Scott Arboretum & Gardens

Garden Design Basics Workshop
2026-06-13 09:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Are you ready to turn your yard into a more thoughtful, functional, and beautiful garden? This introductory workshop is designed for gardeners and homeowners who are starting their garden design journey, either with a blank slate or an established garden in need of rejuvenation.
The workshop will begin with a brief presentation covering essential design principles, how to observe and approach a garden space, and how to develop ideas that fit your site, lifestyle, and budget. You’ll also learn what questions to ask when working with a garden designer or contractor, helping you communicate your goals and make informed decisions.
Following the presentation, participants will spend the majority of the class on an inspirational walk through Scott Arboretum & Gardens, using real landscapes to explore design concepts for their own home and spark new ideas. Participants will be encouraged to discuss, ask questions, and take notes for reference. A garden journal and pen will be provided to take home.
No prior design experience is required—just curiosity and a desire to learn how to start your garden design with confidence.
Registration is now closed.
About the Presenter
The workshop will be led by David Mattern, Horticulturist at Chanticleer, where he cares for the Teacup Courtyards and Vegetable Garden. David holds a degree in Landscape Contracting with an emphasis on design and a minor in Horticulture, and is a graduate of the Professional Horticulture Program at Longwood Gardens, where he is also an instructor. His gardening experience includes work in England and South Africa, and he frequently writes, teaches, and lectures on gardening.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Green Roof Tour
2026-06-17 17:00 - 18:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at the Arboretum. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour, sharing their insights and expertise while you explore one of the many green roofs on campus. All participants must be 18 or older.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Solstice Yoga and Sound Bath
2026-06-20 18:00 - 19:15 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
This program is a partnership with the Park Avenue Community Center to promote health and wellness throughout our community.
Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening of tranquility and renewal in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater. As the golden hues of sunset wash over the open sky, join us for a gentle yoga flow designed to awaken your senses and align your body with the rhythm of the season.
Following the movement practice, surrender to the soothing vibrations of a live sound bath, featuring crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. Let the harmonious tones guide you into deep relaxation as you soak in the natural beauty of the amphitheater.
Come as you are, bring a mat or blanket, and embrace the magic of summer’s arrival in this serene, open-air setting.
Though this event is free, please consider making a donation of $10 while registering to support our educational programs.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
We recommend this event for adults and children ages 10 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This event will be held in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
This event will move to an indoor location in the event of inclement weather.
Bring a water bottle and yoga mat or towel.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.

About the Presenters
Mary Thompson, E-RYT 200, YACEP, first discovered yoga to maintain balance and strength throughout her career in federal law enforcement. As a teacher, Mary creates a nurturing space for students to experience yoga as a gateway for transformation and growth, and as a modality of life-long wellness. Mary is a certified Yoga for Healthy Aging teacher, and the founder of Sanctuary Yoga, a spiritual wellness ministry at Trinity Church, Swarthmore. Mary is also the Director of Adult Programs and Health & Wellness at the Park Avenue Community Center, where she creates programming and offerings to serve and support the health and wellness needs of the Delaware County community. When Mary first moved to Swarthmore, her daily walks through the Arboretum with her family and dogs inspired her to volunteer at Scott Arboretum & Gardens, where she recently served as President of Council to the Scott Associates. Mary deeply appreciates the Scott Arboretum & Gardens as a place for all generations to share, learn and experience year-round horticultural beauty.
Audrey Uchimoto, AKA Sound Baths by Aud, is a passionate sound healer based on the Main Line of Philadelphia. Certified in Sound Healing and Crystal Singing Bowls, Audrey uses the therapeutic application of sound frequencies and vibrations to align individuals’ energetic fields and brain waves into a state of harmony and peace.
Audrey entered the sound healing community in 2017 while living in Los Angeles. Since returning to her East Coast roots, Audrey has been bringing the healing power of sound baths to local yoga and wellness studios and retreats, as well as in her home studio.
Her collection of sound healing instruments allows Audrey to create a mixture of harmonic and binaural tones that give her sound bath attendees a deeply profound, one-of-a-kind experience accessing the inner layers of their subconscious through sound vibrations.

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Early Summer-Blooming Perennials
2026-06-26 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Take your lunch break virtually and explore beautiful summer blooming perennials with our horticulture staff. Tune in on our YouTube channel.

In-Person Highlights Tour
2026-06-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take your lunch break to explore early summer blooms throughout the Arboretum & Gardens. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour, sharing their insights and expertise with attendees.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Members-Only Experience: Forest Bathing
2026-07-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Due to the forecast of extreme heat, we are rescheduling this program for September. Details to come! Thank you for your understanding, and please stay safe during the heat.
Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice that invites participants to slow down and connect with nature through the senses. Join Campus Engagement Manager Sue MacQueen in the Crum Woods for a guided members-only experience of this calming approach. Over the course of two hours, Sue will lead the group with gentle prompts to notice the sights, sounds, textures, and scents of the forest. The pace is slow, but participants should be able to walk up to 1.5 miles over steep, uneven terrain and sit on the forest floor.
Because of the quiet, reflective nature of the program, this is an adults only event.
Become a member of the Scott Associates to attend this event!
Accessibility

This program is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Participants must be able to walk on unpaved, hilly surfaces for about 1.5 miles, with exposed roots and rocks.
Participants must also be able to sit on the forest floor.

Program Details

This members-only event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
The tour will depart from the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.
Please note this hike has a different departure location than other tours.

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the meeting location.

Woody Plant Conference
2026-07-17 09:00 - 16:30 | Lang Performing Arts Center, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, United States
Mark your calendars for the 30th annual Woody Plant Conference at Scott Arboretum & Gardens. This popular, day-long conference focuses on great woody plants for the Mid-Atlantic region and how to use them in the landscape.
This conference is co-sponsored by Chanticleer, Longwood Gardens, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and the Scott Arboretum & Gardens.
The conference is ideal for professionals in the horticulture and landscape field, and avid gardeners.
Learn More

Green Roof Tour
2026-07-22 09:00 - 10:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at the Arboretum. A member of our horticulture staff will lead this tour to lend their insights and expertise while you explore one of the many green roofs on campus. All participants must be 18 or older.
We are currently experiencing issues with our online registration system.
To register, call 610-328-8025.
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

In-Person Highlights Tour
2026-07-25 14:30 - 15:30 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take a leisurely tour of Scott Arboretum & Gardens to explore flowering highlights and shady areas. After the tour, enjoy the music of the Chester Children’s Chorus at their free summer concert on campus.
We are currently experiencing issues with our online registration system.
To register, call 610-328-8025.
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Patriotic Plants
2026-07-30 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Celebrate America 250 with this virtual tour!
Take your lunch break virtually to explore plants with patriotic roots throughout Scott Arboretum & Gardens to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. Tune in on our YouTube channel.

In-Person Highlights Tour
2026-08-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take a leisurely evening tour of Scott Arboretum & Gardens with a member of our horticulture staff.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Summer Crum Woods Hike
2026-08-15 09:00 - 10:30 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join us for a refreshing summer hike through the beautiful Crum Woods! This guided hike is the perfect opportunity to explore the lush greenery, shaded trails, and scenic views of this hidden gem. Along the way, we’ll discover native plants, listen to birdsong, and maybe even spot some woodland wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, this is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of August in the woods!
We recommend this hike for adults and children ages 8 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Register Here
Accessibility:

This program is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Participants must be able to hike on unpaved, hilly surfaces for about 2 miles, with exposed roots and rocks. There is a ~.3 mile walk from the parking area to the departure location.
Email us if you have other accessibility needs for this program.
Please note this tour has a different departure location than other tours.

Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
This tour leaves from the base of the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater
Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the meeting location.
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Sun, Shade, and Summer Leaves
2026-08-27 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Take your lunch break virtually to explore how sun and shade shape late-summer gardens, revealing rich foliage textures, layers, and plant forms across Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Tune in on our YouTube channel.

Nature Nook Fall Session
2026-09-11 10:00 - 10:45, 2026-09-25 10:00 - 10:45, 2026-10-02 10:00 - 10:45, 2026-10-09 10:00 - 10:45 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Calling all little nature explorers! Join us at Scott Arboretum & Gardens for mornings full of singing, stories, crafts, and dancing. Each session is seasonally themed around nature and the garden. This program is designed for children ages 2 to 5 years old with a caregiver.
Registration Cost:
Members: Free
Non-Members: $55
ACCESS Cardholder: $2; call 610-328-8025 to register.
The registration cost for non-members includes a one-year family membership to the Associates of Scott Arboretum & Gardens. Learn about membership here.
SOLD OUT
Program Details

Registration is required and includes all 6 sessions.
Class size is limited.
Please note there is no class on 9/18 or 10/16, but families are still welcome to come explore the Arboretum.
Registration includes participation for up to 4 children and up to 2 caregivers.
Sessions will start in the Wister Center with a story and craft, followed by a short walk to explore a garden.
Scholarships funded by The Abby Outdoor Initiative, Inc., a Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Ohara School of Ikebana Exhibition Meet & Greet
2026-09-17 16:00 - 18:00 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
As the seasons begin to shift, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Ohara School of Ikebana will present a special floral exhibition celebrating the beauty and abundance of the garden. Ikebana, also known as the “way of flowers,” is the art of Japanese flower arrangement and is subtle, sensitive, sophisticated, and meditative. It utilizes flowers, leaves, and branches, as well as unexpected and unconventional materials to create striking seasonal designs.
Join us before the exhibition opens for this exclusive opportunity to enjoy the exquisite floral arrangements and converse with the arrangers. Registration includes individual sushi boxes, sake, and other traditional Japanese refreshments.
Register Here
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
About ACCESS
Scott Arboretum & Gardens proudly participates in the Art-Reach ACCESS program. Pennsylvania ACCESS/EBT cardholders, and Art-Reach ACCESS cardholders may receive $2 tickets for the cardholder and up to 3 guests. This discount may not be valid for special events or sold out events, or combined with other discount offers. Visitors must show their ACCESS card and valid photo ID on the day of the program. For more information about the ACCESS program, please visit art-reach.org/access.

Ohara School of Ikebana Exhibition
2026-09-18, 2026-09-19 | Wister Center, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
The Delaware Valley Chapter of the Ohara School of Ikebana will present an exhibition in celebration of the changing of the seasons from summer to fall. Ikebana, also known as the “way of flowers,” is the art of Japanese flower arrangement and is subtle, sensitive, sophisticated, and meditative. It utilizes flowers, leaves, and branches, as well as unexpected and/or unconventional materials.
Members of the Ohara School of Ikebana will be available to answer questions about the art form and arrangements displayed throughout the exhibition.
This event is free and open to the public.
Schedule:
Thursday, September 17

4:00 – 6:00 pm: Meet and Greet with the Exhibitors – registration required [Link to Meet and Greet page]

Friday, September 18

12:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Exhibition open to the public
2:00 – 2:30 pm: Ohara School of Ikebana Demonstration
5:30 – 6:00 pm: Ohara School of Ikebana Demonstration

Saturday, September 19

10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Exhibition open to the public
11:00 am – 12:00 pm: In-Person Highlights Tour of Scott Arboretum & Gardens
12:00 – 2:00 pm: Ikebana Flower Arranging Make-and-Take for All Ages

Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.

Members-Only Experience: Forest Bathing
2026-09-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice that invites participants to slow down and connect with nature through the senses. Join Campus Engagement Manager Sue MacQueen in the Crum Woods for a guided members-only experience of this calming approach. Over the course of two hours, Sue will lead the group with gentle prompts to notice the sights, sounds, textures, and scents of the forest. The pace is slow, but participants should be able to walk up to 1.5 miles over steep, uneven terrain and sit on the forest floor. Afterwards you are welcome to enjoy the Ohara School of Ikebana Exhibition.
Because of the quiet, reflective nature of the program, this is an adults only event. Please note this program has a different departure location than other tours.
Become a member of the Scott Associates to attend this event!
Accessibility

This program is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Participants must be able to walk up to 1.5 miles over steep, uneven terrain and sit on the forest floor.
Email us if you have accessibility questions about this program.

Register Here
Program Details

This members-only event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
This is an adults-only event.
The tour will depart from the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081. Then, following the event/parking signs, continue to drive to Swarthmore College’s North entrance and park in the free Whittier parking lot.
Once you park, Arboretum directional signs will guide your walk from the parking lot to the tour departure location at the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.

In-Person Highlights Tour
2026-09-19 11:00 - 12:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Take a mid-day stroll through our gardens with a horticulture professional to learn about the abundance of September blooming plants. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts of all levels are welcome. Before or after your tour, be sure to stop by the Wister Center to experience the Ohara School of Ikebana Exhibition, a beautiful Japanese flower arranging exhibition.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens office (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Green Roof Tour
2026-09-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Learn about the inner workings, benefits, sustainability, and beauty of green roofs at the Arboretum. A member of our expert horticulture staff will lead this exploration of one of the many green roofs on campus. All participants must be 18 or older.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Scott Arboretum & Gardens offices (Cunningham House).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Virtual Lunchtime Tour: Magnificent Meadows
2026-09-24 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual Meeting
Take your lunch break virtually as you explore the magnificent meadows at Scott Arboretum & Gardens with one of our expert horticulturists. Discover how these dynamic landscapes provide year-round beauty while supporting pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Learn about the diverse collection of native and ornamental grasses, perennials, and flowering plants that create texture, movement, and seasonal interest throughout the meadow. Gain insights into meadow design, plant selection, and sustainable management practices as you take a closer look at this vibrant garden space. Tune in on our YouTube channel to learn more and be inspired by one of Scott’s most ecologically rich landscapes.

Autumn Yoga and Sound Bath
2026-09-26 10:00 - 11:15 | Scott Outdoor Amphitheater, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
This program is a partnership with the Park Avenue Community Center to promote health and wellness throughout our community.
Celebrate autumn with a morning of tranquility and renewal in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater. Join us for a gentle yoga flow beneath the tulip poplar trees as you awaken your senses and align your body with the rhythm of the season.
Following the movement practice, surrender to the soothing vibrations of a live sound bath, featuring crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. Let the harmonious tones guide you into deep relaxation as you soak in the natural beauty of the amphitheater.
Come as you are, bring a mat or blanket, and embrace the magic of autumn in this serene, open-air setting.
Though this event is free, please consider making a donation of $10 while registering to support our educational programs.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
This event will be held in the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.
This event will move to an indoor location in the event of inclement weather.
Bring a water bottle and yoga mat or towel.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025

Driving/Parking Notes

Navigate to 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081 and follow the event/parking signs to Swarthmore College’s North entrance.
Free parking is available in the Whittier parking lot.
Arboretum directional signs will direct you from the parking lot to the Scott Outdoor Amphitheater.

About the Presenters
Mary Thompson, E-RYT 200, YACEP, first discovered yoga to maintain balance and strength throughout her career in federal law enforcement. As a teacher, Mary creates a nurturing space for students to experience yoga as a gateway for transformation and growth, and as a modality of life-long wellness. Mary is a certified Yoga for Healthy Aging teacher, and the founder of Sanctuary Yoga, a spiritual wellness ministry at Trinity Church, Swarthmore. Mary is also the Director of Adult Programs and Health & Wellness at the Park Avenue Community Center, where she creates programming and offerings to serve and support the health and wellness needs of the Delaware County community. When Mary first moved to Swarthmore, her daily walks through the Arboretum with her family and dogs inspired her to volunteer at Scott Arboretum & Gardens, where she recently served as President of Council to the Scott Associates. Mary deeply appreciates the Scott Arboretum & Gardens as a place for all generations to share, learn and experience year-round horticultural beauty.
Audrey Uchimoto, AKA Sound Baths by Aud, is a passionate sound healer based on the Main Line of Philadelphia. Certified in Sound Healing and Crystal Singing Bowls, Audrey uses the therapeutic application of sound frequencies and vibrations to align individuals’ energetic fields and brain waves into a state of harmony and peace.
Audrey entered the sound healing community in 2017 while living in Los Angeles. Since returning to her East Coast roots, Audrey has been bringing the healing power of sound baths to local yoga and wellness studios and retreats, as well as in her home studio.
Her collection of sound healing instruments allows Audrey to create a mixture of harmonic and binaural tones that give her sound bath attendees a deeply profound, one-of-a-kind experience accessing the inner layers of their subconscious through sound vibrations.

Hidden Gardens: A Fall Celebration
2026-09-26 16:00 - 18:00 | Martin Hall, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, 19081
Celebrate the beauty of fall at Scott Arboretum & Gardens during this free, family-friendly event. Discover hidden corners of the gardens through a self-guided tour or join a horticulturist for a guided experience. Enjoy seasonal bites, live music, and hands-on nature activities surrounded by vibrant autumn color.

Entangled Life: Book Discussion Group
2026-09-28 18:00 - 19:00 | Scott Horticultural Library, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, 19081, United States
Put your inky caps on and button mushroom up your coats as the Scott Arboretum & Gardens celebrates Fungi Fest with a mycorrhizal book discussion. In preparation for Dr. Merlin Sheldrake’s visit to campus, we will be talking about his book Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds and Shape Our Futures. Readers who attend can expect to explore mycological themes in small groups with Arboretum staff.
Book copies can be borrowed from the Scott Horticultural Library and Swarthmore College’s digital library resources. Additional copies can be borrowed from the Free Library of Philadelphia, the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (accessible through Libby to all PA residents), Delaware County Libraries, and Montgomery County Pennsylvania Library District. Books will also be available for purchase from the Swarthmore Campus and Community Bookstore.
This is a free event, but registration is encouraged.
Register Here
More Fungi Fest Events:

Accessible Mushroom Tour – Thursday, October 1 from 3 to 4 pm
Entangled Life: A Conversation with Merlin Sheldrake part of Cooper Series – Thursday, October 1 from 6 to 7:30 pm
See complete list of Swarthmore’s Fungi Fest programs here.

Program Details

This is a free event, but registration is encouraged.
Group is limited to 30 participants.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025.

Accessible Mushroom Tour
2026-10-01 15:00 - 16:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Josie Low, Swarthmore College senior, will lead attendees on a walk through Swarthmore’s campus to explore our visible and invisible fungal neighbors. This walk will take a wheelchair accessible route. Magnifying glasses and UV flashlights will be available for attendees.
Before or after the walk, be sure to stop by the McCabe Library to view a special exhibition on “The Hidden World of Fungi”, curated by Josie Low, which will be on view from September 1 to November 1. McCabe library is open to the public 8:30 am – 4:30 pm on this day.
Register Here
Program Details

This event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
Tours begin in front of the Cunningham House (Arboretum offices).
The tour will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025

Fungi Fest: Entangled Life: A Conversation with Merlin Sheldrake
2026-10-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Science Center 101, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, 19081, United States
Join Scott Arboretum & Gardens and Swarthmore College for an engaging conversation between mycologist and author Merlin Sheldrake and Pennsylvania State Conservation Mycologist Hannah Huber, as they explore the hidden world of fungi and their essential roles in ecosystems, from shaping soil health and plant communities to forming vast, interconnected mycelial networks beneath our feet. Drawing on themes from Sheldrake’s book Entangled Life, the discussion will weave together cutting-edge mycology, conservation perspectives, and the surprising ways fungi influence biodiversity, resilience, and climate systems. The program will conclude with a live audience Q&A, offering the opportunity for deeper conversation with the speakers.
This talk is part of the Cooper Series at Swarthmore College, a curated program of public events funded by the William J. Cooper Foundation to bring world-renowned artists, scholars and leaders from various fields to campus to engage with students and the broader community.
Before the talk, explore the fascinating world of fungi at a discovery table in the SCI 101 Lobby, hosted by the Philadelphia Mycology Club. Copies of Entangled Life will also be available for purchase through the Campus & Community Store from 5–6 PM.
The evening will conclude with a dessert reception.
No registration is required for this event.
Program Details

This event is free.
This event will take place in Science Center 101. From 500 College Ave, follow the Scott Arboretum logo signs to the Whittier parking lot.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025

Members-Only Tour: Patriotic Plants
2026-10-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Scott Arboretum Offices, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA, United States
Join us for an exclusive members-only tour exploring plants with patriotic roots with one of our horticulturists. Celebrate America’s semiquincentennial by learning about these unique plants that have shaped our landscape for decades.
Celebrate America 250 with this special members-only tour.
Become a member of the Scott Associates to attend this tour!
Register Here
Program Details

This members-only event is free, but registration is encouraged to receive program updates.
The tour will depart from the Cunningham House.
Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott office at 610-328-8025
