Workshops

Do you wish you could spend more time in nature but are struggling to find the commitment? Come join Sit Spot Club, facilitated by certified Forest Therapy Guide Giulia Pozzi!

What is a Sit Spot?
A Sit Spot is a special place in nature that you visit regularly.

This quiet, meditative practice will help you soften and relax, be more present, connect to the land, and build community with likeminded people. It also helps with routine building and focus, and best of all? We will witness this beautiful land together as we transition into fall weather!

How does it work?
We will start with an opening circle, after which we will go separate ways to our sit spots. After 40 minutes you will be called back to closing circle, during which we will have the opportunity to share.

What to bring:

• a journal and drawing supplies, if desired
• something to sit on
• water bottle and snacks
• appropriate clothes for the weather

This program is FREE. We are asking you to register so that we have your e-mail address to communicate with you in the case of changes or cancellations due to weather etc. When registering we understand that you may not be able to attend every week, but we would love to see you as often as possible.

Age 12 years old and older. Please note that there is no supervision for youth. If supervision is required an adult must attend with the youth.

Join Giulia, a mother, artist, and certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide in a series of low-key, slow-paced, and restorative Forest Therapy sessions.

Life with a new baby is complex: poor sleep, fussiness, and isolation can all be part of the journey. While there is so much to celebrate, sometimes we also need space to process all the changes that come with parenthood and even grieve aspects of our pre-baby lives. During our time together we will slow down, reconnect to our senses, and allow whatever feelings arise to be gently held by the land, all while witnessing the changing colors of the fall. 

What is Forest Therapy?

It originated in Japan in the 80s, today it is practiced all over the world.

Research shows us the benefits of regular, intentional sessions with nature, which include lower blood pressure and stress levels, relief of low mood states, and increased sense of wellbeing and meaning.

No previous experience is needed.

What to expect:

• Both slow, short walks and sitting, depending on what the land is like
• Gentle, flexible, and accessible invitations will inspire you and your baby to engage with the natural world and each other
• Moments of optional sharing as a group
• A space that honours the realities of caring for a new baby; changing diapers, nursing, crying babies, strollers and carriers, all is welcome!
• Closing tea ceremony (please provide your own snacks).

Bring a blanket, baby carrier (or stroller) for naps and comfort, and all your baby gear and food, plus weather appropriate clothes for you and baby.

Disclaimer: This is not group therapy and Giulia is not a trained psychotherapist. The Forest is the Therapist, the Guide opens the door.

Maximum 20 adults with a child up to 1 year of age (or little older if they can't walk yet).

Fee: $55 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of October 8, 2026. After October 8 the fee is $65 plus HST. Registration is for all 6 sessions. 

Mohawk Creation Story - Thursday, September 24, 2026
The Story of the Flying Head (Scary) - Friday, October 30, 2026 
Guest Storyteller + The story of the Little People - Friday, November 27, 2026
Story of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy - Friday, December 11, 2026

She:kon! Hello! You are invited to join Cara Loft, Haudenosaunee woman, and staff member at the University of Guelph to engage in Indigenous culture and learn about Indigenous storytelling. At the end of each month, we gather together on the Land in the Guelph Arboretum to share in a traditional Indigenous Hand drum song, smudge, Mohawk story and walk on the land (pending weather). Traditionally, the Land has been a guide and teacher to Indigenous peoples on Turtle Island and globally. She has much to teach us and we have much to learn. Come experience what is like to participate in land-based learning in a gentle and engaging way! Nia:wen kowa! Thank you!

This program is FREE. We do ask that if you register and can't make it that you notify us so that someone else can have your spot as space is limited. You can register for one or more of the sessions.

Registration will open approximately one month in advance or just after the previous session.

Come, enjoy a calm outdoor evening, and see the stars! Members of the Kitchener-Waterloo Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be setting up astronomical telescopes for private viewings. Come see winter constellations like Taurus, Gemini, and Orion, as well as star clusters, nebulae, and many other curious objects in the beautiful winter Milky Way. Later, as winter melts into spring, we may even view a few distant galaxies.

Our goal is to run 3 of the following programs:
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. (Moon, Saturn)
Thursday, January 14, 2027, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. (Moon, Saturn)
Thursday, February 11, 2027, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Moon, Saturn, Jupiter & Mars at their best)
Thursday, March 11, 2027, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars)
Thursday, April 8, 2027, 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. (Moon, Jupiter, Mars)
Thursday, May 13, 2027, 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. (Moon, Mercury, Jupiter, Mars)
Thursday, June 10, 2027, 9:00 to 11:00 p.m.(Moon, Jupiter, Mars)

The information in the brackets indicates the principal solar system objects visible at the time.

The weather makes stargazing very unpredictable and therefore hard to schedule. Instead of opening up registration for all of these dates and having to cancel some of them, we are instead going to have everyone who is interested sign up on a list (there is no fee to do this). To sign up on the list click on the link to register for workshops and you will find the link for the list in the list of workshops.

The morning of each of the above listed dates we will send an email out by 10:30 AM to let you know whether the instructors are going to run the program or not. Their decision will be based both on the sky and the weather (ie. if it is forecasted to be excessively cold the program will not run). The registration will open when we send the email out. Anyone can register for the program regardless of whether they are on the sign up list or not.

Fee: $19 (plus HST) per person, per session. Please note these programs are non-refundable once you register and pay for them.

Owls are one of the most recognized and unique bird families out there. What makes them so special? 

This single session program will provide in-depth details into the unique world of owls through illustration. We’ll explore what makes an owl similar, and yet profoundly different from other bird species around us. It is my hope you will have your knowledge expanded and appreciation increased for these cryptic neighbours!

This workshop will be split into 4 sections - each one going into the anatomy, and subsequently adaptations, of a different section of an owl. We will be exploring the head, body, wings, and lastly feet, comparing and contrasting structures with other bird species. Participants will learn each section through drawing it - illustration tips will be provided to help create life-like drawings!

Anyone is welcome, however some of the language may be a bit technical. I will provide a definitions page for slightly more technical terms.>/p>

Please bring a pen and sketchbook.

*Maximum 15 adults. 

Fee: $35 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of January 5, 2027. After January 5 the fee is $45 plus HST.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

Want to take a deeper dive into the owls of Ontario? This workshop builds on our classic Owl Prowl programming and offers an extended, more immersive experience. Participants will explore the detailed ecology of Ontario’s owls, including how to identify species by sight and sound, understand their behaviour and habitat needs, and learn practical tips on the whooooo, what, where, when, and how of looking for them.

The program includes a variety of hands-on activities such as dissecting owl pellets, searching for owls during the daytime, and heading out again after dark for a guided night-time owling session. The workshop takes place both indoors and outdoors, for an experience that combines classroom learning with field-based exploration to give participants a well-rounded, in-depth understanding and appreciation of these remarkable birds.

Maximum 20 people.

Fee: $105 (plus HST) per person, per session if you register by the early bird deadline of January 14, 2027. After the January 14 the fee is $115 plus HST.

REGSITRATION COMING SOON.

 

A How To presentation that takes the user through the whole process of growing plants from seed. It covers topics all the way from collecting seeds to taking care of seedlings. It will explain topics such as cleaning seeds, getting them ready for planting, conditioning seeds, Winter Sowing, and it will look at the best ways to get them into the garden. The presenter grows several hundred varieties each year and will base the discussion on his own experiences.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

Have you ever wondered what made those marks in the snow? In this full day program we will be learning how to track animals. We will be studying the tracks and signs of Ontario mammals and other types of wildlife. By the end of the day you will learn to identify and interpret animal tracks by looking at track patterns and gait analysis. The workshop will also include an introduction to scat identification. There is an outdoor component that will have us looking for and following animal tracks and trails. Please dress in layers to be outdoors and wear comfortable, warm boots. Recommended: Bring a notebook and a measuring tape to help with track identification.

The Arboretum Mammal booklet is included in the registration fee.

Fee: $97 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of January 29, 2027. After January 29 the fee is $107 plus HST.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

 

This course is designed for the new gardener or the gardener that has only been growing vegetables for a couple of years. We’ll start at the very beginning, with ordering seeds and end with a detailed discussion of the 10 best vegetables for new gardeners. Focus is on hardiness zones 4 – 6.

We’ll cover the following topics:
• Creating a new bed and different systems; in the ground, raised beds and growing in containers
• Best soil selection and how to get it ready for the growing season
• When to use seed vs transplants, and starting early indoors
• Dealing with weeds and other gardening tricks
• Watering, sun and fertilizer – keep them growing for a maximum yield
• Harvesting and fall crops
• Common vegetables myths

Robert is a Master Gardener and garden writer who publishes two popular gardening blogs and has published several gardening books. He owns and operates a private botanical garden where he grows over 3,000 different varieties of plants.

Fee: $40 (plus HST) per person. (This fee includes all 4 sessions.)

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

This single-session program will provide a simple, yet rewarding way for beginner and experienced artists alike to create pieces of some of Ontario’s favourite owls! It is my goal to increase the appreciation of the public towards these beautiful creatures, and encourage us to work collaboratively to preserve the natural world. 

This workshop will be broken into 3 primary sections: outlines, values, and textures. In the first section, we’re going to investigate the basics of developing an outline, and provide time to practise and ask questions using the photo of the selected species. Secondly, we’ll look into colour - why do we pick each specific colour, and how do we create shadows and highlights? Lastly, we’ll look into developing texture for our birds - this will add in the final details that will really make your painting pop!

Materials: A small and medium paint brush, basic watercolour palette, and paper are required.

*Maximum 15 adults.

Fee: $35 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of February 9, 2027. After February 9 the fee is $45 plus HST.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

This single-session program will provide a basis on understanding the anatomy of birds through illustration. The program will not only provide attendees with the background to illustrate anatomically correct birds, but will also provide a basic understanding of bird anatomy for introductory birders. It is my goal to increase the appreciation of the public towards these beautiful creatures, and encourage us to work collaboratively to preserve the natural world.  

This program will be broken into 5 sections: anatomy of the head, body, wings, and tail, and then a final section covering the bird as a whole. In each of the first 4 sections, I will go over the basic features that all birds share including the different groups of feathers and structures, and then outline how those structures differ between a few well known families of birds. After the first 4 sections of this workshop are complete, we will then put it all together to illustrate an entire bird, highlighting each of the different feather groups and structures covered from earlier.

The workshop will be 2 hours in length. Each section will be approximately 20 minutes in length, giving enough time for a brief demonstration, practice, and questions. The remaining 20 minutes after the 5 sections are completed will provide an opportunity for further practice, Q&A, and to finish off any material that was not covered in its entirety in its respective 20 minute segment.

Materials: Please bring a sketch book, pencil (mechanical recommended), eraser, and a black or blue pen. 10 different coloured pencil colours are recommended. A portable chair may also be beneficial, as it is more comfortable to sit on.

*Maximum 15 adults.

Fee: $35 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of March 2, 2027. After March 2 the fee is $45 plus HST.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

This program starts by asking a key question, is climate change real, and the answer will surprise you. How does global warming affect gardening and how should we change the way we do things in the garden? What can gardeners do to reduce their effect on CO2 levels? We’ll discuss invasives, tilling, composting, and water use in terms of their impact on the environment. Carbon sequestration in soil is key and this has led to several soil management myths which need to be debunked.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

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Native plants are a great way to support pollinators but along the way, gardeners have started believing a number of myths. This talk will examine some of these myths to provide a better understanding of such things as the role of nativars, butterfly houses, and pollinators that are not bees and butterflies. Which milkweeds do monarchs use? Do butterflies actually pollinate flowers? The role of non-natives in supporting pollinators and can natives be invasive? How important are dandelions and the No-mow movement?

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

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Presentation of a number of gardening myths, including myths about planting trees, natural pesticides are safe, hostas don’t grow in sun, and weed barriers prevent weeds from growing. The topics will use plenty of pictures showing gardens and flowers to keep everyone interested.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

Cuttings are a great way to propagate all kinds of plants including perennials, trees, shrubs and houseplants. This workshop will look at different ways to propagate cuttings and compare them to using seeds. Most of the time will be spent on techniques that use media other than water.

We’ll distinguish between softwood, semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings. Have a look at different media and examine the role of rotting hormones, both commercial and DIY options.

The speaker will show you his simplified method that is great for gardeners since it requires no special equipment.

Fee: $10 (plus HST) per person.

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Explore the hidden details of our native wildlife through the eyes of wildlife artist Chris Macleod. This hands-on workshop will provide the tools to create your own field sketchbook to observe, record, and illustrate the incredible biodiversity around you.  

Our class will begin by outlining some of the key components of a field sketchbook - we’ll learn how to improve our observation skills and slow down in order to best record what is happening around us.

We’ll then have some time to put it into practice. We’ll have some real-time field sketching; we’ll slow down, carefully observe and record, and learn how to do quick sketches to capture texture and form.

Lastly, we’ll learn how to translate our field sketches into a finished watercolour and ink illustration! 

No previous drawing experience is required. This workshop is an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the outdoors, and learn how to translate those observations to the paper!

Materials: Please bring a sketchbook, pencil, and pen.

*Maximum 15 adults.

Fee: $35 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of April 2, 2027. After April 2 the fee is $45 plus HST.

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A breathtaking ascent to the skies, a graceful fall to the ground, and a mesmerizing, yet quirky, call… PEENT. The sky dance of the American Woodcock is a truly incredible spectacle, and we at The Arboretum invite you to join us in a search for this captivating display! Our Woodcock Walk begins at the Nature Centre, where we’ll unveil some of the mystery behind these aerial acrobats before heading into the field with hopes of witnessing their enchanting performance in person.

Fee: $15 (plus HST) per person.

*REGISTRATION COMING SOON.

 

Are you interested in learning how to use sketching as a way to improve your plant identification skills? In this afternoon workshop Mary Anne Young will teach the basics of field botany and how to use sketching as a way to observe and record information to assist with identification. After learning techniques (both fast and slow) for capturing plant form, structure, and beauty we will practice our skills while exploring various collections and natural spaces of the Arboretum. All experience levels welcome.

Please bring the following supplies:
- a sketchbook (min. 6x9” size)
- pencils (one H, one HB, and one 2B recommended)

The art supplies are available for purchase at places such as Wyndham Art Supplies, Michaels, or Dollarama.
An example of the sketchbook:

Fee: $55 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of April 16, 2027. After April 16 the fee is $65 plus HST.

 

This program is offered to specifc groups. If you would like more information please contact us.
Fee: FREE!
This online series is catered to University of Guelph international students and other community members new to Canada. New to the area? Come with us to explore The Arboretum and learn about what you can find in nature throughout the winter, spring, summer, and fall!
Visit the Nature Throughout the Seasons for International Students and New Canadians Series program page to learn more and register for upcoming dates. Please note that at this time this program is being offered to a special group instead of as a public program. If you are part of a group that is interested, please contact us for further information.