Events
October 24, 2026
Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration
Celebrate trees in a volunteer day of service,
hosted every year in partnership with the City of Raleigh!
Join us for a day of service:
Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration
Event details
Date and time:
October 24, 2026
9:00am - 1:30pm EST
Address:
Carolina Pines Park (map)
2305 Lake Wheeler Rd,
Raleigh, NC 27603
Admission:
Free
We Plant it Forward is proud to host this year’s Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration in partnership with the City of Raleigh!
Designed as a collaborative day of service, volunteers will move through a series of guided activities throughout the event, working together to plant trees, remove invasive species, and more! At the end of the day, all volunteers will receive a free tree to take home.
Whether you're looking to support local environmental efforts, or just want to enjoy a day outdoors, this day of service is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to create lasting impact in our community!
Become a sponsor
The Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration is a volunteer day of service,
but we depend on sponsors like you to make it happen.
If you would like to take your support to the next level, consider sponsoring this year’s event, and help make this day of service a success!
Featured programs
Throughout the day, volunteers will move between workstations, with each station focusing on a different aspect of tree stewardship! Staff will available to provide guidance and support along the way.
For more information, explore the full list of our scheduled programs below!
1. Tree Planting
Led by Lauren Freudenberger, Anthony McLamb, Zach Manor, and Melissa McCann
Improper planting can greatly impact a tree’s ability to establish healthy roots, grow successfully, and survive long-term.
At this station, volunteers will help set young trees up for success by learning and practicing proper planting and care techniques.
Tree Planting
Activities
Ceremonial tree planting
The day will begin with a ceremonial tree planting to commemorate Raleigh Arbor Day 2026, followed by an official proclamation from the Mayor recognizing October 24th as Raleigh Arbor Day.
Containerized tree planting
Learn how to properly transplant potted trees from 7-, 10-, and 15-gallon containers into the ground.
Tree seedling planting
Learn how to plant bare-root tree seedlings into the ground to support healthy establishment.
Tree diaper installation
Learn about the benefits of tree watering systems and how to properly install and maintain them.
Native pollinator planting
Learn how native pollinator plants support diverse ecosystems, and how to plant them beneath trees.
2. Seed Collection
Led by the City of Raleigh
Many native tree species produce seeds with naturally low germination rates, making seed collection an important part of future tree growth and restoration efforts.
At this station, volunteers will learn how to identify and ethically collect native tree seeds, as well as how to clean and prepare them for planting.
Seed Collection
Activities
Tree seed collection
Learn how to identify and ethically collect native tree seeds.
Tree seed processing
Learn how to clean and prepare tree seeds for planting.
3. Tree Care
Led by Houston Jones and the City of Raleigh
Without proper care and maintenance, trees can struggle to establish healthy root systems, resist disease, and thrive long-term.
At this station, volunteers will learn essential tree-care techniques, including composting, mulching, and pruning.
Tree Care
Activities
Mulch, compost, and prune
Learn how to properly apply compost and mulch to trees, as well as how to safely prune branches.
AirSpade demonstration
Learn about the AirSpade tool and the benefits of using one in this demonstration.
4. Invasives Removal
Led by Sean Gough, Native Plants Matter NC, and the City of Raleigh
Invasive plant species negatively impact our environment by competing with native plants.
At this station, volunteers help restore balance to the local ecosystem by removing invasive trees and vines from the park.
Invasives Removal
Activities
Invasive tree removal
Learn about invasive tree species, and how to safely remove them.
Invasive vine removal
Learn about invasive vines, and how to effectively remove them.
5. Park Clean-Up
Led by Preston Ross (The Great Raleigh Cleanup)
Litter and debris can pollute soil and waterways, harm wildlife, and disrupt healthy ecosystems that trees depend on to thrive.
At this station, volunteers will help conserve the park by removing trash and other waste materials from the grounds.
6. Tree Giveaway
Led by We Plant it Forward
Healthy urban tree canopies support cleaner air, cooler temperatures, stormwater management, and so much more.
As a thank-you for their service, volunteers will receive a free tree to take home, giving them the opportunity to apply their new skills, and continue making a lasting impact beyond the event itself.
Make a donation today
Your support helps us accomplish our mission to empower our community to plant, advocate, and care for a vibrant, native tree canopy for all.
Past highlights
Take a look back at some of our favorite moments from previous Raleigh Arbor Day Celebrations! From vibrant community events and amazing vendors, to inspiring performances and generous sponsors, these highlights showcase the energy and heart that make this festival so special.
Stay connected and join the conversation! Follow us on social media for the latest updates, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and inspiring stories from our community.