Special Events
Fright at Night
Friday, Oct 17 | 5:00-7:30P
Come in costume and see what poisonous plants grow in the shadows of the Conservatory, plus enjoy Halloween carnival games! Registration is required in advance for all attending.
Candlelight Walk
Dec 5-7 | 5:30-7:30P
Enjoy the beauty of the season with a Candlelight Walk. Visit Santa in Mrs. Claus’ holiday garden, drop your wish list in his mailbox, and receive a special treat from Santa! Enjoy holiday music and refreshments.
Seed Swap
Sunday, Jan 25 | 11:00A-2:00P
Join us at the Oak Park Conservatory on National Seed Swap Day to honor the great U.S. tradition of swapping seeds with neighbors. Browse a selection of herb, vegetable, floral, perennial, and native seeds. No registration required.
We will have expert gardeners on hand to guide you in getting your garden off to a good start. Please label your seed donations with the variety, source, and year when possible. Note: The first hour (11:00A-12:00P) is open to FOPCON members only.
Shamrock Scavenger Hunt
Tuesday-Sunday | Mar 3-16 | 10:00A-4:00P
Join the hunt to find shamrocks that the leprechaun scattered around the Conservatory! Prizes will be awarded to those that find all seven lucky shamrocks hidden among our plants. Living shamrocks will also be available for sale. No registration required for this event.
KidsFest
Stay tuned for 2026 dates!
This year we’re all about raptors! Celebrate the wonders of our planet with activities presented by our community partners.
Natural Areas Guided Tours
Stay tuned for 2026 dates!
Join us for a guided tour of our parks’ natural areas. Learn about the plants you see growing, the different habitats in our parks, and the ways we support our pollinators. You will also learn some park history.
OPRF Garden Walk
Stay tuned for 2026 dates!
Celebrate our 32nd annual Garden Walk in Oak Park and River Forest! Enjoy a self-guided tour featuring unique private and public gardens.
Uncorked
Stay tuned for 2026 dates!
Enjoy an evening of music and drinks at the Oak Park Conservatory Rubinstein Garden. Admission includes two drink tickets, an appetizer, and a guided tour of the showrooms. Presented by the Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory.
Plant & Tool Exchange
Stay tuned for 2026 dates!
Join other gardeners and share your favorite plants and extra tools at our free, annual spring exchange. Please bring at least one healthy plant from your garden or a houseplant to participate in the swap and be sure to label your plants!