Citizen Spring at the Jardin botanique Espace pour la vie is offering, in cooperation with external organizations, four weekends of free activities at the Jardin botanique’s Frédéric Back Tree Pavilion, an inviting, dynamic and lively space for meetings and exchanges. In April, reconnect with nature and take the opportunity to explore, create or exchange with others, while gearing up to take concrete action towards the socio-ecological transition and the protection of biodiversity. April 5 | Nature's Good for Me - Day 2 Nature can bring peace of mind and help us recharge our batteries. Seize this day to enrich your relationship with the earth through a wide range of activities that will help you to engage in a relationship where collaboration with ecosystems and respect for nature are key. Program The Jardin botanique team offers books, games, and creative activities for everyone on an ongoing basis. 10 am to noon - Au naturel! Story Time for the Whole Family Courtesy of Pouce Carré Enjoy a fun and relaxing moment as you discover books that celebrate trees and nature! Join the Pouce carré facilitators, who will read entertaining children’s stories and present fascinating documentaries that will help you better understand and appreciate the environment! New for 2026: a table packed with reading suggestions for all ages General public and families In French only 10 am to noon - “Trees and Roots” Intergenerational Creative Workshop Courtesy of La ruche d’art Yéléma “What if I were a tree?” Through drawing, collage, and/or writing, let’s have fun while taking a deep dive into our roots and spreading our branches—like a tree through the seasons. Young and old alike are welcome! There will be plenty of organic materials and recycled treasures available on site. General public and families In French only 10 am to noon - Guided Tour: The Arboretum in Spring Courtesy of the Friends of the Montréal Botanical Garden The Arboretum’s tree collection allows visitors to admire the awakening of nature in spring. Come (re)discover this space through the eyes and stories of our passionate volunteer guides! This activity is offered by the Friends of the Montréal Botanical Garden. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. General public and families Up to 15 people In French only 11 am to 2 pm - Territory on the Move Courtesy of Ample Man Danse Come join the dance in the great outdoors! In this entirely natural choreographic space, Ample Man Danse will reveal its creative realm. Bring the whole family to this unique workshop, where everyone will be invited to move in sync with the environment. General public and families Up to 25 people at a time In French only 1 to 1:45 pm - Let’s Create the Living Tale of Elzéar le Pustuleux Courtesy of Contes vivants Contes vivants is visiting the Jardin botanique to present a reimagined storytelling session. This interactive workshop begins with a performance of the tale of Elzéar le pustuleux! Then, the storyteller will create a new, custom-made story by interacting with the participants. A story designed to help you marvel at the beauty of the Jardin botanique! General public and families (5 years and older). Up to 35 people In French only 1:30 to 4:30 pm - Origami Workshop Courtesy of Hideko Sinto People of all ages are invited to discover and try to fold one or more simple to intermediate models with artist Hideko Sinto, an expert in origami. General public and families (5 years and older) Up to 25 people at a time In French only 2 to 3:30 pm - Introductory Bonsai Workshop Courtesy of the Société de Bonsai et de Penjing de Montréal This introductory workshop on the art of bonsai for children (ages 9 to 15) will teach you the basics of growing and shaping a miniature tree while ensuring its long-term health. As a bonus, you’ll get to take home your own little bonsai tree. Children (ages 9 to 15) Up to 12 people In French only 3:30 to 4:30 pm - Guided Walk Through the Arboretum Courtesy of Jardin botanique | Espace pour la vie Whether you want to get up close and personal with trees or learn more about these green giants, this walk is for you! Come explore the trails of the Jardin botanique’s arboretum with our team of guides. General public and families In French only 3 to 4:30 pm - Cultivating Collective Hope: Environmental Psychology Workshop Courtesy of Éco-Motion With eco-anxiety affecting close to one in two people in Quebec, this workshop invites you to turn your concerns into inspiring actions. Through practical environmental psychology exercises, you will develop tools to manage stress related to ecological and social issues, while strengthening your sense of belonging and your power to take collective action. Adults (18 years and older) Up to 20 people In French only