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Classes, Workshops, and Lectures at the Yakima Area Arboretum

The Yakima Area Arboretum hosts many classes, workshops, and lectures throughout the year that cover topics such as gardening tips, hands-on workshops, home decor, and so much more. You can use this page to help you find out what's new to learn about at the Arboretum. This page will be updated throughout the year, so keep checking back for what's new to do at the Yakima Area Arboretum.


Registration Required for Classes and Programs.

Want to save some money on our classes, while also being invited to exclusive events, all while supporting one of your local greenspaces? Then become an Arboretum Member today!


  • Arboretum memberships last for 12 months (1 year) from the date of purchase.


  • Members receive discounts for Arboretum classes as well as 10% off at the Arboretum's gift store.


  • Members are also invited to special Arboretum member-only events and nights such as the Arboretum's Plant Sale, 4th of July Fireworks Viewing, Luminaria, and more!

Upcoming Scheduled Classes and Registration Links

Classes, workshops, lectures, and more are announced in our weekly newsletter, on our Facebook page, and on our events page (here).

Ink Trails and Wilderness Tales with Jim Christensen-

Tuesdays:

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Cost: FREE


Upcoming Dates:


Jan 28 - Namibia Highlights

Feb 25 - South Africa Highlights

Mar 25 - Yakima County Wildflowers


All talks will be from 6pm to 8pm!


World traveler, photographer, author, and fantastic pen artist Jim Christensen will take you through his travels around the globe by showing his photos and drawings, discussing his time exploring the wonders of our natural world. These talks are free to attend, but donations are gladly accepted. Jim will be selling some of his prints from his original drawings to support the Yakima Area Arboretum as well to those interested!

FREE Guided Winter Walk - Color, Shape and Texture -

Wednesday, February 26, 2025:

10:00am to 12:00pm

Cost: FREE


This Wednesday morning walk led by Arboretum Education Director Garrett Brenden will go over the interesting trees, shrubs and more on grounds that have wonderful interest during the cold winter.


This walk will focus on enjoying the colors, shapes, and textures of the plants on grounds, aiming to inspire attendees to do more in their gardens so they can enjoy their look year-round!


The walk will be informal, showcasing the unique finds while we're out on the trail.


The walk is free to the public, though there is a suggested donation of $5 per individual. Be sure to dress for the weather and the trail!

Free Native Plant Identification Public Workshops

Wednesdays:

March 5, 2025

6:00pm to 7:30pm

Cost: FREE


Whether it's learning about grasses, identifying leafless twigs, or spending an evening determining which type of native aster we have in our hands, it's always a fun journey to learn together with the Washington Native Plant Society using the dichotomous keys at the workshops.


These are not formal "classes" but are more like a nature study club that likes to brush up on their flora of the inland northwest in different ways using real samples. Registration is preferred but walk-ins are welcome, though space may be limited.

Kids Nature Night "Spring Scene"

Friday, March 28, 2025

5:00pm to 9:00pm

Cost: $45 for First Child, $35 for each Additional Sibling


Looking for a fun, safe, and educational night for the kids while you enjoy an evening out on the town? Then send your kiddos to Kids Nature Night at the Arboretum! Kids Nature Night is for children aged 5 through 12 who will enjoy a night full of science, games, arts and crafts, movies and more. We provide dinner (pizza, veggies/fruit, juice) and snacks (cookies/popcorn, fruits/veggies) for the evening.


Get your child excited for spring with this seasonally focused Kids Nature Night! Kids will learn what animals and plants do to "wake up" in spring, what flowers can be seen around town and on grounds, and attendees will get to make their own cherry tree painting!

Spring Mushroom Foraging Class

Thursday, May 1, 2025

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Cost: $30, $25 for YAA/YVMS Members


Let us introduce you to the wonderful world of wild mushroom hunting, where you can find choice edible mushrooms that you would normally only see on the menu of a high-end restaurant. Through this class, you can learn some basic tips on how to get started, including helpful supplies, a brief look at some of the more prized edible mushrooms (and areas to find them), and some ideas on how to prepare and cook what you find.

CANCELLATION POLICY



For class registrants (excludes Nature Day Camp): If you are unable to attend a class, please call at least 72 hours before the class is scheduled to start and you will receive a full refund minus a 10% processing fee. Cancellations within 72 hours of a class start will not be given a refund.


For Fundraising Event Registrants: Unless otherwise stated refunds will not be given for Arboretum fundraising events such as the Garden Tour or Autumn Bounty.


YAA Class or Event Cancellation: Occasionally the Arboretum will need to cancel a class or event due to such factors as inclement weather, insufficient registration, or other things beyond its control. In such a case the Arboretum will issue registrants a full refund.

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