We’re excited to plant trees with you at ArborFest 2026, brought to you in collaboration with [insert corporate sponsors] the City of Grand Rapids, and Garfield Park Neighborhood Association!
ArborFest 2026 is our 11th annual spring planting event! With the support of community volunteers, we’ll plant 250 trees in Garfield Park and Southtown April 24 and 25.
Friday Schedule
Planting Time: 1-4pm
Volunteering Information
When you sign up to volunteer, you’ll be taken to our third party system, Bloomerang. Different volunteer options are as follows:
Forestry Volunteers
Forestry Volunteers are the folks who will help us get those 250 trees into the ground! No previous training or experience planting trees is necessary. Come prepared to dig some holes and get your close-toed shoes dirty!
Event Volunteers
Help us with event logistics! From setting up tents and tables, to checking in volunteers, to handing out t-shirts, if you like talking to people and have an eye for detail, this role could be for you!
Site Leaders
Site Leaders are a vital part of a successful ArborFest planting event! They are guides for all of our forestry volunteers, teaching how to plant a tree, where to go, and supporting volunteers through the event. Site Leader training is an opportunity for new and returning site leaders to practice some tree planting, learn some tips on how to teach volunteers, and to learn more about the neighborhood they’re planting in! They’ll also know where to check in for the event and who to reach out to if they need help. In-person Site Leader training is strongly recommended for new Site Leaders. If you have any questions about this training, please feel free to email our Director of Forestry, Becky Pobst.
All volunteers should:
- Bring a water bottle and sunscreen
- Wear close-toed shoes (required)
- Dress appropriately for the weather
Please note: The parking lot at Garfield Park is reserved for folks with mobility needs. A map of street parking options will be shared with participants a few days before the event.
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is an equal opportunity provider. This program is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Urban & Community Forestry Program.