Kick start the summer season with the Houston Arboretum and their engaging nature classes! This June stop by the 155-acre urban oasis and enjoy a fun Bingo night filled with decedent BBQ and adult beverages; bird watch with resident bird enthusiast, Kelsey Low, and discover the underwater ecosystems in the local bayous and ponds!
For more information about the trails, click here. For a complete list of class happenings and prices this season, see below or visit www.houstonarboretum.org.
See below for all June happenings at the Arboretum:
Special Events
BBQ, Beer & Bingo
Saturday, June 17
6:00 – 8:30 pm; first round promptly at 6:30
$20 Member / $35 Nonmember
Must be 21+ to drink
Enjoy a fun evening with delicious BBQ and beer while playing everyone’s favorite game, Bingo! There will be five rounds of bingo and nature-themed trivia to win great prizes. The first round will begin promptly at 6:30 pm. Tasty BBQ, Saint Arnold’s beverages, and Katz iced coffee will be served until supplies run out. Bring your bingo daubers!
Pre-registration is required. Bingo sheets provided, daubers will be sold for $3 each
Adult Programs
Arboretum at Night
Frogs
Saturday, June 10
7:00 – 9:30 pm
$30 member / $45 nonmember
Instructor: Chris Bednarski
Ages 16 and up (must be 21 to drink alcohol)
Enjoy a fabulous summer night in nature! Join Chris Bednarski for a fun and relaxed talk about the spectacular diversity and surprising beauty of frogs. In particular, you’ll learn why frogs around the world are in danger, and what species you might have here in your backyard. While you learn, you’ll enjoy a selection of beers from Saint Arnold Brewing Company, light snacks, and Katz Coffee. After the talk we’ll head out on the trails to search for frogs and other nocturnal critters.
Wear walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Hike guides will be carrying flashlights, but the trails will be dark.
Nature & Wildlife
Series: Nature Revealed
Enjoy a cup of the Arboretum’s Early Bird coffee while learning from local experts! See through the eyes of a specialist as you delve into various science and nature topics. Then, get the chance to use your new knowledge outdoors in some hands-on activities or a nature hike.
Teachers receive 2 hours of SBEC credit and Master Naturalists receive 2 hours of advanced training for each class.
Nature Revealed: Freshwater World
Saturday, June 17
9:30 – 11:30 am
$10 member / $25 nonmember
Ages 13 and up
There’s a whole world under the surface of freshwater ponds and bayous that we rarely get to see. Houston is the Bayou City, but what do you really know about your aquatic neighbors? In this class, you’ll learn about the ecology of our freshwater habitats and get a hands-on introduction to the creatures who live in them. We’ll also use “pond dipping” and water quality testing to determine the health of our freshwater system. Notes: Wear walking shoes and dress for the weather, and wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and dirty.
Series: Birds
Second Saturday Bird Walks
Second Saturday of the month
8:00 – 10:00 am
Free to attend, donations appreciated
Work on your bird watching skills while helping the Arboretum monitor bird populations on a fun, relaxed morning walk. Join us on the second Saturday of each month at the front door of the building for a two-hour bird walk led by Kelsey Low, resident bird enthusiast. We welcome all levels of bird watching skill and all ages (as long as you’re quiet) – but no dogs, please!
Field Trip: Brazos Bend State Park
Saturday, June 3
8:00 – 11:00 am
$20 member / $35 nonmember
Ages 13 and up
Enjoy a guided bird watching experience at one of the Houston area’s best birding spots. American Bittern, Northern Harrier, and Anhinga are some of the possibilities. While you observe the amazing waterfowl, waders, and other birds in the wetlands, your guide will also talk about the importance of wetland habitats and how the Arboretum is restoring its wetlands to help birds and other animals. Notes: We will meet at Brazos Bend State Park. Bring water and snacks, and dress appropriately for the weather. Binoculars will be available to borrow.
Plants & Gardening
Bug Hotel & Toad Abode
Sunday, June 18
10:00 am – Noon
$30 member / $45 nonmember (per pair)
Instructor: Kelsey Low
Ages 5 and up
Great activity for dads and kids! In this fun, hands-on class, you and a partner will work together to make homes for garden critters. Bug hotels can attract helpful insects like mason bees to your garden, and toad abodes provide shelter for pest-eating amphibians. Each pair will bring home one bug hotel and one toad abode.
Notes: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Art & Photography
Coffee, Coloring & Conversation
Saturday, June 24
10:00 am – Noon
$10 member / $25 nonmember
Instructor: Kelsey Low
Ages 12 and up
Yes, coloring books for adults! Come check out the hobby that’s taking the world by storm. Whether it’s a fun reminder of childhood, a tool for relaxation, or a great excuse to get together and chat, adult coloring books and coloring clubs are becoming extremely popular. Along with a brief introduction to coloring as a hobby, we’ll provide coffee, tea, scones and muffins, coloring pages, and colored pencils for you to enjoy. We will also have large-format coloring pages that are great for beginners, seniors, and others who prefer less cramped designs.
Edible Arboretum
Arbor-EAT-um: Ice Cream Social
Saturday, June 24
2:00 – 3:30 pm
$30 member / $45 nonmember (per pair)
Instructor: Kelsey Low
Ages 5 and up
We all scream for ice cream! Did you know that you can make ice cream without a fancy ice cream maker? In this class, you and a friend will get to make your own ice cream using everyday household items. We’ll provide a selection of ingredients and toppings, including some wild Arboretum-inspired treats like blackberries and pecans. Of course you won’t be able to take your ice cream home without it melting, so be ready to eat your creations here! Notes: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Children must be accompanied by an adult.