SPEAKER SERIES
The Speaker Series at New England Botanic Garden features a dynamic range of authors, experts, and thought leaders sharing their insights on topics such as horticulture, gardening, conservation, and environmental sustainability. These engaging talks and lectures offer valuable knowledge for both seasoned gardening enthusiasts and those new to the world of plants and ecologically-minded horticulture. Each event provides an opportunity to learn from leading voices in the field and connect with a community of individuals passionate about the natural world.

A Rock and Roll Life – Favorite Chlorophyllians I’ve met along the way
TONY AVENT
Saturday April 12, 11 AM – 12:30 PM | Learn more and register here
Join renowned plantsman Tony Avent as he shares captivating stories of the remarkable plants and unforgettable moments that have shaped his legendary career. Filled with horticultural adventures and botanical inspiration, you won’t want to miss this engaging lecture!
Members: Free; Non-Member Adults: $10.00 (includes admission to the Garden)
Presented by New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill and North American Rock Garden Society

The Wondrous World of Fireflies
SARA LEWIS, Professor Emerita of Biology, Tufts University, and Author of “Silent Sparks”
Wednesday May 14, 7:00 – 8:30 PM | Learn more and register here
Fireflies are among nature’s most enchanting ambassadors, inspiring wonder for centuries. With 30 years of global research and advocacy, biologist Sara Lewis, reveals the science behind their glowing lights and extraordinary lives. Discover how human activities threaten these dazzling insects and how we can help protect them.
Member Adult: FREE; Non-Member Adult: FREE (pre-registration is required)
Member Adult + Book $30.00; Non-Member Adult + Book $30.00 (Reserved copies of Silent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies will be provided at the presentation.)
Celebrating Black History Month and Women’s History Month
Free online lectures hosted by NEBG’s Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee
In celebration of Black History Month and Women’s History Month, New England Botanic Garden’s IDEA Committee is hosting a FREE series of online webinars. Between tuning in for this engaging lineup of talks, be sure to visit the Garden during February and March to explore selections from our Horticultural Heroes exhibit, a portrait collection that spotlights diverse leaders, activists, and innovators who have advanced the art and science of horticulture.
Celebrating Black Contributions Through Art and Nature
COLAH B. TAWKIN
Thursday, February 6, 7pm
Black in the Garden podcast creator Colah B. Tawkin guides attendees through the rich narratives of the Garden’s Horticultural Heroes exhibit, bringing history to life in an innovative and interactive way. Register by January 20 to receive a specially designed Black in the Garden coloring book, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the webinar experience.
Art or Science? The Co-Construction of Botanical Illustration
TRACY QIU
Thursday, March 6, 7pm
“How has the history of botanical illustration influenced the way we perceive plants, gardens, nature, and environment in the present day?” Join Tracy Qiu as she explores the complex stories unearthed from botanical renderings and colonial plant collection during her doctoral research at the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew and Edinburgh.
Horticulture Heroes: Black Faces, White Spaces
CAROLYN FINNEY
Thursday, March 13, 7pm
Storyteller, author, and cultural geographer Carolyn Finney discusses her book, Black Faces, White Spaces: Reimagining the Relationship of African Americans in the Great Outdoors.
New Cancellation Policy
Effective October 15, 2024, cancellations must be made at least 10 days prior to the program to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 10 days in advance are non-refundable. If NEBG cancels a program, registrants will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to another session. For more information, please see the NEBG Education Programs Cancellation Policy. Thank you for your understanding and support!