Each season, Greenwood offers a wide range of on-site programs intended to inform and entertain. You won’t want to miss our special guided tours, engaging lectures, interesting workshops, uplifting musical events, and more.
With Elaine “Sky” Schenkel, Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide
Forest bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, meaning to “immerse oneself” or “bathe” in any natural environment, and the garden at Greenwood will provide the perfect place for such a special sensory experience. This guided session will help you slow down and unwind so that you can derive the sense of serenity that comes from being in harmony with nature’s sights, sounds, and smells. A brief overview of forest bathing is included, along with sensory meditation, a gentle walk, and guided invitations to help participants connect more deeply to the land, themselves,
and each other.
$25 members; $30 non-members
Open to 15 participants
Take your date on a romantic stroll through this century-old garden with a glass of bubbly and nibbles in hand. Step back in time and imagine how life and nature were celebrated during the 1920’s when the Day family lived on the property and entertained guests. Come dressed up in the style of the day or use our costume props for selfies!
$50 per couple
Test your skills of perception as you set out to find some of Greenwood’s most unique artifacts! A golden pineapple, a ceramic squirrel, and a hidden turtle, among many others, await discovery on this fanciful garden scavenger hunt. Take photos of your findings and receive a prize when you complete the search.
$10 members; $15 non-members
Open to 20 participants ages 18 and up
With Carl Klemme, Owner, Glow Yoga Center
Lean into the ancient Chinese technique of Tai Chi, a graceful form of exercise, akin to meditation in motion, through which various self-defense forms are strung together in a fluid, slow-motion sequence. The result is a quieter mind, reduced stress, and improved balance, posture, and strength. Surrounded by the beauty of Greenwood Gardens, Carl, an experienced instructor, will demonstrate a variety of short Tai Chi flows that you can enjoy practicing at home.
$15 members; $20 non-members
Open to 15 participants
With Dave Hall, New Jersey Audubon Naturalist
Immerse yourself in nature as you venture into the garden with this avian expert. Dave will talk about the varied species of birds that visit Greenwood’s peaceful woodlands and the surrounding 2,100 acres of South Mountain Reservation’s protected parkland.
$15 per person
Open to 15 participants
This classical quartet will present “Ladies First,” a musical program featuring the work of women who composed over the course of history, from the 1500’s to today. The musicians will provide background on each piece within its historical context as well as insight into women’s roles in music through the ages. Prepare to be engaged by a range of compositions, including those that are very accessible as well as others that feature advanced harmonic and rhythmic combinations. Attendees are invited to stroll through the garden starting at 5:30 p.m. and enjoy complimentary wine and cheese served under the tent on the West Terrace at 6 p.m. before the music begins at 6:30 p.m.
$50 members; $55 non-members
Open to 90 attendees
With Vicki Davitashvili, Owner, Stille Essence Tea
Explore the rich flavors and wellness benefits of loose-leaf teas set against the backdrop of an enchanting garden setting. This guided tasting of 4-6 hand-selected blends, emphasizing their unique properties and health benefits, will emphasize education, mindfulness, and sensory enjoyment, creating a memorable and meaningful connection for all participants.
$35 per person
Open to 25 participants
Whatever your preferred mode of creating art, en plein air artists of all skill levels are invited to practice painting, photography, sketching, and journaling throughout the garden on this day. Use of various media – watercolor, pastel, and pen and ink — are welcome. Our century-old site offers magical views, iconic Arts & Crafts follies, stately fountains, and ample space in which to feel at home. Artist easels and tripods are permitted provided they are not placed in the planted beds and pathways are not blocked. Drop cloths required for painting..
$10 members; $15 non-members
Open to 25 participants (includes five oil painting slots)
With Patti Manzi, Moderator and Greenwood Advisory Board Member
Enjoy a guided discussion of a preselected book with a theme reflective of one or more aspects of Greenwood’s focus on nature, beauty, and history. Light refreshments will be served. The Book Group at Greenwood Gardens meets quarterly. Book to be determined.
Complimentary and open to 16 members
With Wayne Quinto, Conservationist and Award-Winning Nature Photographer
September is an ideal time to observe migrating hawks, eagles and falcons passing close to home over the First Watchung Mountain and Greenwood Gardens on their way south for the winter. This presentation will explain the migration of these majestic avian friends and why New Jersey is an ideal vantage-point for viewing this annual pageant, as well as providing some basic skills to help identify what you see. We’ll be taking a walk in the garden, so please wear comfortable shoes.
$20 members; $25 non-members
Open to 15 attendees
Swing into Fall with Lance Bryant and his accomplished jazz quintet! Experience the full sound of the group’s mix of saxophone, trumpet, piano, bass, and drums performing a mix of jazz classics and original pieces. Attendees are invited to stroll through the garden starting at 5:30 p.m,. and enjoy complimentary wine and cheese on the West Terrace at 6:00 p.m. before the music begins at 6:30 p.m.
$50 members; $55 non-members
Open to 90 attendees
Unwind from a long day at work with wine, cheese, and a leisurely walk through the Main Axis, stopping to “smell the roses,” hear the relaxing flow of water in our stately fountains, and marvel at the beauty of this 1920s era garden. You’ll be sure to heighten your senses and feel ready for the week ahead!
$15 per member
Open to 20 participants
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