As autumn begins, we offer three special after-hours programs to celebrate the spooky side of plants! Connected to our current exhibit "Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise," we have three new evening programs, including our first-ever partnership with the International Spy Museum! Register to join us for one or all three!
An Evening of Poisons and Potions
Sip sinister spirits and wicked potions with the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden as you wander through the Garden after-hours and explore the frightful tales in our exhibit “Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise.” Dare to dress as your favorite dangerous plant, and you just might snag a spooky prize!
Through the evening, sink your roots into frightfully fun activities! Show off your botanical pop culture knowledge in trivia or stir up an autumn potion that’s dangerously delicious. Mix a variety of spices and dried fruit to create your own custom mix to use at home at a DIY mulling spice bar! Your ticket includes one hauntingly good cocktail or mocktail. Additional bites and brews will be available for purchase.
Attendees have the opportunity to join the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden at a discounted rate. All proceeds from this event support the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that inspires active environmental stewardship by hosting educational programs with the U.S. Botanic Garden. To learn more about their work or membership program, visit www.USBGFriends.org.
This event is presented through the support of the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden.
Intended Audience: Adult All Levels (21+)
Friday, October 17, 2025
6:00 PM to 8:30 PM Eastern
Location: Conservatory
Cost: $35 (USBG Friends receive a discount)
Pre-registration required. Must be 21+ to attend. Register at https://usbg.swoogo.com/Poisons-Potions-Evening-Event_Oct25
Trick or Fruit (On-site Family Program)
xplore plants that produce edible fruits throughout the Conservatory during this fun evening program for families. Hear stories about what makes each plant interesting, learn about the environments they grow in, and experience the fruits with all of your senses – including taste. Costumes highly encouraged!
This program is offered in collaboration with the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden. If you're interested in supporting educational programs through a donation to the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden, click here.
Intended Audience: Families
Friday, October 24, 2025
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Eastern
Location: Conservatory
FREE: Pre-registration required. Register at https://usbg.swoogo.com/Trick-or-Fruit_Oct25
USBG After Dark: Pick Your Poison (with the International Spy Museum)
Experience the magic of the U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory at night! Join USBG Executive Director and botanist Dr. Susan Pell in conversation with experts Amanda Ohlke from the International Spy Museum and Dr. Melissa Whitaker as they discuss plant-based poisons and their use in espionage throughout the ages. You’ll hear how and why so many plants have evolved toxic compounds and learn how human spies have used these powerful poisons to advance the goals of their spymasters in the shadows. Come with curiosity and leave with a new appreciation for the dark and delectable side of plants.
- 6:30-7:15 p.m.: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a selection of seasonal cocktails, mocktails, and delicious small plates available for purchase from local vendor Vintage Views. Explore the USBG’s “Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise” exhibit, learn about specific USBG collections plants that could be helpful or harmful (including ones featured in your beverage!), and test your plant-based invisible ink skills.
- 7:15-8 p.m.: Panel discussion begins at 7:15 p.m.
- 8-8:30 p.m.: Following the discussion, chat with Dr. Pell, guest panelists, and fellow attendees. You’ll be able to grab another drink and enjoy special access to explore the Conservatory after hours. Doors close at 8:30 p.m.
Please note: Attendees of this program must be 21 and older. Food and beverages, as well as seating, will be limited. To guarantee your opportunity to find a seat and enjoy a drink and a snack, please arrive when doors open at 6:30 p.m.
This program is connected to our current exhibit “Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise.” It is offered in collaboration with the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden and the International Spy Museum. If you're interested in supporting educational programs through a donation to the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden, visit www.usbgfriends.org. If you’d like to know more about the International Spy Museum, visit www.spymuseum.org/.
Intended Audience: Adult All Levels (ages 21 years and older)
Thursday, October 30, 2025
6:30 PM to 8:30 PM Eastern
Location: Conservatory Garden Court
FREE: Pre-registration required. Register at https://usbg.swoogo.com/Pick-Your-Poison_Oct25