National Arbor Day

National Arbor Day.

In Spring 2023, Yale University proudly garnered Tree Campus Higher Education recognition from the National Arbor Day Foundation. Together with over 500 volunteer tree-planting hours from students, alumni, faculty, and staff, this honor is the result of a nine-year collaborative effort of a core group of staff members from the Office of Sustainability, Facilities, Office of Public Affairs and Communications, and the Urban Resources Initiative at the School of the Environment. Our campus joins 411 university and college campuses across the U.S. in meeting five vigorous standards that include an annual campus-wide celebration to enhance learning about the benefits of trees.

When it comes to celebrating National Arbor Day at Yale, all are invited to participate and there’s something for everyone. Check out a few of the ideas below and be sure to give your favorite tree a hug!

Trail Blazers

Commune with the trees! Explore a campus trail or wander farther afield.

Campus walks

  • Arbor Day Lunchtime “Walk and Talks” (guided by Yale experts)
    • Tuesday, April 23, noon – 1 p.m., begin at the steps of the Schwarzman Center to Hillhouse Avenue/Science Hill area sponsored by Yale Being Well and Sustainability programs.

      Register for Nature Walk

    • Friday, April 26, noon – 1 p.m., Leisurely stroll while learning about the significance of Yale’s impressive urban landscape design. Beginning at Phelps Gate (344 College Street), we will visit several points of interest in the Old Campus vicinity including Staff Service Recognition tree groves in the heart of campus. Sponsored by Yale Facilities, School of the Environment, and the Office of Public Affairs and Communications.

      Register for Nature Walk

  • Yale Nature Walk
  • Arboretum Tour of the Grove Street Cemetery (self-guided)
  • Yale’s Staff Service Recognition milestone tree trail (self-guided)

Walks beyond campus

Tree Planters and Huggers

Dig deep. Do good.

Volunteer to plant trees to recognize Yale staff members celebrating milestone anniversaries on April 16, 3 p.m., 34 Hillhouse Avenue.

Register for Tree Planting

Zen Masters

Research shows that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, enhance well-being, and creativity. See for yourself.

Lifelong Learners

Yale stands tall as a leader in environmental studies. Take advantage and learn from the experts.

Storytellers and Family-Fun Makers

Share your tree story.

Is there a soft spot in your heart for a special tree perhaps from your childhood or one that’s in your yard or neighborhood? Post a brief story and feel free to share a photo, too.

Looking for a little family fun while helping to make our city, region and world greener and healthier?
Check out the 16th Annual Rock to Rock Earth Day Ride/Hike, April 27.

Managers and Engagement Teams

Break out the fun with tree-themed staff engagement and recognition activities.

  • Treat your team to a lunch break and enjoy one of the campus walks or wellness activities mentioned above.
  • Play a few rounds of Tree Trivia! See details on how to play.
  • Download the Chat Stickers collection and share the “Rootin’ for ya” and “Unbe-leaf-able” stickers to cheer on your colleagues.
  • Make someone’s day. Send a Ycard to a staff member featuring a campus spring tree scene.