Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden: Dazzling Gardens

Experience Night Lights at New England Botanic Garden, one of the region’s most dazzling winter light displays! Revel in the wonder of the winter season with friends, family, and half a million lights. Enter an illuminated world where stars of the botanic garden shine, and where sparkling experiences and one-of-a-kind light displays inspire joy to last all year. It’s a celebration of nature like you’ve never seen before—bright, bold, and full of dazzle. There is no better place to make memories this season than Night Lights. As the days grow shorter, find cheer in gardens decked out in a record number of lights. Wander among twinkling trees and enchanting landscapes. Night Lights displays change each year, so there is always something new and exciting for return visitors to discover. Festive family activities, sweet treats, holiday shopping, and more await. And with free on-site parking, the magic begins the moment you arrive! Garden Members receive a 25% discount on tickets and 50% off on tickets purchased for the evenings of December 1–3 (while supplies last!). Learn more and get your tickets at <a href="https://nebg.org/nightlights/">nebg.org/nightlights</a>.

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

Disco Fever at New England Botanic Garden

Get ready to boogie among the blooms with an unforgettable night of groovy tunes at New England Botanic Garden. Dance the night away to your favorite disco hits while local DJs spin classic vinyl and fabulous drag performers get the party started. Plus, browse a curated vintage market, sip handcrafted mocktails and cocktails, and bust a move under dazzling disco displays. Come dressed in your best retro glam and party like it’s the 1970s. Ticket price includes one free beverage and a night of good vibes. Must be at least 18 to attend. Learn more and reserve tickets at <a href="https://nebg.org/discofever/">https://nebg.org/discofever/</a>.

Illustrated: Art & Science at the Garden

Illustrated: Art/Science at the Garden invites you to observe, imagine, and create through both microscope and paintbrush. Friday’s online programs invite you into the minds of artists and scientists to explore how observation deepens creativity. Then join us for a weekend of immersive practice-based workshops at the Garden. Whether you’re an experienced illustrator or simply curious about plant anatomy and form, Illustrated offers a space to explore the creative and scientific side of the natural world. See: Symposia &amp; Conferences at NEBG - <a href="https://nebg.org/adult-education/symposia-conferences/">https://nebg.org/adult-education/symposia-conferences/</a>

Drawing Basics: Fantastic Flowers in Pen & Ink

Learn the basics of working in pen &amp; ink to create beautiful flower drawings.&nbsp; &nbsp; In this class you will begin by doing tracing from photos onto inking film, explore several inking techniques, including hatching, crosshatching and stippling. Being able to see your photo through the Dura-lar, a polyester film with a matte finish, there is no need to worry about getting the drawing correct.&nbsp; This online workshop is 4 weeks long. You will meet every Saturday morning for instruction with the teacher. After the morning session you will be given time to continue working on your artwork. In the afternoon each person will schedule a 15 minute one-on-one time with the instructor to talk about your artwork and get personal input.&nbsp;

Fireside Concert at New England Botanic Garden

Enjoy warm notes on chilly winter nights at New England Botanic Garden. Join Juventas New Music Ensemble for an intimate concert experience set against the cozy backdrop of a crackling fire. The program features romantic, classical music by contemporary composers. This year’s program, Family Photos, includes works inspired by the richness of each composer’s heritage, celebrating the many cultures that shape our country and inviting listeners to reflect on the diverse threads woven into our shared national story. Learn more about the event and get your tickets at <a href="https://nebg.org/fireside-concert/">https://nebg.org/fireside-concert/</a>. $60-75 per Half-Table (admits 2)

Elevated, An Orchid Exhibition at New England Botanic Garden

Elevated: An Orchid Exhibition at New England Botanic Garden celebrates the beauty and wonder of orchids in combination with captivating aerial sculptures by artist Cicely Carew. Featuring a stunning display of more than 2,500 orchids, Elevated transforms the Garden’s subtropical conservatories into an immersive world of color, movement, and botanical brilliance. Inspired by the forms and rhythms of nature, Carew’s “flying paintings” soar overhead – a joyful expression of the connection between art and nature. Experience the creative wonder of this breathtaking orchid exhibition during daytime hours or through an exciting lineup of classes and special events, including our Orchids After Dark series. Learn more at <a href="https://nebg.org/elevated/">https://nebg.org/elevated/</a>.

Winter Tree Bark Identification at New England Botanic Garden

Join Author and naturalist Michael Wojtech at New England Botanic Garden for a closer look at the fascinating world of bark. Discover why some trees have smooth bark while others are rugged or peeling and discover the secrets these variations reveal about tree life. This class will include both an indoor lecture and an guided outdoor walk through NEBGs trails to see the world of bark for yourself.&nbsp;Copies of Michael Wojtech's book, Bark: A Field Guide to Trees of the Northeast, will be available for purchase during class.

Photographing Orchids: Up-Close at New England Botanic Garden & Personal

Join us after hours for an exclusive photography session.&nbsp; Get up-close and personal with the orchids and displays in our Elevated orchid exhibition and practice your craft without the crowds.&nbsp; This is a self-guided opportunity. Please bring your own tripod and camera equipment. No formal photography instructions are provided.&nbsp;

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill 

Seeds to Sustenance: Nut Tree Symposium

Discover the power of nut trees at NEBG's Seeds to Sustenance symposium. &nbsp;&nbsp; Join us for our inaugural full-day symposium to explore the ecological, cultural and culinary value of nut trees in the Northeast - centered around the return of the American chestnut and expanding into broader themes of restoration, food systems, and climate resilience - it is going to be nuts!&nbsp;

Frosted Fun: Gingerbread Decorating Workshop

Welcome to the Twelve Days of Craft-mess! Bring holiday magic to life through gingerbread. Inspired by the Garden’s elegant Orangerie, this festive workshop invites you to design and decorate your very own gingerbread greenhouse. Under the guidance of Peppers’ Artful Events’ Executive Pastry Chef and Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship finalist, Lisa Clark, you’ll learn creative decorating techniques to turn premade gingerbread panels into candy-coated botanical masterpieces. Icing “glass” windows, frosted evergreens, and sparkling sugar details transform each structure into a miniature conservatory worthy of display. With step-by-step instruction, Chef Lisa breaks down each element into approachable techniques—perfect for those new to decorating or looking to elevate their holiday skills. All materials are provided for this relaxing, adults-only afternoon of artistry and fun.

Winter Solstice: Crown, Candle, & Yule

Celebrate the Winter Solstice with Seasonal Crafts at New England Botanic Garden. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, creativity, and festive cheer! This enchanting season invites you to embrace its charm through a delightful hands-on experience. Join us for coffee and tea while crafting a stunning floral crown centerpiece using an array of seasonal and dried blooms that capture the essence of winter's beauty.&nbsp;&nbsp; In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn about the tradition of the Yule log and its history as a symbol of warmth, protection, and renewal during the winter season.&nbsp;Participants will create their own Yule log to take home using a wooden base, seasonal greenery, dried citrus, candles, and other natural materials. As we craft, we will also explore the meaning behind some of the items traditionally used; such as evergreens holly, and cinnamon.&nbsp; All materials will be provided, though participants are welcome to bring their own small items or personal symbols to add. The goal is for each person to leave with a beautiful, meaningful centerpiece that can be displayed or shared with family during the winter season.

Winter Holiday Floral Arrangement

Design an elegant seasonal showstopper with poinsettias, roses, evergreens, and berries. Learn expert floral design skills and techniques. Deck the halls with dazzling winter florals! Join us for a festive floral design workshop where you'll create beautiful holiday décor for your home. Great for gifting or brightening your own home. All ability levels are welcome and all supplies will be provided along with a light coffee &amp; tea service.&nbsp;

Holiday Wreath Making with Bluebird Bouquets

The Twelve Days of CRAFT-MESS! The annual Wreath Making Workshop has returned! Join Bluebird Bouquets for a festive and creative experience where you'll craft a fresh floral wreath to brighten your home this holiday season. Using an 18-inch grapevine base, you will learn to design in Bluebird’s signature asymmetrical style, combining seasonal foliage, vibrant florals, and decorative accents. Whether you plan to hang your wreath on your door, wall, or use it as a striking table centerpiece, this workshop offers all the materials and expert guidance you need to create a truly unique holiday decoration. Don't miss this beloved seasonal tradition! Begin your class with coffee, tea, and a light pastry and enjoy this holiday wreath making tradition.

Gnomevember at New England Botanic Garden

The gnomes return! Visit New England Botanic Garden this fall to explore a whimsical world of garden gnomes! Visiting from near and far, the Garden’s cast of specially designed and crafted gnomes have taken up residence in some of their favorite spots around the Garden. Created by talented local artists, each gnome has a unique personality and a story waiting to be discovered. Can you find them all? This exhibition is included with General Admission. Learn more at <a href="https://nebg.org/gnomevember/">https://nebg.org/gnomevember/</a>

Sip & Script: Calligraphy Holiday Ornaments

Sip, swirl, and script your way into the elegant art of modern calligraphy. Join us during the twelve days of Craft-mess.&nbsp;In this class, you'll learn the basic strokes that form letters and practice combining them into graceful script. No artistic background or perfect handwriting required—anyone can learn calligraphy! What You'll Experience Introduction to calligraphy: Learn to use a dip pen and ink to form elegant modern letterforms. Plus, your own calligraphy set to keep! Hands-on practice: Build skills through guided exercises in strokes, letters, and layout. A living tradition: Discover the rich history of calligraphy and its modern-day resurgence. Relax and sip: Enjoy coffee, tea, or mulled cider, with casual conversation, and creative company.

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

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

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

Just added to Joyraft

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

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

Kid-friendly events in Boston

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.

Where

newenglandbg

Experiences