Jensen-Olson Arboretum Events
Events & Workshops
To see what’s on the schedule, check the Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum calendar of events.
Mother’s Day | May 11, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Visit the arboretum on Mother’s Day to stroll the grounds, listen to music and enjoy refreshments as the abundance of Primula colors unfold. This event is free to all and hosted by Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum.
Guided Walk | May 16, 1 – 2:15 p.m.
Join us for a free guided walk around the garden on Primula Day. We’ll look at the variety of shapes, sizes, and colors that makes up the Nationally Accredited CollectionTM of this genus of plants.
Native Plant Walk | May 25, 11 a.m.
Celebrate Alaska Native Plant month with a guided tour through JOA’s native plant gardens. We’ll highlight trees, shrubs, and other interesting plants discussing their beauty and value to us and the landscape. Please email us to let us know you’ll be attending.
Family Beach Exploration | May 31, 10 a.m. – Noon
Join Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum for a family-friendly exploration of the shoreline ecosystem during an incredibly low tide! Kids ages 6-12 (siblings ages 3-15 welcome) can dive into fun, hands-on learning tasks and games led by local experts. This event will help participants discover the diverse life found at the water’s edge. Registration is required and will open at noon on May 21. Space is limited to 25 participants.
Bug Day! | June 21, 10 a.m. – Noon
Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum organizes Bug Day! for school-age children (ages 6-12) and their families each summer to identify insects found in their surroundings. Siblings ages 3-15 are welcome to register as well. This fun, educational event features hands-on workstations, games, and activities that help kids demystify insects and understand their important role in the ecosystem. Registration is required and opens at noon on June 11. Space is limited to 30 participants.
Art in the Garden | July 26, 2 – 4 p.m.
Unleash your child’s creativity at Art in the Garden! This hands-on event with Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum invites students ages 6-12 to explore the beauty of nature through art. The group will be split into two age groups—older students will focus on painting, while younger students will enjoy drawing. Please note: Placement in either group is not guaranteed and will be based on age and skill level. Registration is required and opens at noon on July 16; space is limited to 20 students.
Other Activities
Weddings
The arboretum offers an intimate and natural setting for a modest wedding ceremony. Attendance is limited to 50 guests and receptions are not permitted. Email us for reservation information and guidelines.
Art & Photography
The grounds are open to community members for personal painting and photography during normal operating hours. If you have any questions, feel free to email us prior to your visit.
Art in the Garden Displays
In celebration of the Jensen-Olson Arboretum’s 15th anniversary in 2022, Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum organized an Art in the Garden exhibit. Some pieces were purchased by a generous anonymous donor and can be seen onsite.
