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Birthday
Parties

Make your child's next birthday celebration one to remember! At the Greenwich Botanical Center, we'll bring the magic of nature to the party with customized activities and experiences.

Celebrate your child's birthday with us!

GBC is nestled within the expansive Montgomery Pinetum Park and is the perfect place for discovery, exploration and celebration! Parties are designed to meet the age of the birthday child. Each party includes a variety of activities incorporating the unique setting and amenities of GBC and surrounding grounds.

Ages: 3-10 years
Party Dates and Times: 
Saturdays 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm 
Sundays 12pm-2pm

Cost: $500 with a current GBC Family Membership ($150) up to 20 children for 4+ year old birthday party or 15 children for 3 year old birthday party including the birthday child for two hours. 

See FAQs below for additional info/costs.
Schedule A PARTY

Frequently Asked Questions

Scavenger Hunt/Guided Nature Walk: 3+
Your GBC Party lead will take your child and their friends on a sensory adventure through our grounds and around our pond. Everyone will be keeping their eyes and ears out to see what nature presents us with during our outdoor experience. Making observations at the pollinator garden, trying to catch a frog in the pond and balancing across logs are just some examples of the fun to be had!

Art in Nature: 5+
During your Art in Nature Party each child attending will create something unique to bring home. Children will be outside exploring our grounds at the GBC and collecting some natural elements along the way to incorporate into their special craft.

Fairy Party: 4+
Let the wonder begin! At the beginning of the party each child will be able to decorate their own set of fairy wings, to wear during the party if they choose and then to take home. All the fairies attending the party will then venture out and about on the GBC grounds looking for fairy houses. Although the fun is had hunting for these fairy houses the party lead will also incorporate observation and sensory moments throughout the adventure.

Garden Green House Party: 4+ Limit 12 children
Plants are at the heart of what we do here at the GBC. Over the course of this party the children will get to explore the outdoor garden, taste some veggies, tour the Green House, learn about the basic needs of plants. The party includes the decorating of pots and planting seeds to take home.
1 month in advance of party date. If space and staffing allow, we can schedule a party within 2 weeks of party date for an additional fee of $100.
Full payment is required upon contract signing.
Three- year-olds and up.
• 2-hour classroom rental (including set up, theme program, food and cake celebration, clean up)
• 1 hr 15min themed program
• Professional educator to lead the program with 1-2 assistant staff
• Program supplies
• 10 Children included in party package for 3yr olds - $15 per additional child up to 15 children maximum.
• 15 Children included in party package for 4yrs and older - $15 per additional child up to 20 children maximum.
• If you are interested in additional headcount, please contact Carrie Powers, carriep@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org, to learn how to customize your event.

• Food, drinks, paper goods and utensils, and birthday cake
• Food and decoration set-up and clean up
• Birthday decorations
• 2 supervising adults
• 15 min welcome and get settled
• 75 min themed program activity/craft
• 30 min food, drink and cake celebration
Staff sets up tables and chairs in the classroom, prep any materials needed for party activity based on theme, help host family get settled, guide guests to where the party begins, hand out name tags, run party activity, bring children back to classroom for hosts to have food and cake, give closing remarks of thanks, assist hosts getting items to car, and clean up.
• 10 Children included in party package for 3yr olds - $15 per additional child up to 15 children maximum.
• 15 Children included in party package for 4yrs and older - $15 per additional child up to 20 children maximum.
• If you are interested in additional headcount, please contact Carrie Powers, carriep@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org, to learn how to customize your event.
• 10 Children included in party package for 3yr olds - $15 per additional child up to 15 children maximum.
• 15 Children included in party package for 4yrs and older - $15 per additional child up to 20 children maximum.
• If you are interested in additional headcount, please contact Carrie Powers, carriep@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org, to learn how to customize your event.

Families are invited to come into the classroom 30mins prior to the start of their party.

Party hosts are expected to begin gathering their items promptly at the set end time. GBC staff will begin to clean up the birthday party space at this time and help hosts carry items to their car.
Parents are encouraged to stay with their children during the 3-year-old parties.
For parties of 4 years+, we encourage dropping your child off except in the instance of difficulty separating or scenarios that may require parent's attention. Party hosts are welcome to come and enjoy their child's party or stay in the classroom to set up food and cake.
Yes, families can bring their own decorations and goody bags.
The GBC encourages sustainable practices. We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing balloons.
If you are interested in having a party outside the scope of our standard offerings and guidelines, please contact Carrie Powers, carriep@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org, to learn how to customize your event.
Two weeks prior to the party date. The GBC staff will contact you for the final number 2 weeks from the party date.
Adult chaperones do not count towards head count.
Siblings that are attending the party do count towards head count.
Contracts are binding and head count is finalized when the signed contract has been executed.
You may add guests up until two weeks from party date at a rate of $15 per child up to the maximum headcount.
If additional guests are added within two weeks of the party date and/or on the day of the party, you will be invoiced for $25 per additional guest up to the maximum headcount. Should the final headcount exceed the maximum, you will be invoiced for $35 per person over the maximum headcount.
Full payment is required upon signing the contract.
If the party is cancelled 30 days prior to the party date the host family will receive an 80% refund of the total cost.
If the party is cancelled within 30 days of the party date, payment is nonrefundable. The party fee will be converted to a tax-deductible donation, and you will receive a donation receipt.
If you are interested in having a party outside the scope of our standard offerings and guidelines, please contact Carrie Powers, carriep@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org, to learn how to customize your event.
Gratuity is welcomed and appreciated by GBC Birthday Party staff.
Making any changes once the contract is signed will incur a rescheduling fee of 20% of the initial party rate and is based on availability.
GBC Birthday Parties follow our Forest Days philosophy which includes exploring and enjoying nature in all weather. The party continues as planned except in the event of high winds or lightning. In the unlikely event of high winds or lightening, the party will be moved indoors.
Parties at the GBC are held in all weather! Please come dressed ready to play outside in nature. Please wear closed-toed shoes that can get wet and muddy. Clothing items should be able to get dirty. Layers and long pants are recommended but not required. Often guests bring a change of clothes. Dressing for the environment helps the children be more comfortable at the party.
The GBC encourages sustainable practices. We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing balloons. Pets are not permitted.

Nature Adventure

Ages: 3+

Get ready for an outdoor Nature Adventure like no other! Your GBC Party leader will guide your child and their friends on a nature-packed sensory journey through our scenic grounds and around the pond. From spotting buzzing bees in the pollinator garden to trying to catch a peek at sneaky frogs and testing their balance on logs, there’s never a dull moment. With eyes wide open and ears tuned in, who knows what exciting surprises nature will have in store? Let the wild fun begin!
Schedule Event

Fairy Party

Ages: 4+

Let the magic begin! At the start of the Fairy Party, each child will get to decorate their very own set of fairy wings…perfect for fluttering around during the celebration and taking home afterward. Once everyone is winged and ready, our band of fairies will set off on an enchanting quest around the GBC grounds, on the lookout for hidden fairy houses! Along the way, there’ll be plenty of playful surprises, chances to explore with all the senses, and magical moments of discovery woven into every step of the adventure.
Schedule Event

Garden Greenhouse Party

Ages: 4+

Plants are kind of a big deal here at the GBC! Depending on the season, kids might wander through our outdoor garden, visit the vegetable garden, or check out the greenhouse in action. Along the way, they'll discover what plants need in order to grow big and strong (just like them!). Everyone gets to decorate their own plant pot and plant a seedling, and take it home to nurture it and watch it grow. Each Greenhouse Party is a little different, depending on what’s blooming or sprouting; it’s always hands-on, a little messy, and full of green-thumb fun!
Schedule Event

Art In Nature

Ages: 5+

Get ready to create, explore, and get a little messy in the best way possible! At your Art in Nature Party, each child will become a nature artist, making their own one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home. We’ll head outside to explore the beautiful GBC grounds, collecting leaves, twigs, petals, and other natural treasures along the way. Then it’s time to get crafty! Kids can choose from one of the following fun projects - nature crowns (autumn), magic yarn wrapped sticks, painted rock creatures, or botanical art. Every creation is inspired by the great outdoors—and fueled by imagination!
Schedule Event

Floral Design Birthday Party

Ages: 6+

We'll take a walk in nature during all seasons to look at the types of plants and natural materials we can use for floral design. Each participant will get to take home their arrangement or floral fashion piece after an exciting experience learning basic design concepts and skills.

Mason Jar Arrangement (ages 6 and up) (additional cost /person*)
Floral Fashion: Lei or Floral Crown (ages 8 and up) (additional cost/person*)
*Prices may vary depending on season and market availability; any additional upcharge will be confirmed before booking.
Schedule Event

BOOKING A BIRTHDAY PARTY

How do I reserve a GBC Birthday Party?
Please fill out our online request form. 

How far in advance do I need to reserve my GBC Birthday Party?
At least 30 days in advance of party date. If space and staffing allow, we can schedule a party within 30 days of party date for an additional fee of $100.

What age range does GBC Accommodate? Three- year-olds and up.

What is included in a GBC Birthday Party Package?

  • 2-hour classroom rental (including set up, theme program, food and cake celebration, clean up)
    1 hr 15min themed program
    • Professional educator to lead the program with 1-2 assistant staff
    • Program supplies
  • 15 Children included in party package for 3yr olds. 
  • 20 Children included in party package for 4yrs and older.
  • If you are interested in additional headcount, please contact the GBC office to learn how to customize your event.

What does the host provide?

  • Food, drinks, paper goods and utensils, and birthday cake
  • Food and decoration set-up and clean up
    • Birthday decorations
    • 2 supervising adults

Can we bring our own decorations? Goody bags?
Yes, families can bring their own decorations and goody bags. The GBC encourages sustainable practices. We kindly ask that you refrain from bringing balloons & confetti.

Can I customize my own party?
If you are interested in having a party outside the scope of our standard offerings and guidelines, please visit the private event rentals page on our website.

PAYMENT

A GBC Family Membership is required to book a birthday party ($150/year)

GBC requires all participants to sign a waiver. GBC will provide a link to the waiver for inclusion in your invitation.

How many kids can participate in a GBC Birthday Party?

  • 15 Children max included in party package for 3yr olds.
  • 20 Children max included in party package for 4yrs and older.

Do adults/chaperones count toward headcount? Do Siblings?
Adult chaperones do not count towards head count. Siblings attending the party do count towards head count.

What is the payment structure? Once birthday party lead staff is secured, GBC will send a contract and link to make your payment in full.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full payment is required upon signing the contract. If the party is cancelled 30 days prior to the party date, there is a $100 administrative fee. If the party is cancelled within 30 days of the party date, payment is nonrefundable. The party fee will be converted to a tax-deductible donation, and you will receive a donation receipt.

Should I tip the party staff?
Gratuity is welcomed and appreciated by GBC Birthday Party staff. There is an option to add gratuity via your payment link. Alternatively, cash is appreciated on the day of the party.

DAY OF BIRTHDAY PARTY

What is the party schedule?
15 - 20 min welcome and get settled
60 - 75 min themed program activity/craft
30 - 45 min food, drink and cake celebration

What do GBC staff do during the Birthday Party?
Staff sets up tables and chairs in the classroom, prep any materials needed for party activity based on theme, help host family get settled, guide guests to where the party begins, hand out name tags, run party activity, bring children back to classroom for hosts to have food and cake, give closing remarks of thanks, assist hosts getting items to car, and clean up.

Can I arrive early to set up? Can I stay after to break down the party?

Families are invited to come into the classroom 30 minutes prior to the start of their party. Party hosts are expected to begin gathering their items promptly at the set end time. GBC staff will begin to clean up the birthday party space at this time and help hosts carry items to their car.

What do parents do during GBC Birthday Parties?
For parties with 3-year-olds, we encourage parents to stay and enjoy the celebration alongside their child. For children ages 4 and up, we recommend parents drop off to allow the kids to fully engage with the activities and have fun independently. Party hosts are welcome to stay and celebrate or use the time to set up food and cake in the classroom.

What happens in the event of inclement weather?
GBC Birthday Parties follow our Forest Days philosophy, which means children will explore and enjoy nature in all types of weather. Parties will proceed outdoors as planned, rain or shine, except in the case of high winds or lightning. In those rare instances, the celebration will be moved indoors for everyone’s safety.

What do my guests need to know on the invitation?
Parties at GBC happen rain or shine! Please dress your child for outdoor play; closed-toed shoes and clothes that can get wet or muddy. Layers and long pants are encouraged for comfort, but not required. Being prepared for the weather helps kids fully enjoy the celebration. GBC requires all participants to sign a waiver. GBC will provide a link to the waiver for inclusion in your invitation.

Mark Your Calendar for These Can't miss Events

Don't miss out on all the exciting events happening at the Greenwich Botanical Center! From nature walks to gardening workshops, there's something for everyone. Check out our events calendar now and plan your visit.

Contact Us

Greenwich Botanical Center
130 Bible Street, P.O. Box 1600
Cos Cob, Connecticut 06807
+1 203-869-9242
info@greenwichbotanicalcenter.org
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