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Annual Events at Adkins Arboretum

Art Exhibitions

The Arboretum hosts an ongoing exhibition series of artwork on natural themes by regional artists, as well as an annual art competition for artists held in February of each year and an outdoor sculpture show in the summer. The art exhibitions are displayed in the Visitor’s Center program room.

Guided Walks

Adkins Arboretum offers docent-led walks on Saturdays, April through November, following seasonal themes – the beauty of early spring ephemeral flowers, the sweet scents of summer, the shadows of the harvest and autumn, and winter ecology. Guided walks of the Arboretum’s landscaped native gardens include discussion of seasonal changes, garden maintenance tips, and a look at the elements of a well-designed garden. The one hour guided walks are free to Arboretum members.

Soup'n Walk
Nurture, Nature and Nutrition

Be inspired by nature with a walk through woods and meadows led by an Arboretum docent. Learn about the Arboretum's colorful native plants as you see them in their native habitat. Then nurture your body by enjoying a healthy lunch based on a variety of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, accented with herbs and spices.

Arbor Day Run

In April, join fellow nature enthusiasts to celebrate Arbor Day for a 5K Run and a Family Fun Run/Dash. Catch a glimpse of the beginning of spring on the Arboretum’s scenic paths.

Fall and Spring Native Plant Sales

Native plant sales are held in May and September. More than 250 species of wildflowers, grasses, vines, shrubs, ferns and trees, many propagated at the Arboretum’s nursery from locally collected seed, are for sale. Throughout the growing season, a selection of native plants is available for sale at the Visitor’s Center.

Spring Garden Symposium

Halloween Haunted Hayride

Each October, the Arboretum hosts its annual Halloween Haunted Hayride, co-sponsored by the Tuckahoe State Park, Tuckahoe Equestrian Center and Eastern Shore Jousting Association. Witches, ghosts and ghouls will taunt you on this spooky ride through the Arboretum’s forest. The event is held rain or shine. A costume contest is held 30 minutes before starting time each night. Not for the faint of heart!

Fall Family Festival

Mid-November, with the fall colors in their glory, the Arboretum sponsors a Fall Family Festival. Docent-led walks through diverse natural areas containing various stages of maturing forest and meadows, hayrides, demonstrations, and special craft activities for children featuring fall themes, provide something for all ages to enjoy. Lunch is available for purchase.

Holiday Events

Kick off your holiday decorating at the Arboretum’s annual Holiday Greens Sale. The sale, held the first week in December each year, features a variety of freshly cut local greens, wreaths and natural decorations for purchase. You won't want to miss the Candlelight Caroling Walk with holiday music and refreshments in the Visitor's Center, a walk along woodland paths lined with luminaries, and a horse drawn carriage ride.

*Due to construction, the Candlelight Caroling Walk will not be held in 2008.*