Brew Up a Bonsai @ Pacific Bonsai Museum

Bundle up and experience the fall colors in miniature through the most geographically diverse public bonsai collection in the United States, then get out the scissors as you learn how to create a bonsai of your own to take home.

This hands-on afternoon session at the Pacific Bonsai Museum starts with a guided tour of the museum’s 150 bonsai trees, which hail from Canada, China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and the United States. Keep an eye out for the museum’s signature “Domoto” Trident Maple, which has been cultivated as a bonsai since about 1850, making it one of the oldest bonsai in the country. As you explore the collection, you’ll learn about the centuries-old techniques used to transform ordinary trees into living works of art.

Inspiration unlocked, it’s time to create your own bonsai masterpiece under the guidance of two of the museum’s instructors. A selection of local craft beers and light snacks will keep things from getting too serious as you strategically snip away at your Mugo pine, a beginner-friendly tree with small, deep-green needles. When you’re happy with your work, raise a glass with your fellow students to toast your miniature tree and celebrate a Saturday afternoon well spent learning a new creative skill.