A Wonderful Summer of Free Friday Drop-In Programs at HPCG
This summer, Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse hosted five free Friday drop-in programs for children ages 5–10 — and what a joyful, nature-filled adventure it turned out to be!
Each week, our greenhouse and surrounding grounds came alive with laughter, curiosity, and creativity. On our busiest day, we welcomed 24 children, with parents close by to share in the experience.
The children enjoyed a variety of engaging activities: exploring the gardens in an outdoor scavenger hunt, striking still poses in a "frozen sculpture" challenge to stump their friends, creating keepsakes in our flower pressing activity, and even learning to propagate Swedish ivy to take home and grow. These hands-on experiences gave the kids a deeper connection to plants and the natural world.
When the summer heat peaked, our adaptable instructor moved activities into our cool, air-conditioned lobby, blending indoor fun with brief outdoor exploration. This thoughtful approach kept everyone comfortable while still enjoying nature.
From the thrill of the hunt to the quiet joy of crafting with flowers, every Friday was a celebration of learning, imagination, and community. The feedback from families was overwhelmingly positive — parents and children alike described the sessions as charming, educational, and simply delightful.
We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us and to our volunteers who made this possible. These programs not only nurtured a love for nature but also strengthened the bonds in our community. We look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures at Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse!