(5 ½ - 12 yrs.) Join Abrakadoodle to design wind sculptures, craft squishy paper toys and sculpt colorful hearts. Explore the works of world-renowned artists like Dale Chihuly, Yinka Shonibare and Maurizio Cattelan. This camp is perfect for those who enjoy imagining big and creating boldly. No camp June 19 and July 3.

The application fee and approval are required for this registration.

(12-Adult) Discover how people of the past patched, stitched and darned to mend worn clothing. See and touch examples of mending techniques. Learn how to thread a needle, make basic stitches and sew on a patch to extend the life of your own garments. Materials will be provided.

(7-11 yrs.) Let nature be your classroom as you experiment outdoors with different art media. Our colorful gardens, streams, ponds and woodlands provide creative inspiration. Each day features different artists and art forms, honing your creative skills as you create your own work of art.

(16-Adult) Expert basket maker Sharon Shaeffer will guide you through each step of the process to creating your own apple basket perfect for pick apples or decorating your home. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this class offers inspiration, instruction and everything you need to get started. Class breaks for a half hour for lunch. Bring a lunch.

(16-Adult) Join expert basket maker Sharon Shaeffer for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn the art of basket weaving from start to finish. Sharon will guide you through each step of the process to creating your own multicolored tote perfect for the upcoming farmers market season. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this class offers inspiration, instruction and everything you need to get started. Class breaks for a half hour for lunch. Bring a lunch.

(12-Adult) Join award-winning author P. O’Connell Pearson for an engaging exploration of her acclaimed book Fighting for the Forest: How FDR's Civilian Conservation Corps Helped Save America. Discover the true stories of the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) who helped restore America’s landscapes into National Parks during the Great Depression. Then bring it to life by designing erosion-control structures in groups to explore the real-world impact of these young environmental pioneers. Wrap up the program by planting a tree together, honoring the legacy of the CCC and making a lasting contribution to the future of Fairfax County forests. This program links to the VA250 and Fairfax250 commemoration.

(16-Adult) Each season features a thoughtfully chosen novel with botanical or garden themes. You'll gather twice—first for a pre-reading welcoming circle to meet fellow readers, enjoy refreshments, receive your guide and then again post-reading for a lively book discussion and a hands-on activity that brings the story to life. From hidden gardens to wild landscapes, members explore rich, immersive stories that celebrate growth, connection and the natural world—one season at a time. Spring read: The Twilight Garden by Sara Nisha Adams. Activity: Botanical Twilight Garden Collage. Program meeting dates are Mar. 21 and May 23.

(16-Adult) Learn how to create a botanical journal to experiment and to improve your drawing skills. Engage in drawing exercises, a seasonal walk through the garden to gather inspiration, dedicated time to work on a botanical study page, and learn tips on layout and media options. Start in pencil, then transition to a project in watercolor or colored pencil. A list of suggested materials will be sent prior to class start. Class meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

The application fee and approval are required for this registration.

(16-Adult) Colored pencils and acrylic layering is a fantastic technique for building up soft textures, sharp edges, and rich colors. Drawing from colorful photographs or still-life objects of flora and fauna, artist Dawn Flores helps you explore the techniques used to take colored pencils a step beyond their traditional use. Supply list will be emailed before class. Bring a lunch.

(Adults) Modern medical and scientific knowledge is often used to investigate ailments and causes of death of historical figures and ordinary people. Hear what we do and don’t know about the long-ago demises of past residents of Historic Green Spring as we consider the practice of retrospective diagnosis. Discover potential pitfalls in attempting to diagnose “historical patients.”

(16-Adult) Explore the beauty of butterflies and their dependence on plants for their life cycle. Use specimens or photographs to study and illustrate them. Artist and instructor Caroline Hottenstein shows you how to use the media of your choice - a micron pen, watercolor, graphite or colored pencils to capture and highlight details. Previous drawing experience encouraged. A supply list will be emailed before class. Bring a lunch.

(7-11 yrs.) Dig deep into Virginia’s history, from the age of the dinosaurs and ancient plants through the revolutionary war to current times. Try your hand at archaeology while you handle artifacts found right here at Green Spring. Explore local geology and learn about the secrets of soil and the critters that live beneath our feet. Featuring daily nature walks, crafts, and experiments. This program links to the va250 and Fairfax250 commemoration.

(6-9 yrs.) Explore the enchanting lands of Green Spring Gardens with different activities, from daily scavenger hunts looking for magical creatures to fantastical nature-themed games, stories and crafts. Help us add homes to our fairy village in the forest.

(7-Adult) Celebrate Earth Day by exploring the spirit of Pachamama. Take a nature walk to reflect on her significance, then create portraits using natural materials to express what she means to you. Craft a personal pledge to carry with you as a reminder of your connection to the Earth. All attendees must be registered.

(5-Adult) Come learn about the sensational world of seeds as we examine our seed collection, explore how seeds travel and take a walk to find seeds. Then make a chia seed pet to take home. All attendees, including parents, must be registered for the program.

(16-Adult) Learn from Green Spring Gardens' historian about the rich history of how edible flowers have enhanced dishes for centuries by adding flavor, beauty and symbolism. Blend culinary tradition with Victorian artistry as you try your hand at crystallizing petals. Take home your candied creations and tips for using flowers as elegant, edible decorations.

(16-Adult) Explore the art of contemporary floral arranging using natural branches and seasonal flowers cultivated at Green Spring Gardens. Horticulturist, Parker Jennings guides you in creating a striking winter arrangement that emphasizes balance, line, and form. Discover how to transform simple materials into an elegant, sculptural centerpiece that reflects the quiet beauty of the season. Please register for the workshop and the $30 supply fee.

(Adults) Experience Green Spring Gardens with all your senses. Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide and co-founder of local nonprofit Capital Nature, Ana Ka’ahanui, for a slow, meditative walk around the gardens. Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, this contemplative walk inspires interaction with the surrounding nature in a way that will help reduce blood pressure, boost immunity and enhance mood and creativity. Decompress and feel a deeper connection with the natural world. The experience concludes with a soothing spot of tea, offering a moment to reflect and savor the essence of nature. Bring something to sit on the ground, which may be damp, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather.

(10-Adult) Calling all young artists and nature explorers. Create and personalize your own sketch journal, then head outdoors to spot and illustrate vibrant new blooms as we say goodbye to the winter season. Connect with the natural world and capture the beauty around you.

(6-Adult) Ignite your creativity with an exploration of fire’s role in nature and everyday life. Learn how fire supports different ecosystems, brings us together around campfires, and fuels our traditions through cooking. Then, create a vibrant fire-themed mobile that reflects the many ways fire is special to you. All attendees, including parents, must be registered for the program.

(10-Adult) Celebrate spring through scent and creativity. Explore the garden’s earliest blooms on a sensory walk, then craft a personal scent using natural ingredients that capture the fresh, floral notes of the season. All attendees must be registered.

(5-Adult) Spring is a beautiful time for flowers. Enjoy a walk through the gardens and the native plant trail as we check out what's in bloom. Learn how different colors attract different pollinators. Then we will make a spring flower craft. All attendees, including parents, must be registered for the program.

(8-Adult) Slow down, breathe deep and connect with nature. Take in the garden, using your senses to discover its sights, scents and sounds. Then settle into breathwork and gentle yogic movement to invite in grounding, and a deeper relationship with the Earth. All attendees must be registered.

(4-6 yrs.) Curious minds explore nature on “seek-and-find” walks and daily visits to the garden as they learn about plants, animals and food. Enjoy nature crafts, stories, games, puppets and songs. Children must be potty-trained. No camp June 19.

(2-4 yrs.) Your preschooler will enjoy nature-themed activities and crafts while you meet other playgroup parents one Monday a month. Through games, songs, activities and a garden walk, we will explore seasonal topics. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who does not need to register for the program. Siblings under 3 welcome to accompany parent without registering.

(3-5 yrs.) Your preschooler enjoys nature-themed toys and puzzles while you meet other playgroup parents one Monday a month. Through games, songs, activities and a garden walk we explore seasonal topics. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who does not need to register for the program. Siblings under 3 welcome to accompany parent without registering.

(16-Adult) Learn how to turn garden and yard waste into valuable compost to use throughout your yard and garden. Learn how easy it can be to save money by making your own. Extension Master Gardeners show what you need to do to have your own compost pile.

(16-Adult) Liven up space in your home by adding beautiful indoor plants. Discover easy care, low light and other and tips to keep them thriving. Extension Master Gardeners will show you some of the toughest, most resilient plants available. You’ll be amazed at the wide selection.

(16-Adult) Branch out and try something different in your garden. Extension Master Gardeners will introduce you to an incredibly diverse selection of spectacular native annuals and perennials that are sure to expand your gardening possibilities.

(16-Adult) The no man’s land between street and sidewalk don’t often support healthy lawns. They can host thriving gardens that dramatically improve their surroundings. Extension Master Gardeners show you how to add curb appeal and give wildlife an urban stopover for shelter and food.

(16-Adult) Rock gardens add a special look to any landscape. Extension Master Gardeners will teach you how to design and plant a beautiful display with fabulous small and dwarf perennials and evergreens. Not only do these plants boast great longevity, but they require little maintenance.

(Adults) Learn how to plan, plant and grow your food in an environmentally friendly way. Extension Master Gardeners show you how to get the most out of your spring kitchen garden and enjoy home grown vegetables before the heat of summer.

(16-Adult) Enjoy a day steeped in beauty, tradition, and history. Begin the day with a tour of the newly renovated Gilded Age mansion of Maymont and the surrounding gardens, including the elaborate Italianate and sublime Japanese gardens. Enjoy an afternoon tea at the Jefferson Hotel. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Trip departs Green Spring Gardens at 8am and returns at 5pm. Includes motor coach, admission and tea. Trip cancellation deadline: May 13.

(Adults) Enjoy a memorable day trip to Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson. Explore the beautifully preserved estate, gardens and exhibits that offer insight into Jefferson’s life and legacy. Savor a delicious lunch at the Monticello café, featuring fresh, locally inspired fare. Afterwards, browse the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants, where you’ll find unique seeds, herbs and garden gifts inspired by Jefferson’s horticultural interests. Bus departs Green Spring Gardens at 7 a.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Cancelation deadline: April 7. This program links to the VA250 and Fairfax250 commemoration.