Events
October 24, 2026
Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration
Celebrate trees in a volunteer day of service,
hosted in partnership with the City of Raleigh!
Event details
Date and time:
October 24, 2026
8:00am - 1:30pm EST
Address:
Carolina Pines Park (map)
2305 Lake Wheeler Rd,
Raleigh, NC 27603
Group volunteer opportunities
are available!
Join us for a day of service:
Raleigh Arbor Day Celebration
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! Aroborists and Environmental Steward experts will provide guidance and support along the way.
For more information, explore the full list of our scheduled programs below!
1. Tree Planting
Led by Raleigh Urban Forestry team, Anthony McLamb, Zach Manor; Raleigh Horticulturist, Lauren Freudenberger, and We Plant it Forward Executive Director and arborist, Maggie Bailey
Improper planting can greatly impact a tree’s ability to establish healthy roots, so the tree grows successfully, and survives long-term.
At this station, volunteers will help set young trees and understory plants up for success by learning and practicing proper planting techniques.
Tree Planting
Activities
Ceremonial tree planting
The day will begin with a ceremonial tree planting to commemorate Raleigh Arbor Day 2026 and an official proclamation given by the Mayor Pro Tem, Jane Harrison, recognizing October 24th as Raleigh Arbor Day 2026.
Containerized tree planting
Learn how to properly plant containerized trees into the ground support long-term survival rate.
Tree seedling planting
Learn how to plant bare-root tree seedlings into the ground to support healthy establishment.
Native pollinator planting
Learn how native pollinator plants support diverse ecosystems, and how to plant them beneath trees.
2. Seed Collection
Led by Emmanuel Brown (Project Pando)
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 select viable tree seeds for planting.
3. Tree Care
Led by Basil Camu and the Leaf & Limb team
Without proper care and maintenance, trees can struggle to establish healthy root systems, resist disease, and thrive long-term.
At this station, volunteers will observe demonstrations and 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 Kate Dixon and Sean Gough (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 learning how to effectively remove invasive English Ivy and Chinese Wisteria vines from trees in the park.
5. Park Clean-Up
Litter and debris can pollute soil and waterways, harm wildlife, and disrupt healthy ecosystems that trees depend on to thrive.
Volunteers will help conserve the park by removing trash and other waste materials from the grounds.
6. Lunch, Reflection & Tree Giveaway
Led by We Plant it Forward
Healthy and diverse urban tree canopies support cleaner air, cooler temperatures, stormwater management, and so much more. Environmental stewardship provides the needed support for our urban canopy to work to its fullest potential.
As a thank-you for your environmental stewardship, We Plant it Forward will provide a catered meal. We’ll reflect on what we learned and the work we accomplished!
Volunteers will also receive a free tree seedling 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 Raleigh Arbor Day 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.