IT'S ALL ABOUT OUR SHARED HERITAGE
2026 EVENTS
TALKS, EXHIBITS, CONCERTS
CANCELLED DUE TO SEVERE WEATHER - FIRST DAY HIKE
Due to severe weather, our First Day Hike is cancelled. Another hike will take place on Sunday, January 11 at 10am. Find out what’s new and what’s planned for our grounds and buildings in 2026. Learn about our whole history from our knowledge of the property’s Indigenous stewardship, to narratives of African-American resilience and emancipation to early colonial beginnings of Rye. How has the landscape changed in appearance and usage? What are the legacies of its many owners and residents over the last 250 years? Why was it elevated to National Historic Landmark status? Meet at the 1838 Jay Mansion at 10am and dress warmly.
GARDEN TOURS & WORKSHOPS
April 5 - November 1, 2026
Thursdays, 10am-2pm; Sundays, 10am-5pm except holidays. Starting Sundays in April 2026 until November 2026 the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC’s Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Email Lucia Maestro for more information or to volunteer in the gardens. FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
VOLUNTEER HOURS
April 5 - November 1, 2026 - THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS at 9:30am
No experience necessary. Learn how to differentiate between native and invasive species throughout the growing season. Acquire proficiency in identifying plants and pollinators. Help harvest fresh food for Meals on Main Street on a weekly basis. This is a great way to make new friends while also acquiring horticulture experience from planting seeds, to weeding or growing herbs and vegetables. Volunteers have regular appreciation gatherings and more bespoke educational classes. You will also receive your own Jay Estate Gardens Newsletter to stay connected. Corporate groups welcome! Special thanks to our returning youth groups from the African American Men of Westchester‘s Environmental Committee, Blue Skies at Christ Church, Rye Presbyterian Youth and the Port Chester Youth Bureau. Join us for orientation led by JHC’s Director of Horticulture and Garden Education. Email Lucia Maestro for more information.