Plan your visit to the U.S. Botanic Garden in Washington D.C. for the 2025-2026 Season’s Greenings: Dino-mite! holiday show. Get dates, previews, and tips for the dinosaur-themed display.
I still remember the first time I experienced the U.S. Botanic Garden’s holiday display. The air was crisp, the building glowed against the winter night, and inside was a magical world of model trains and fragrant poinsettias. It’s a Washington D.C. tradition that never fails to impress. For the 2025-2026 season, the Garden is upping the ante with a prehistoric twist that promises to be unforgettable.
The main event, “Season’s Greenings: Dino-mite!“, will run from November 27, 2025, through January 4, 2026. This exhibition transforms the entire Conservatory into a festive wonderland, blending traditional holiday cheer with a journey back in time to the age of dinosaurs.
Why You Should Visit Season’s Greenings
You should visit this exhibit for a unique holiday experience that delights all ages. It’s one of the few D.C. attractions that is completely free, making it accessible for everyone. The combination of intricate botanical decorations, the nostalgic charm of model trains, and the new dinosaur theme creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere you can’t find anywhere else in the city.
What to Expect at the Dino-mite Exhibit
While the Garden will release more detailed information in late summer 2025, based on their history and the announced theme, here’s what you can likely look forward to.
Prehistoric Giants, Made from Plants
The centerpiece will be dinosaurs crafted from natural materials. Imagine a towering Tyrannosaurus rex with bark for skin and moss for scales, or a Triceratops with fronds for its iconic frill. These sculptures are works of art, showcasing how plant parts can be used in incredibly creative ways.
The Enchanted Train Display
A beloved staple of the show, the model trains will return with a “Dino-mite” route. The trains will chug through a landscape featuring prehistoric plants and maybe even a volcano or two, connecting the world of dinosaurs with the magic of the holidays.
A Glow of Poinsettias and Holiday Classics
Alongside the dinosaurs, you’ll find the Garden’s classic holiday beauties. Thousands of poinsettias in every shade from classic red to creamy white will fill the rooms. You can also expect to see D.C. landmarks, like the Capitol Building, meticulously recreated from plant materials like seeds, bark, and leaves.
Gardens of the Ancient World
The exhibit will highlight living fossils—plants whose ancestors lived alongside dinosaurs. You can see cycads, ferns, and magnolia trees, which will be labeled to help you connect the modern garden to the ancient world.
A Quick Guide to Your Visit
| Aspect | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Exhibition Name | Season’s Greenings: Dino-mite! |
| Dates | November 27, 2025 – January 4, 2026 |
| Location | U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory, Washington, D.C. |
| Cost | Free (No tickets required for general admission) |
| Hours | Typically 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with extended evening hours in December. |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings for smaller crowds; evenings to see the lights glow. |
Pro Tips for the Best Experience
To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind.
- Check for Updates: Since full details are coming later, the official U.S. Botanic Garden website is your best resource for confirming hours, special events, and any potential timed entry passes.
- Visit in the Evening: The Garden often extends its hours in December. Seeing the poinsettias and dinosaur displays illuminated against the dark winter sky is a truly magical experience.
- Combine with Other Sites: The Garden is located at the foot of the Capitol, within easy walking distance of the National Mall. You can make a full day of visiting other free indoor gardens and museums nearby.
- Dress for Comfort: The Conservatory can be warm and humid, a stark contrast to the winter chill outside. Wear layers you can easily remove.
- Make it a Family Adventure: The dinosaur theme is perfect for kids. Turn the visit into a scavenger hunt, challenging them to find all the different prehistoric creatures and ancient plants. For more family-friendly ideas, see our guide to family gardening activities.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. Botanic Garden’s “Season’s Greenings: Dino-mite!” is shaping up to be a standout holiday event for 2025-2026. It’s a perfect blend of education, artistry, and pure festive fun. Whether you’re a local looking for a new tradition or a visitor exploring D.C.’s holiday offerings, this free, enchanting exhibit is well worth a spot on your calendar.
Will you be braving the prehistoric holiday crowds to see this exhibit? Let me know in the comments if you’ve been to a past Season’s Greenings show and what your favorite part was!
