Celebrate Arbor Day with activities at Morton Arboretum
On Arbor Day weekend, the Morton Arboretum in Lisle invites area residents to celebrate trees and all of the benefits they provide - from cleaning the air and reducing the need for energy to beautifying our communities - with a number of special activities.
Arbor Day has significant meaning at the arboretum, 4100 Route 53 in Lisle, because Julius Sterling Morton, father of Morton Arboretum founder Joy Morton, was a lover of trees and founded the holiday in 1885.
It's believed that Arbor Day started a shift in American public opinion from forest destruction toward conservation. National Arbor Day is the last Friday in April, but many states observe Arbor Day on different dates according to their best tree-planting times.
As a champion of trees, the arboretum works through the efforts of its staff and volunteers toward its mission to protect and plant trees through research and conservation efforts. The arboretum's Arbor Day events include tree-themed activities in the Children's Garden, as well as the fifth annual Arbor Day 10K.
• The fifth annual Arbor Day 10K Race begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, April 19. A USATF-certified course, the Arbor Day 10K takes runners along the winding roads of the arboretum and will be followed by a new post-race party featuring live music and a complimentary beer for each adult participant.
• "Dress like a Tree, Get in Free" Friday, April 24. Outfits can range from a simple green T-shirt, a green hat and brown clothes to a full-blown costume masterpiece. Younger participants can also take part in the Tree-rific Kids' Costume Contest beginning at 10:30 a.m.
• Arbor Day Weekend Celebration in the Children's Garden takes place Friday to Sunday, April 24 to 26. Kids plant tree seeds and hunt for five unique trees throughout the Children's Garden all weekend long. Other hands-on activities recognizing Arbor Day take place each day.
• Arbor Day Tree Planting with Curious George takes place from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Friday, April 24. During a visit from Curious George and The Man in the Yellow Hat, enjoy a group reading of "Curious George Plants a Tree" and join in a tree planting in the Children's Garden.
• Arbor Day Plant Sale is noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 25, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26. Shop an array of distinctive, hard-to-find plants from more than 300 species of trees, shrubs and flowers. All plants have been recommended by arboretum experts. Those seeking guidance on the right plants for their landscape can consult with roaming Plant Geniuses.
Nonmember admission to the Morton Arboretum is $14 for adults, $9 on Wednesday; $12 for seniors 65 and older, $8 on Wednesday; $9 for ages 2 to 17, $6 on Wednesday; and free for younger children. Members receive free general admission all year long.
The arboretum is open 7 a.m. until sunset daily. For information, visit mortonarb.org.