Forest Fridays
2025-01-24 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Help restore Van Cortlandt Park’s vital urban forest! Join our Forest Friday events to remove invasive plants like multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry. Your efforts will create space for native plants to thrive and support the long-term health of this 640-acre ecosystem.
What We’ll Do:

Identify and remove invasive plants such as multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry.
Work with hand tools to clear designated areas, making way for native species.
Learn about forest ecology and restoration techniques from experienced volunteers.

When:
Fridays: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Please arrive on time – we leave for the site by 10:15 AM).
Where:
Van Cortlandt Park – Meet at the Garden & Compost Site [Link to map or more specific directions]
What to Bring:

Dress in Layers: Wear long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat to protect yourself from thorns and the elements. Avoid puffy coats as they can snag easily. Old sweatshirts are a good choice.
Gloves and Tools: We provide gloves and all necessary tools, but feel free to bring your own work gloves if you prefer.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Enthusiasm for conservation!

RSVP Now.

Woodlawn Wednesdays
2025-01-29 10:00 - 13:00
Please Note: We are canceling Wednedsay 1/22 due to low temps.
Help restore the beautiful woodlands on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park! Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers like you play a vital role in preserving this important urban ecosystem.
What You’ll Do:
Each week, we’ll focus on hands-on tasks that vary with the seasons.
You might be:

Removing Invasive Species: Help us tackle invasive plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica, which threaten our native flora.
Maintaining Trails: Ensure trails are clear and accessible for all park visitors.
Planting Native Species: Contribute to the forest’s future by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.

No experience is necessary! We provide all tools and gloves. You’ll also learn about native plants, invasive species management, and forest ecology from experienced volunteers.
When:
Wednesdays, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
(Please arrive on time – we leave for the worksite by 10:15 AM).
Where:
Meet outside the handball courts at the Woodlawn Playground on the park’s east side.
What to Bring:

Long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
Your enthusiasm for conservation!

RSVP Now.

Mid-Winter Family Fun Hike
2025-02-17 10:00 - 12:00
This event has been cancelled due to the forecast for chilly temps and high wind gusts.

Bronx Parks Speak Up
2025-02-22 11:00 - 17:00
BRONX PARKS: Where Rivers Run and Nature Grows
Saturday, February 22nd
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lehman College Faculty Dining Room, Music Building
(Bx10 or Bx26 bus, D or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd.)
PANEL DISCUSSION:
River Seekers: Why Bronx Waterfront Access is So Important— and So Difficult
WORKSHOPS:
• Clean Waters, Stronger Communities: Restoring Bronx Waterways
• Grant & Funding Opportunities
• Reclaiming the Harlem River Waterfront for People and Nature
• The Ripple Effect: How Water Pollution Affects Communities and How We Can Help
PRESENTATIONS:
• Play Fair for Parks: Bronx Advocacy in Action
• Vital Parks for All
RSVP Now.

Woodlawn Wednesdays
2025-03-05 09:00 - 12:00
Help restore the beautiful woodlands on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park! Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers like you play a vital role in preserving this important urban ecosystem.
Each week, we’ll focus on hands-on tasks that vary with the seasons including:

Removing Invasive Species: Help us tackle invasive plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica, which threaten our native flora.
Maintaining Trails: Ensure trails are clear and accessible for all park visitors.
Planting Native Species: Contribute to the forest’s future by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.

No experience is necessary! We provide all tools and gloves. You’ll also learn about native plants, invasive species management, and forest ecology from experienced volunteers.
Meet outside the handball courts at the Woodlawn Playground on the park’s east side.
What to Bring:

Long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
Your enthusiasm for conservation!

RSVP Now.

Trail Work Thursdays
2025-03-06 09:00 - 12:00
Be a part of the community effort to maintain the trails in Van Cortlandt Park. Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or new to trail maintenance, your help will make a significant impact!
Meeting Details:
Location: Van Cortlandt Park, Garden and Education Compost Site, across from Riverdale Stables.
Time: 9 am sharp; work begins at 9:15 am
Upcoming Activities Include:
Clearing debris and overgrowth
Ensuring trail safety and accessibility
Desire line closures
What to Bring:
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Closed-toed shoes
Water and a snack
Why Join Us?
Contribute to the vitality and safety of the trails you love! Engage with fellow community members, learn about trail maintenance, and enjoy the satisfaction of hands-on work in the great outdoors.
Necessary tools and gloves will be provided!
Want to bring a group? This event is limited to small groups of 5 or less. If you would like to bring more 6 or more people please reach out to stewardship@vancortlandt.org to schedule a separate event.

RSVP Now.

Forest Fridays
2025-03-14 09:00 - 12:00
Note: Forest Friday on 3/7 has been canceled due to the wind advisory.
Help restore Van Cortlandt Park’s vital urban forest! Join our Forest Friday events to remove invasive plants like multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry. Your efforts will create space for native plants to thrive and support the long-term health of this 640-acre ecosystem.

Identify and remove invasive plants such as multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry.
Work with hand tools to clear designated areas, making way for native species.
Learn about forest ecology and restoration techniques from experienced volunteers.

Meet at the Garden & Compost Site
What to Bring:

Dress in Layers: Wear long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat to protect yourself from thorns and the elements. Avoid puffy coats as they can snag easily. Old sweatshirts are a good choice.
Gloves and Tools: We provide gloves and all necessary tools, but feel free to bring your own work gloves if you prefer.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Enthusiasm for conservation!

RSVP Now.

Goodbye to Winter: Sunset Equinox Hike
2025-03-19 18:00 - 19:30
Join us for a magical equinox sunset hike in Van Cortlandt Park. This easy 1.5-mile hike to Vault Hill and back offers an unforgettable farewell to winter, enriched with plant identification and scenic views. Perfect for those looking to welcome spring with open arms.
Event Details:

When: March 19, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:34 PM
Where: Meeting spot – Southern end of Van Cortlandt Golf House
Route: Scenic hike to Vault Hill, suitable for all fitness levels. Expect a moderate climb to reach Vault Hill.
Capacity: 25 participants. Registration required; waitlist available
Activities: Plant identification, visit to Vault Hill Cemetery, discussion on equinox significance. Collective send off to winter and welcome of spring.
What to Bring: Weather-appropriate clothing, light-colored attire, camera, flashlights (if desired), and water.

Celebrate the equinox with us as we say goodbye to winter and welcome the fresh beginnings of spring in a community of nature lovers.
RSVP Now.

Birding with NYC Bird Alliance
2025-03-29 09:00 - 10:30
Explore Van Cortlandt Park’s ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long tradition of birding in the park. We will look for various species of resident and migratory birds and discuss a wide range of avian topics. Each walk will be led by a NYC Bird Alliance (formerly NYC Audubon) guide.
Advance registration is required. You must register separately for each date you would like to attend.
Birding sessions meet at 9am on the following dates:

Saturday, March 29
Sunday, April 27
Saturday, May 24

Note: We do not provide binoculars and suggest that attendees bring their own.
RSVP Required.
As space is limited, if you are not able to attend please let us know ASAP so we can fill in your spot by emailing info@vancortlandt.org.
These events are funded by NFWF’s Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program.
Photo by Jack Rothman

Urban Environmental Challenge 10K
2025-03-30 10:00 - 12:00
Van Cortlandt Track Club has organized this amazing race in the park for decades!
This year, they are donating all proceeds to Van Cortlandt Park Alliance to help maintain the cross country trail.

Sunday, March 30, 2025, 10:00 a.m. start time
In the case of bad weather, the race goes on!
$35 pre-registration, $40 race day. (8:30-9:30 only)
Special discounts for runners aged 14 to 18, and for veterans.
All registered participants will receive a small race souvenir.
Awards:

Overall male and female 10k winners will receive a delicious carrot cake from our sponsor, the famous Lloyd’s Carrot Cake
Second and third place 10k finishers and age group winners will receive Lloyd’s Carrot Cake muffins.

A portion of your race fees go to support the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance for trail maintenance and youth programs.

For further race information, please contact Rhashida Hilliard, race director, at uec@vctc.org or vctconline@gmail.com
Register now.

Woodlawn Wednesdays
2025-04-02 09:00 - 12:00
Woodlawn Wednesdays: Forest Restoration at Van Cortlandt Park
Help restore the beautiful woodlands of Van Cortlandt Park’s east side! Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers like you play a vital role in preserving this important urban ecosystem.
What You’ll Do
Each week, we’ll focus on hands-on tasks that vary with the seasons.
You might:
Remove Invasive Species: Tackle harmful plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica tree that threaten our native biodiversity.
Maintain Trails: Keep paths clear, safe, and welcoming for all park visitors.
Plant Native Species: Contribute to long-term forest health by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.
No experience needed! We provide all tools and gloves. You’ll also learn about learn about forest ecology, plant ID, and restoration techniques.
When:
Meet at 9am: Please arrive on time – we depart for the worksite by 9:15 AM)
Where:
Meet outside the handball courts at Woodlawn Playground: located on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park
What to Bring:
Long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
Your enthusiasm for conservation!
RSVP Now.

Forest Fridays
2025-04-04 09:00 - 12:00
Help protect and restore the forests of Van Cortlandt Park — one of NYC’s most ecologically significant green spaces.
Join our Forest Friday crew to remove invasive species like multiflora rose, porcelain berry, and bittersweet. Your hands-on work will create space for native plants to return and help this 640-acre urban ecosystem thrive for generations to come.
🛠️ What We’ll Do:

Identify and remove invasive plants (e.g. multiflora rose, bittersweet, porcelain berry)
Use hand tools to clear priority zones and prepare them for native species
Learn about forest ecology, plant ID, and restoration techniques from experienced staff and stewards
A bit of spring planting!

📅 When:
Fridays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Please arrive by 9:00 — the group departs for the site at 9:15 sharp
📍 Where:
Van Cortlandt Park – Garden & Compost Site
(Meeting location; we’ll hike to the work site together)
🧰 What to Bring:
Dress in Layers: Long pants (canvas/denim), long sleeves, and a hat — protect yourself from thorns and weather. Avoid puffy jackets.
Gloves & Tools: Provided! Bring your own gloves if you’d like.
Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe footwear required
Other: Reusable water bottle, snacks, and a spirit of stewardship
RSVP Now.

Bocce & Tennis Courts at Indian Field Volunteer Event
2025-04-05 10:00 - 12:00
Join VCPA and Women of Woodlawn as we clean up the Bocce and Tennis Courts to get ready for Family Fun Day!
Volunteers will meet up at the Bocce Courts inside the park off of E. 233rd just north of Van Cortlandt Park at 10am. Once the Bocce Courts are in good shape we will shift to the other end of Indian Field to work on the Tennis Courts.
All tools and gloves will be provided.
RSVP Now.

Cross Country Course Volunteer Days
2025-04-05 10:00 - 13:00
Be a part of the community effort to maintain the Cross Country Trail in Van Cortlandt Park. Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or new to trail maintenance, your help will make a significant impact!
Event Dates and Times:
First Saturdays of the Month from April to August from 10am to 1pm.*
*Please note that May 3rd will be for groups of 10 or more only. Please email garcialeslie@vancortlandt.org to schedule a group.
*Please note that due to the July 4th Holiday, the July event has been moved to the second Saturday.
Meeting Details:
Location: Van Cortlandt Park, Garden and Education Compost Site, across from Riverdale Stables.
Time: 10 am sharp; work begins at 10:15 am
Upcoming Activities Include:
Clearing debris and overgrowth
Repairing trail structures
Ensuring trail safety and accessibility
What to Bring:
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Closed-toed shoes
Water and a snack
Why Join Us?
Contribute to the vitality and safety of the trails you love! Engage with fellow community members, learn about trail maintenance, and enjoy the satisfaction of hands-on work in the great outdoors.
Necessary tools and gloves will be provided!
RSVP Now.
Volunteer Policy for Minors

Ages 15 – 17A parent or guardian must sign and submit a volunteer waiver. Once the waiver is on file, the minor may participate without an accompanying adult.
Ages 12 – 14A parent or guardian must accompany the minor and remain on-site for the entire project.
Under 12Children may volunteer only at events specifically labeled family-friendly and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Want to bring a group? This event is limited to small groups of 9 or less. If you would like to bring more 10 or more people please reach out to garcialeslie@vancortlandt.org to schedule a separate event.

Tune-Up Tuesdays
2025-04-08 10:00 - 13:00
Turnip to volunteer!
Volunteers will help care for our garden, maintain compost bins, weed, water, and harvest produce. No gardening experience needed – just show up in clothing you will be comfortable getting dirty in!
Join us on the following Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm:

July 8
July 22
August 12
August 26

Enter the park at Broadway & Mosholu Ave.
Come once, twice, or for as many sessions as you’d like!
RSVP Now.
Groups of 5+ must register as a unit via email to gardening@vancortlandt.org
Volunteer Policy for Minors

Ages 15 – 17: A parent or guardian must sign and submit a volunteer waiver. Once the waiver is on file, the minor may participate without an accompanying adult.
Ages 12 – 14: A parent or guardian must accompany the minor and remain on-site for the entire project.
Under 12: Children may volunteer only at events specifically labeled family-friendly and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Woodlawn Family Fun Day
2025-04-12 13:00 - 16:00
EVENT POSTPONED TO JUNE 28, 2025. MORE DETAILS TO COME.
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance, Women of Woodlawn and Woodlawn Taxpayers Association Present Woodlawn Family Fun Day With a Special Ceremony to induct Van Cortlandt Park’s woodlands into the prestigious Old-Growth Forest Network!
Special thank you to our partners:

NYC Parks
Women of Woodlawn
Woodlawn Taxpayers Association
Council Member Eric Dinowitz
New York Road Runners
Old-Growth Forest Network

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council.

Family Fun Nature Walk
2025-04-16 11:00 - 12:30
Start your family’s Spring Break off with a walk through VCP with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance!
In this free guided hike, families will hit the trails while learning about amazing local wildlife, and how the park changes seasonally.
Afterwards, (weather permitting,) join us for a nature craft and themed activities!
Date: Wednesday, April 16th
Time: 11am – 12:30 pm (The hike will start at approximately 11:10 am)
Meeting Point: In front of the Van Cortlandt Golf House, right before hitting the Lake House Cafe.

We’ll be outside the whole time; dress appropriately for the weather
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Recommended for ages 3+.
There will not be space available to leave strollers/bikes/scooters during our hike
Friendly and well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome!

RSVP Now.
For any questions, please e-mail gardening@vancortlandt.org

Family Fun: Freshwater Friends
2025-04-17 11:00 - 13:00
Spring Break Family Fun: Freshwater Friends
What sort of critters live underneath the waters in Van Cortlandt Park?
Is the pond a healthy ecosystem? How can we tell?
What in the world is an aquatic macroinvertebrate?
Come explore the ecosystem of Hester & Piero’s Mill Pond with us to find out!
In this hands-on exploration station, your family can observe and identify some of the insects found in the pond, without even getting your feet wet!
Date: Thursday, April 17th
Time: 11am – 1pm
Meeting Point: North of Van Cortlandt Golf Lake House
RSVP Now.
This workshop is intended for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

City Nature Challenge 2025
2025-04-27 10:00 - 13:00
Join the global City Nature Challenge! Cities around the world collect data throughout the spring but at Van Cortlandt Park, you can identify macroinvertebrates and other wildlife from the pond. VCPA sets up “leaf packs” in advance to increase the diversity of creatures you will find! There will also be guided “mini-hikes” around the area to collect more observations. This is a unique and special opportunity!
RSVP Now.
What to Expect:

Macroinvertebrate Discovery: We’ll have leaf packs set up in advance to attract aquatic critters—dip in and see what’s living in the pond!
Guided Mini-Hikes: Join short walks to explore different habitats and log more species.
iNaturalist Tips: VCPA staff will be on hand to help you use the iNaturalist app and make high-quality observations.
Snacks + Stats: At the end, we’ll regroup for refreshments and celebrate the biodiversity snapshot we created together.

Why It Matters:
Your observations contribute to real data that informs conservation, community science, and the future of our park. Plus—it’s fun, eye-opening, and a great way to connect with nature in the Bronx.
How to Prepare:

Download iNaturalist and set up your account before the event. Join the “Van Cortlandt Park Nature Network” under Projects. Our greenspace race project is here – https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2025-van-cortlandt-park
Dress for Exploration: Closed-toe shoes, long pants, sunscreen, bug spray, water, snacks, and battery backup if you’ve got it.

Forest Fridays
2025-05-02 09:00 - 12:00
Help protect and restore the forests of Van Cortlandt Park — one of NYC’s most ecologically significant green spaces.
Spring is here, and the forest is waking up. Join our Forest Friday crew to remove invasive species like multiflora rose, porcelain berry, and bittersweet. Your hands-on work will make room for native plants to thrive — and help this 640-acre urban ecosystem regenerate for generations to come.
What We’ll Do:

Identify and remove invasive plants (e.g. multiflora rose, bittersweet, porcelain berry)
Use hand tools to clear restoration zones and prepare them for native regrowth
Learn about forest ecology, plant ID, and urban restoration techniques
Get your hands in the soil — a bit of spring planting included!

RSVP Now.

Pinkster Festival
2025-05-03 12:00 - 16:00
RAIN OR SHINE!
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Pinkster at this year’s Pinkster Festival hosted by the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance, Van Cortlandt House Museum, and Kingsbridge Historical Society. Join us on the picturesque lawn of the Van Cortlandt House Museum for a day filled with vibrant festivities, live music, engaging performances, and immersive experiences.

Live Music with Chief Baba Neil Clarke, Master Percussionist
Story of Pinkster with the Pinkster Players
Stories with April Armstrong, Master Storyteller
Tours with Carla & Keyes, History Interpreters
Make Art with Tijay Mohammed, Artist
Afro-Dutch Cooking Demonstration with Cheyney McKnight (weather permitting)

PLUS: African crafts for sale! Food will not be available for sale.
RSVP Now.
WHAT IS PINKSTER?
Once a major holiday in 17th century New York, Pinkster is the Dutch name for the Christian event of Pentecost.
For enslaved and free people of African descent, Pinkster morphed into a unique holiday that incorporated African rituals, traditions, and pride. It is considered New York’s first African American holiday!
To learn more about Pinkster watch this video of captivating discussion with local historians, Lavada Nahon and Chief Baba Neil Clarke, as they unravel the significance of Pinkster, exploring its cultural, social, and historical importance.
Supported by:
NYC Councilmember Eric Dinowitz
NYC Department of Cultural Affairs
NYC Department of Youth and Community Development
NYS Council on the Arts
This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council.
This event is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

Wetland Wednesdays
2025-05-07 09:00 - 12:00
Join Van Cortlandt Park Alliance for Wetland Wednesdays — a year-round opportunity to participate in hands-on conservation in one of NYC’s most dynamic and vital ecosystems.
Each week, we take on timely tasks in the floodplain, supporting the biodiversity and resilience of Van Cortlandt Park’s wetlands. As we approach summer, we’re especially focused on preparing for the arrival of water chestnut — a fast-spreading aquatic invasive.
🛠️ What to Expect:

Seasonal Focus: Spring tasks include early maintenance in wetland edges and floodplains, with projects adjusting based on water levels and ecological need.
Hands-On Involvement: Prepare to get a little muddy or wet — you’ll be directly contributing to active restoration.
All Equipment Provided: Waders, gloves, and tools are supplied.

RSVP Now.

Springtime Shindig 2025
2025-05-15 18:00 - 21:00
Cocktails • Lite Bites • Dessert • Music • Picturesque Setting • Raffle
HONOREES
Betty Campbell-Adams Park Angel Award:
Herb Barret, Korean War Veteran & Memorial Grove Advocate
Cultivating the Bronx Award:
James Hendon, Commissioner of NYC Department of Veterans’ Services
Visit our Springtime Shindig Page to purchase tickets or become a sponsor.

Woodlawn Wildflower Area Beautification
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00
Join us for a special weekend edition of stewardship in the Woodlawn section of Van Cortlandt Park! Volunteers like you play a vital role in protecting this unique urban ecosystem — from pollinator gardens to forest understories.
Tasks: Weeding, bed prep, and supporting native plants that benefit bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
WHERE TO MEET:
Outside the handball courts at Woodlawn Playground
(East side of Van Cortlandt Park)
WHAT TO BRING:

Long sleeves and pants (canvas or denim recommended)
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
A spirit of stewardship and curiosity

RSVP Now.

Woodlawn Forest Restoration
2025-05-17 13:00 - 16:00
Join us for a special weekend edition of stewardship in the Woodlawn section of Van Cortlandt Park! Volunteers like you play a vital role in protecting this unique urban ecosystem.
Tasks: Removing invasive species (like multiflora rose and bittersweet), trail care, and planting native woodland species.
No experience needed! All tools and gloves provided. Learn about plant ID, forest and pollinator ecology, and restoration techniques from experienced staff.
WHERE TO MEET:
Outside the handball courts at Woodlawn Playground
(East side of Van Cortlandt Park)
WHAT TO BRING:

Long sleeves and pants (canvas or denim recommended)
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
A spirit of stewardship and curiosity

RSVP Now.

West African Dance Workshop with Live Drumming
2025-05-17 14:00 - 16:00
Get up and dance to live West African Drumming with Yahaya Kamate and friends. West African dance energizes mind, body, and spirit and opens the heart to cultural connections. Fun for the whole family… parents and kids of all ages are welcome. Yahaya Kamate is a master drummer and a teaching artist with the Bronx Arts Ensemble. This program is part of VCPA’s Reimagining the Enslaved African Burial ground initiative. FREE!
Location: Enslaved African & Kingsbridge Burial Ground behind the Tennis Courts.
Parking is available in the Van Cortlandt Golf Lot. No driving inside the park.
RSVP Suggested.
This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council.

After Holiday Weekend Clean Ups
2025-05-27 09:00 - 12:00
Join the Van Cortlandt Park staff in cleaning up the Park after holiday weekends.
Help Van Cortlandt Park staff clean up trash after holidays this year:
Tuesday, May 27th (after Memorial Day weekend)
Monday, June 16th (after Father’s Day weekend)
Monday, July 7th (after July 4th weekend)
Tuesday, September 2nd (after Labor weekend)
Meeting at 9am in front of the Van Cortlandt Golf Course Clubhouse – enter the park at Van Cortlandt Park South and Bailey Avenue.
We will provide gloves and materials to help keep this park in tip-top shape.
RSVP Now.

Spring Tea
2025-06-01 14:00 - 17:00
New Date: Please note we are moving to Sunday, 6/1 due to the weather forecast for Saturday.
Tea Culture & Arts and Bronx River Art Center are joining us for an afternoon nature hike, tea experiences, poetry and papermaking.
RSVP Required
Featuring:
Nature Walk 2pm
With Van Cortlandt Park Alliance staff
Tea experiences from 2:30pm
With Nizar Gartit for Moroccan Tea
Garden herbal tastings
and more
Odes to Common Things Poetry from 2:30pm
With Robin Lampman
Washi Paper Making from the Paper Mulberry Tree from 2:30pm
with Michele Brody the Bronx River Art Center
This program is partially funded by a 2025 Cultural Immigrant Initiative grant from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, Councilman Eric Dinowitz of Council District #11.

Afterschool EcoHike
2025-06-02 15:30 - 16:30
Children in grades K-5 and their parents/guardians will take a walk, learn about local plants, and explore nature in VCP!

In this free guided hike, families will hit the trails while learning about amazing local wildlife, and get to fill out a Nature Journal provided by EcoHikes!
EcoHikes for children is a chance for students to explore the outdoors, learn about the environment, and take action to help their community. Through these experiences, we hope to create future leaders who care about protecting the natural world.
Meeting Point: In front of the Van Cortlandt Golf House, right before hitting the Lake House Cafe.
Important Details:

We’ll be outside the whole time; dress appropriately for the weather
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Recommended for ages 6+.
There will not be space available to leave strollers/bikes/scooters during our hike
Friendly and well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome!

For any questions or accommodation requests/concerns, please e-mail gardening@vancortlandt.org

RSVP Now.

Trail Work Thursdays
2025-06-05 09:00 - 12:00
Help Maintain the Trails that Keep the Park Connected
Be part of the community crew that cares for Van Cortlandt Park’s trails! Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or trying trail work for the first time, your effort makes a real difference in keeping these paths accessible and safe.
📍 Meeting Details:
Location: Garden & Education Compost Site, just across from Riverdale Stables
🛠️ What We’ll Be Doing:
• Clearing debris, branches, and overgrowth
• Closing “desire lines” (unofficial paths) to protect habitats
• Ensuring trail safety and erosion control
• Learning best practices in trail care and stewardship
🧰 What to Bring:
• Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes (required)
• Reusable water bottle and snacks
• We’ll provide gloves, tools, and guidance!
RSVP Now.

Volunteer Policy for Minors

Ages 15 – 17
A parent or guardian must sign and submit a volunteer waiver. Once the waiver is on file, the minor may participate without an accompanying adult.
Ages 12 – 14
A parent or guardian must accompany the minor and remain on-site for the entire project.
Under 12
Children may volunteer only at events specifically labeled family-friendly and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
