learn the basics of hand embroidery, with a focus on winter birds to brighten your home.&nbsp;Open to beginners as well as experienced embroiderers. We will create a 3" hooped embroidered ornament for your tree, featuring a cardinal in an evergreen. We will cover the satin stitch with blended colors for realistic shading, couching with metal cord for a boarder, chain stitch for the pine needles, and beading for the berries. Everyone will go home with all the things needed to complete their embroidery. For more advanced students will get the same kit as beginners but the instructor, Liz Ives, will bring additional thread and tool for you to try. Liz will talk with more advanced students about their individual needs before class. Some suggestions for more advanced students include using single strands of thread for a finer color shading, working with a laying tool, trying silk and wool thread or mastering bullion knots for texture.&nbsp;

Gnome Sweet Gnome: Paint Your Own Garden

Create your own mini garden gnome in this fun painting workshop for tweens to adults! Enjoy gnome-sized treats while brining your own gnome to life with paint. Meet Your Instructor: Linda Snay Linda Snay was born in Connecticut and has always been drawn to the world of art.&nbsp;She discovered watercolors at a young age and was encouraged by art teachers.&nbsp;She studied art in college and went on to graduate from Eastern Connecticut State University with a BA, double major in Studio Art and Art History.&nbsp;After moving to Massachusetts, her career led to positions in education in museums and art centers, and she is currently a teaching artist leading engaging art classes for both children and adults.&nbsp;She works in various media, including watercolor, acrylic, oil, and pastel.&nbsp;She is a member of Arts Worcester and participates regularly in exhibitions in Central Massachusetts.

Poinsettia Care 101: Keeping Them Alive

Are you tired of watching your poinsettia wither away before the new year even begins? You’re not alone! Whether you're a first-time plant parent or have struggled with poinsettias in the past, this workshop is designed to take the mystery (and frustration) out of caring for this holiday classic. In a fun, hands-on setting, we’ll teach you everything you need to know—from how to pick the healthiest plant, to watering and light tips, and even troubleshooting common problems like leaf drop. And don’t worry if you’ve never managed to keep one alive before—this class is perfect for beginners! By the end of the workshop, you’ll feel confident in caring for your poinsettia and even have the know-how to help it bloom again next year. Plus, you’ll leave with your very own poinsettia to take home, ready to thrive with all your new plant care skills!

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Best of 💫

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added to Joyraft

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Discover kid-friendly fun in Boston, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas! Enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, explore the New England Aquarium, and visit the Franklin Park Zoo. Find parks, playgrounds, and seasonal events perfect for families across Massachusetts.

Top 20 kid-friendly things to do in Boston, MA

Kid-friendly things to do in Boston

Kid-friendly events

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.