WHEATON, Md. – Celebrate the arrival of spring with Montgomery Parks! This April, shop for native plants at our plant sales, explore our history as we kick off celebrations for the nation’s 250th anniversary, move at a free African dance workshop, and spark curiosity at our Community Science Festival. There’s something for every age and interest. Don’t miss out on all the fun happening this month at Montgomery Parks.
Plant Sales
Maydale Nature Classroom Spring Online Plant Sale | April 3-17
Maydale Nature Classroom, Colesville
Growing native plants encourages beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife in your community. Support your backyard ecosystem with this fundraising event benefiting Maydale Nature Classroom. Select and pay for your plants online. Prescheduled plant pickup will be on Saturday, April 25. Online sales only. For questions, please call 301-962-1496.
Friends of Brookside Gardens and Brookside Gardens Plant Sale | April 19 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Brookside Gardens, Wheaton
Choose from a wide selection of perennials, shrubs, and trees. Get expert advice from Master Gardeners and staff horticulturists. Proceeds support ongoing efforts to beautify Brookside Gardens. Open 9-10 a.m. for Friends of Brookside Gardens members and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (or until sold out) for the public. Free admission.
Other April events include (registration required for all programs unless indicated)
History of Play | April 1-5 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (April 1-2); 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (April 3-4); 12 – 4 p.m. (April 5)
Josiah Henson Museum and Park, North Bethesda (Parking is only available at Wall Local Park, 5900 Executive Blvd. North Bethesda, MD 20852. Limited accessible parking onsite.)
Even in the most challenging times, children find a way to play. Join us as we celebrate playfulness through the centuries. History of Play activities will be held outside in the park and are free. To view the museum, admission is required: $6/seniors, $7/adults, $6/youth ages 6-17, free for children 5 and under.
History Book Club | April 8 | 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Josiah Henson Museum and Park Virtual
Commemorate 250 years of American independence by delving into diverse narratives and experiences that shaped this country. Through fiction and nonfiction, we’ll examine our shared past and its impact on today. The book to be discussed this meeting is “The Warmth of Other Suns,” by Isabel Wilkerson. Become a member of the History Book Club.
Celebrating African Rhythms through Dance and Song | April 11 | 12 – 4 p.m.
Oakley Cabin African American Museum and Park, Olney
Join us for a free dance workshop featuring the vibrant African rhythms from West Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Americas. Enjoy tours of the historic 19th-century log cabin. Bring the family for a day of fun! Free.
Community Science Festival | April 25 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Lake Needwood Boats, Rockville
Join us for this celebration of natural science and take part in the global City Nature Challenge bioblitz as part of Team Washington DC! Hands-on learning and fun for all ages. Activities include Nature on Wheels, environmental exhibitors, walks, and talks with naturalists as well as our Teens Engaged and Empowered in Nature Stewardship program interns. There will also be two City Nature Challenge Guided Hikes, including one conducted in Spanish. *Registration is not required, but registration guarantees a free gift. Free admission.
McCrillis Gardens Spring Tour | April 25 | 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
McCrillis Gardens, Bethesda
Enjoy a tour of McCrillis Gardens, a naturalistic five-acre estate tucked into a Bethesda neighborhood. Donated to Montgomery Parks in 1978 and managed by Brookside Gardens, it features many blooming azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias, stewartia, redbuds and spring ephemerals. Experience the rich tapestry of spring hues and textures woven throughout this historic garden. $12. **NOTE: Address and parking logistics will be sent prior to tour.
Trivia Night in the Barn | April 28 | 6 – 8 p.m.
Agricultural History Farm Park, Derwood
Gather your friends, bring your thinking caps, and enjoy an evening of friendly competition in our rustic setting. Questions will span a variety of categories, so there’s something for trivia buffs of all kinds, from casual players to seasoned quiz masters. Enjoy a selection of adult beverages from our on-site vendor; each registration includes one free drink voucher to kick off your night! Come for the challenge, stay for the laughs, enjoy a lively night out in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, and maybe win prizes. $25.
More ways to explore and enjoy
- Check out the Park Academy Series for fitness, wellness, and learning classes.
- See our special programs for 55+.
Go to Montgomery Parks event calendar for a complete list of special events and programming and to learn how to sign up using ActiveMontgomery. Visit the Spring 2026 Montgomery Parks Program Guide.
About Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks manages 416 parks and more than 37,000 acres of parkland. Our parks, programs, and facilities promote physical activity, social connection, and environmental stewardship. As part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Montgomery Parks is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible park experiences. M-NCPPC has been stewarding public lands since 1927 and has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services.
Accessibility at Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Program Access Office at 301-495-2581 (Voice), MD Relay 7-1-1 or 800-552-7724 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org to request a disability modification. Visit Montgomery Parks Program Access for more information.
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