Jensen-Olson Arboretum Events

Kids gathered around on the lawn for Bug Day! at the Arboretum.

Events & Workshops

To see what’s on the schedule, check the Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum calendar of events.


Kids collecting bugs with nets during Bug Day! at the Arboretum

Bug Day!

Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum organizes Bug Day! for school age children and their families each summer to identify insects found in their surroundings. Hands-on workstations, games and other activities help kids demystify insects and understand their importance in the ecosystem.

Mother’s Day

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.

Primula Day

Primula Day celebrates our donor Caroline’s favorite flower. Guided tours help visitors identify and appreciate the range of colors, shapes, and sizes of the flower that makes up the Nationally Accredited CollectionTM of this genus of plants. This free event is hosted annually by staff, local members of the American Primrose Society, and Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum.

Alaska Public Gardens Day

Alaska Public Gardens Day is an opportunity to get out and enjoy your local public garden and the variety of plants that grow in Juneau. This event is free and held the Saturday before Memorial Day each year although it is occasionally combined with Primula Day.

Tidepooling with Families

During this event, kids and families explore the ecosystem along the shore of the arboretum at really low tide. Local experts guide participants through fun learning tasks and games to help them become familiar with the variety of life at the water’s edge. This event is organized by Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum.

Art in the Garden Workshops

Watercolor painting and photography workshops are occasionally offered onsite and organized by Friends of Jensen-Olson Arboretum. Attendees learn from local, experienced artists on how to observe nature and create memorable pieces of art.

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.