Rising NYRR at the Cross Country Course #3
2024-11-24 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
Kids of all ages and abilities can experience the joys of cross country running in Van Cortlandt Park!
Registration for this event is FREE and open to participants ages 2 to 18 of all abilities.
Every finisher will receive a New Balance souvenir.
Hosted by VCPA supporter, New York Road Runners.

VCTC's Lettuce Run Turkey Trot
2024-11-28 09:00 - 10:00
A Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving!
Organized by the Van Cortlandt Track Club, this fun run will benefit the Friendly Fridge BX Community Food Hub at 242nd Street.
Bring your whole family and get some exercise before your big meal.
Register Now.

Forest Fridays
2024-12-06 09:00 - 12:00
Join Us for Forest Friday Events This December!
🌳 What: Forest Restoration in the Northwest Forest
📅 When: Fridays, December 6th, 13th, and 20th
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (please arrive on time – we leave for the site by 9:15 AM)
📍 Where: Van Cortlandt Park – Garden & Compost Site (link)
Description
Help preserve Van Cortlandt Park’s 640 acres of urban forest this December! Through our Forest Friday events, we’ll focus on removing invasive plants like multiflora rose, bittersweet, and porcelain berry to restore balance to our ecosystem.
Multiflora rose is a particularly invasive species that poses a serious threat to native plants. Your efforts will create space for biodiversity to thrive and support the long-term health of our forest.
Activities Include:
• Invasive Species Removal: Target multiflora rose and other invasive plants to protect the forest ecosystem.
• Forest Restoration: Prepare key areas for native plants to reclaim their space.
• Hands-on Conservation: Engage in rewarding activities alongside fellow volunteers.
What to Bring:
• Dress Smartly: Layer clothing for warmth, and wear denim or canvas to avoid snags when working with thorny plants like roses. Puffy coats aren’t ideal for this type of work. Old sweatshirts are better.
• Gloves and Tools: We provide long gloves and tools, but feel free to bring your own if preferred.
• Sturdy, weather-appropriate shoes
• Water and snacks
• Enthusiasm for environmental conservation!
RSVP Now.

DIY Wreath Making Workshop
2024-12-14 11:00 - 14:00
Come join us for a fun and creative wreath making workshop where you’ll learn to make your own beautiful wreath….from harvest to finish!
After a short hike in the park to pull and collect invasive bittersweet, learn how to mold the twisted woody vine into a wreath, ready to decorate with a mix of festive natural and artificial materials. This DIY workshop is perfect for environmental enthusiasts, craft-lovers, and anyone who wants to spread festive cheer!
Everyone will get to go home with their own unique holiday wreath.
No prior experience or knowledge required.
Workshop takes place outside, please dress for the weather.
All supplies (including hot cocoa and cookies!) will be provided…you provide the creativity!
Get Your Tickets!
Please purchase 1 ticket for every person attending. Each person will take home a wreath. Space is limited and tickets are required. Ticket price includes materials fee.

General Admission (age 17+): $25
Junior Admission (age 10 -16): $15
Junior Admission ticket holders must be accompanied by an adult with a GA ticket.

Raindate and Cancellation Policy:

Ticket sales will not be refunded and will be considered a donation to Van Cortlandt Park Alliance if you cannot attend the workshop on December 14th. (If your fee is converted to a donation, it will be considered fully tax-deductible.)
In the event of rain, the workshop will be moved to Sunday, December 15th and attendees will be notified by Friday, December 13th.
If VCPA changes the date due to rain, you will have the option of a refund if you are unable to attend on December 15th.

How the Earth Answers
2024-12-17 18:00 - 19:30
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance and Van Cortlandt House Museum present a poetry reading by poet and Bronx byproduct David Mills.
David Mills will read from a new, yet-to-be-published poetry collection, How the Earth Answers, focused on slavery in the Bronx.The reading will be held on the third floor (accessible via stairs only) of the Van Cortlandt House Museum, adjacent to an area identified as the quarters inhabited by the enslaved people who toiled and lived on the plantation.
RSVP Now.
The Enslaved People Project
This reading is part of a series of Van Cortlandt Park Alliance’s ongoing programs and continued efforts to educate the community about the Enslaved People of the Van Cortlandt Plantation.
The Story Behind How the Earth Answers
Most folks who live in the Bronx—and maybe in all five boroughs—have heard of Van Cortlandt Park, Hunts Point, Pelham Parkway, and Morrisania. But how many know that slavery took place in each of these neighborhoods, all in the name of families like Van Cortlandt, Hunt, Pell, Morris, and Berrian? The Morrises and Van Cortlandts owned large plantations worked by people they had enslaved. In fact, New York’s plantations were part of the larger, hideous slavery ecosystem, providing provisions for sugar, cotton, and tobacco operations in the southern states and Caribbean.
All combined, Manhattan, the Bronx, and modern-day Westchester served as the “breadbasket” for the American colonies throughout the 1700s. For a long time, David Mills wondered if there had been slavery in the Bronx, the borough of his youth. With grant funding, he conducted considerable research and wrote a number of poems about slavery in the Bronx during this last year. Now he no longer wonders.
Still, he questions how he grew up in the Bronx and never heard about its slaving past. He played sandlot football in Van Cortlandt Park and baseball for the Pelham Park Sox as a teenager, frequently visited an aunt in Morrisania, and dated a woman from Hunts Point. Yet he only discovered, in his late 30s, that the borough that shaped him played such a significant role in our country’s slaving past.
Through his evocative writing and passionate reading, David Mills will share his Bronx slavery poems with you. Thoughtful conversation follows the reading.
About David Mills
David Mills holds an M.F.A. from Warren Wilson College and an M.A. from New York University in creative writing. He has published four poetry collections: Boneyarn (Manhattan slavery poems); After Mistic (Massachusetts slavery poems); The Sudden Country; and The Dream Detective. His poems have appeared in Ploughshares, Colorado Review, Fence, Crab Orchard Review, Jubilat, Callaloo, Brooklyn Rail, and Obsidian.
Space is limited so advance registration is required.
This program 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.

Woodlawn Wednesdays
2024-12-18 09:00 - 12:00
Please Note: We have canceled the event on December 11 due to rain.
Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers help restore the woodlands on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park. Tasks vary by season and focus on invasive species removal, trail maintenance, and planting native species to promote a healthy forest ecosystem.
What to Expect:
• Seasonal work: Removing invasives, planting trees, maintaining trails.
• Hands-on tasks: Use tools provided to help restore the forest.
• Supplies: Gloves, tools, and necessary equipment provided.
What to Bring:
• Long sleeves, pants, and sturdy shoes
• Water and snacks
• Enthusiasm for conservation!
Location:
📍 Meet at outside the handball courts at the Woodlawn Playground on the park’s east side.
Why Join?
Help preserve the woodlands, contribute to forest restoration, and make a lasting impact on this critical urban ecosystem.
RSVP Now.

CANCELLED Welcoming Winter: A Family Nature Walk
2024-12-21 10:00 - 12:00
Due to the very cold real feel temperatures and high winds forecasted for Saturday we have cancelled this event.
In this free guided hike, families can hit the trails while learning about amazing local plants and animals, and how the park changes in the colder weather.
Afterwards, join us for a nature craft and themed activities!
Meet at VCPA’s Garden and Compost Site – enter the park at Broadway and Mosholu Avenue.

We’ll be outside the whole time; dress appropriately for the weather
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Recommended for ages 3+
Participants must be able to travel on unpaved, uneven trails for up to a mile
Strollers/bikes/scooters can be left at our garden space during the duration of our hike
Friendly and well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome!

Cozy Craft-ernoon - Family Winter Crafts
2024-12-23 10:00 - 12:30
Come lean into the Winter season with Van Cortlandt Park Alliance!
Create whimsical seasonal crafts, or just color and warm up with some hot chocolate and sweets!
This program is open to children of ages 3-11 and their parents/caregivers.
FREE drop-in event, all materials will be provided.
RSVP is encouraged, but not required.
Event will be held in 100 Van Cortlandt Park S. (Community Room 9 on Gale Place in Amalgamated Houses.)

Hatsuhinode (初日の出): New Year’s Day Sunrise Hike and Meditation
2025-01-01 06:30 - 08:30
Start 2025 with intention and tranquility. Join us on January 1st for a peaceful sunrise hike in Van Cortlandt Park. Let nature inspire you.
Begin the New Year with a moment of beauty and connection. Join us for Hatsuhinode—the Japanese tradition of welcoming the first sunrise—on a peaceful hike through Van Cortlandt Park.
Led by Yoshiko Mori and Noel Hefele, this event offers space to reflect, connect with nature, and celebrate fresh beginnings. Starting at VCPA’s Garden, we’ll hike to a scenic overlook to watch the sunrise. Yoshiko will share insights about the cultural meaning of Hatsuhinode, and together we’ll embrace the day’s first light as it transforms the park and paints the horizon.
Afterward, enjoy an optional walk along the Cass Gallagher trail, soaking in the fresh morning air and the hope of the year ahead.
Details

Date: January 1, 2024
Time: 6:45 AM – 8:30 AM (approx.)
Location: VCPA’s Educational Garden & Compost Site
Cost: Free (RSVP required)

What to Bring

Dress warmly in layers
Bring a hot drink (BYOHB)
Wear sturdy shoes for a steep hike

RSVP Required.

Forest Fridays
2025-01-10 10:00 - 13:00
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.

Mulchfest 2025
2025-01-11 10:00 - 14:00
Recycle your holiday tree by bringing it to Van Cortlandt Park, where the VCP Forest Restoration Crew will chip it into mulch!
Trees can be dropped off prior to Mulchfest. For more information about drop-off locations throughout the city, visit NYC Parks’ Mulchfest page.

Event held in the “free lot” near the Van Cortlandt Golf Course.
As you drive in from Bailey Avenue, it will be the first parking lot on your left.

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!

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