Death Café
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesThe Death Café is inspired by the centuries-old European salon (or café), an informal gathering to discuss philosophical, political or scientific ideas. In 2011, British entrepreneur Jon Underwood brought this concept to discussions of the most universal topic of all: death. Underwood’s intention was to provide an opportunity to “increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives.” Today, there are over 4,400 Death Cafes in 26 countries around the world.
Jazz at Twilight
Celebrate summer at Green-Wood! Arrive just before the sun begins to dip below the horizon to enjoy sweeping views of the cemetery, New York Harbor, and downtown Manhattan awash in dazzling golden light. Then sit back and enjoy tunes from some of the best jazz bands in New York City as they play you into the night. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and take in the ambience of Green-Wood’s magnificent landscape at sunset.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk - and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and atmosphere. As the sun sets on 478 spectacular acres, you'll weave through stunning landscapes and visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American history. This not-to-be-missed walking tour ends with a visit to the Catacombs, which are normally closed to the public.
Street Tree Care
Join your fellow environmentalists as we remove litter and weeds from the tree beds, cultivate the soil, and provide water and mulch for street trees in Sunset Park.
Sound the Alarm! Green-Wood’s Firemen
Firefighting was an exceptionally dangerous occupation in nineteenth-century New York and Brooklyn. There were little to no fire safety regulations, and up until 1865 Brooklyn’s fire companies were manned by volunteers – often more focused on inter-company rivalries than in putting out the fires. Join Jeff Richman, Green-Wood’s Historian, for our first-ever tour to uncover the stories of these courageous men and their sacrifices. Visit the elaborate Firemen’s Monument (1848) that honors the death of thirty men who died in the line of duty, plus the symbolic brownstone fire hydrants that mark the lot of the infamous Americus 6 Fire Company, as well as first responders who died in the 9/11 attacks.
Dead Distillers Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is teaming up with our friends at Kings County Distillery to delve into the storied past of distilling in Brooklyn. The afternoon kicks off with a trolley tour of the cemetery’s “permanent residents” with whiskey connections, including the one and only casualty of the Brooklyn Whiskey Wars of the late 1860s and early 1870s. Afterward, the trolley will head to Kings County Distillery in the Brooklyn Navy Yard where visitors will see first-hand how whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting of four delectable varieties.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk - and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and atmosphere. As the sun sets on 478 spectacular acres, you'll weave through stunning landscapes and visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American history. This not-to-be-missed walking tour ends with a visit to the Catacombs, which are normally closed to the public.
Birding in Peace
Before our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Historic Trolley Tours
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesExperience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
After the Funeral: Memorializing Loved Ones
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesJoin death educator Amy Cunningham for a discussion about capturing the true legacy of a loved one. Over the past several years, she has worked with hundreds of families to ensure that the rituals around memorializing feel true and right for each family. Learn about creating unique keepsakes, whether it is the form of textiles, artwork, charitable donations, or readings. She will also explore how digital platforms can provide an ideal space for sharing stories and memories that are easily accessible. Discover what might feel right for your family.
Moonlight Tours
Join other fearless trekkers to explore Green-Wood’s intriguing tombstones and unforgettable catacombs under the glow of the full moon. Historian Jeff Richman leads these immensely popular walking tours, which begin at sunset and are accompanied by the ethereal and atmospheric sounds of live accordion music. Buy your tickets soon; these tours always sell out.
Green-Wood’s public programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
