Special Events
Seed Exchange
Jan 28
Join us at the Oak Park Conservatory on National Seed Swap Day from 1:00-3:00P to honor the great U.S. tradition of swapping seeds with neighbors. Browse a selection of herb, vegetable, floral, perennial, and native seeds.
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.
Shamrock Scavenger Hunt
Mar 12-17
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.
KidsFest
Apr 21
Check out bugs through a magnifying glass and say hello to live animals! Celebrate the wonders of our planet with activities presented by our community partners.
Plant & Tool Exchange
May, Sep
Join other gardeners and share your favorite plants and extra tools at our 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!
OPRF Garden Walk
Jun 23
Celebrate our 30th annual Garden Walk in Oak Park and River Forest! Enjoy a self-guided tour featuring unique private and public gardens.
Uncorked
Jun 28, Jul 26, Aug 23, Sept 27
Enjoy an evening of music and drinks at the Oak Park Conservatory! Celebrate summer in the Rubinstein Garden with friends under the starry night sky.
Fright at Night
Oct 20
Join us in costume for this popular annual event at the Oak Park Conservatory. The Boo-tanical Conservatory promises to put you in the Halloween spirit! Find which poisonous plants are lurking in the corners.
Candlelight Walk
Early Dec
Take in the beauty of the season with a Candlelight Walk. Children can get their photo taken with Santa among the poinsettias and drop their wish list in his mailbox. While you’re here, enjoy some holiday music and refreshments.
Letters to Santa
Dec 1-22
Visit the Oak Park Conservatory to drop off your letter to Santa in our Santa Express mailbox.