It’s a “bootiful” month at the New York Botanical Garden — complete with bugs, bats, parades, parties, and more! If you’re looking for even more outdoor fun this season, be sure to explore other Botanical Gardens in NYC and Long Island that also offer fall festivities and stunning seasonal displays.
“Gourd-gous” gourds will be created when Food Network star and pumpkin parer Ray Villafane is on hand on Oct. 20 and 21, from 11 am to 5 pm, weaving his carving tools and turning pumpkins into terrifying zombies, and other outta-this-world critters. His creations will be on view through the end of the month.
Fearless thrill-seekers ages 5 to 12 can stroll through the Haunted Adventure Garden Spooky Nighttime walk on Oct. 20 through 28, from 6:30 to 8 pm to get the goosebumps going — if they dare! Bring your flashlight and courage, but don’t forget your costume. Admission is $20 and $15 for non-members.
The Haunted Pumpkin Garden is open all day for exploration from 1:30 to 5:30 pm and 10 am to 5:30 pm on weekends, from Oct. 6 through Halloween.
If music gets your bones jangling, Eddie, Sonya and Michael of the Little People Palooza will stage a live show and rock out the gardens with their sweet brand of kiddie rock-and-roll on Oct. 6, 7, 13, and 14. Showtimes are at 10:15 am and 12:15 pm.
Foodies can head for the Green Market, held every Wednesday from 9 am to 3 pm through Nov. 21. Admission is free and features the very best of baked-goods, veggies, fruits, and other tastebud tinglers. General admission, unless otherwise noted, is $20 for adults and $8 for children under 12.
The New York Botanical Gardens [200th St. at Kazimiroff Blvd. in Belmont, (718) 817–8700, www.nybg.org].
