In addition to the stunning fall leaves, the Arboretum is hosting a number of enjoyable events from late November through December, including Nature Play for Kids, Yoga in the Garden and visits from Jolly St. Nick
Here’s some great news for fans of fall foliage: you don’t have to travel to New England in order to see autumn trees at the height of their colorful splendor.
Instead, make the scenic drive to Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 E Arboretum Way, Superior, AZ 85173 Superior, where Mother Nature is preparing to put on an incredible autumnal show of reds, oranges, yellows and golds.
“The three peak weeks of fall colors are from the end of November to the beginning of December, and the scenery here is truly magical” said Kim Gray, Executive Director of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. “Because Black Friday is traditionally our busiest day for visitors who are here to see the gorgeous fall foliage, we are staying open late Thanksgiving weekend, with the last admission at 9 p.m.”
For visitors who would like their four-legged friends to experience the Arboretum too, Gray said well-behaved dogs on a 6-foot or shorter leash are welcome to visit.
“We are also hosting a Food Drive during late November and December,” Gray said. “Visitors can bring shelf-stable foods like tuna, canned chicken, pasta, soup, chili, peanut butter and canned vegetables, and everything will be donated to the Superior Food Bank.”
In addition to admiring and photographing the beautiful fall leaves, visitors are welcome to take advantage of a number of late fall and winter programs and events at the Arboretum – including visits from Santa Claus. They are:
Glass in Flight – This immersive outdoor sculpture exhibit was created by renowned Tucson-based artist Alex Heveri. Featuring over 17 dazzling sculptures made of hand-cut, hand-faceted Dalle de Verre glass set in powder-coated steel, this exhibit captures the magic of nature’s tiniest pollinators—blown up to monumental scale. Walk among monarchs, beetles, and hummingbirds that radiate color and light. Now through January 30, 2026, during regular hours.
Glass in Flight at Night – Come experience the dazzling Glass in Flight exhibit at night. With strategic lighting and nightfall as the backdrop, these larger-than-life glass insects take on a whole new dimension—radiant, surreal, and unforgettable. Watch butterflies shimmer, dragonflies pulse with color, and beetles gleam like jewels in the dark. From now to January from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be no evening hours on November 8.
Meet the Artist – Glass in Flight – Come meet Alex Heveri, the artist behind Glass in Flight 2. Heveri, a Tucson-based artist and sculptor, will talk about the process and inspiration behind her larger-than-life glass pollinators. Guests will be guided on a tour of some of the pieces in the Glass in Flight 2 collection and have a chance to ask Heveri questions about the exhibit. November 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and November 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Nature Play – Unplug and reconnect with Nature in the Children’s Garden, where families can escape the screens and dive into
the wonders of the great outdoors. Bring your kids to explore, play and learn using seasonal and nature-themed activities for families of all ages and abilities. Every Saturday, November 15, 22 and 29, and December 6, 13 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Forest Bathing – Also known as Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is the practice of spending time in nature for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness. During class, participants will be led on a 2-1/2 hour walk through the century-old trees of the Arboretum with a series of guided “invitations”, closing with a tea ceremony. December 6 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Paint at the Arboretum – Prickly Pear Cactus – Unleash your creativity amongst the inspiring beauty of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Under the guidance of artist Carla Keaton, you will paint a unique masterpiece to take home. Whether you’re an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the first time, all skill levels are invited to join. All supplies are provided. November 15 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Yoga in the Garden – Relax and restore in this all-levels yoga class held outside in the tranquil setting of the Arboretum. During this class, participants are shown how to mindfully move through gentle postures with breath awareness to promote relaxation, flexibility, and circulatory health. November 22, December 10, and December 20 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Santa visits the Arboretum – Santa is coming to the Arboretum! Stop by the Smith Greenhouses and get a photo with Santa. Bring your family, including four-legged family members, for fun holiday photos. Digital copies will be available for purchase. December 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Holiday Hangout – Celebrate the season at the Holiday Hangout. Shop local vendors and find one-of-a-kind gifts at our holiday marketplace. Treats and merchandise will also be available for purchase. December 6, 13, 14, 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Branching Out Speaker Series – Hummingbirds, Our Avian Jewels – Arizona is the “hummingbird capital” of the United States, with more species than any other state. In this program by nature photographer Cindy Marple, attendees will learn about the large hummingbird family and their unique lifestyles, as well as how to identify the local species in the Valley. December 12 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Holiday Floral Design – Celebrate the holiday season by handcrafting a beautiful centerpiece filled with fresh-cut evergreens and vibrant flowers. With the guidance from the instructor, you will design a one-of-a-kind arrangement perfect for your holiday table. No experience necessary; this class is open to all skill levels. Ages 18 and up. December 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
To check out the event calendar for late fall and winter, which includes information about ticket prices and, if applicable, how to register, please visit https://btarboretum.org/events/.
For more information on Boyce Thompson Arboretum – located at 37615 E Arboretum Way
Superior, AZ 85173 – and their upcoming events, memberships, or conservation initiatives, visit www.btarboretum.org, call 520.689.2723, or connect with them on Facebook, Instagram or X (formerly Twitter).