Thank you for your support in 2023! Whether you donated your time, money, or expertise this past year, you helped us meaningfully connect thousands of people to nature, health, and well-being at the National Arboretum.

We are excited for what this new year will bring at FONA. We are planning new community events, strengthening our existing education programs, renovating the perimeter fence around the Washington Youth Garden, and much more. We remain committed to supporting the National Arboretum and finding new ways to collaborate and share its work with the world.

Thank you for helping us start this new year on a strong note. You can still join us in 2024. Learn more about memberships, the David Fairchild Society, and other ways to support FONA's work.

Join Us >

We are looking for people to join our growing team! We are currently accepting applications for the following full-time positions:

Volunteer Coordinator & Garden Educator >

This full-time permanent position will support FONA's volunteer efforts and youth programs at our Washington Youth Garden. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, apply no later than February 1, 2024.

School Garden Support Educator >

This full-time year-long position will support the School Garden Support team's work in DC partner schools. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, apply no later than February 5, 2024.

What is it like to work at one of the premiere arboreta in the country? The National Arboretum is accepting applications until January 15th for 2024 horticulture, research, and archive internship positions.

These internships range in length from three months to one year. They offer hands-on work experience and training in horticulture, botany, plant research, or archival duties.

Horticulture Internship Details >

Research Internship Details >

Archives Internship Details >

A 226-year-old bell rang out for the first time at the National Arboretum during a special ceremony on New Year's Day. The hanshō, or traditional Japanese temple bell, was installed above the entrance to the National Bosnai & Penjing Museum's Japanese Pavilion. Monday's ceremony also featured a Zen Buddhist blessing.

The bell was gifted by the National Bell Festival, a nonprofit with a mission of celebrating and restoring bells in America.

Learn More About the Bell and Ceremony >

Native Plant Sale

Saturday, March 23, 2024

Local native plant vendors

Save the date — details to come

Spring into School Gardening

Saturday, March 23, 2024

Free resources for educators, in WYG

Save the date — details to come

Flowering 5K

Sunday, March 24, 2023

Run or walk through collections in bloom

(Members use your discount code)

Details & Registration >

Garden Fair & Plant Sale

Saturday, April 27, 2024

Plants, vendors, and activities

Save the date — details to come