Arbor Day is a global celebration dedicated to planting, caring for and recognising the importance of trees. First established in the 19th century, it began as a way to encourage communities to protect and expand woodland, and has since grown into an international movement celebrating the vital role trees play in our environment, wellbeing and future.
Here in Letchworth Garden City, Arbor Day holds a special place in our history. As the world’s first Garden City, Letchworth originally embraced Arbor Day traditions as part of its founding vision of green space and environmental stewardship. Today, those traditions are being revived in partnership with local schools, combining heritage with contemporary environmental action.
Since 2023, Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation has worked with a different school each year to reintroduce Arbor Day through creative, hands-on learning. Pupils explore local history, take part in workshops, write and perform songs, and help plant trees in their community. In 2026, this work expanded with a dedicated planting site along the Garden City Greenway, strengthening the legacy of Arbor Day for future generations.
Get involved
Your school can take part using our free teaching resources, including lesson plans, PowerPoints and worksheets, designed to help you plan and deliver your own Arbor Day activities. Download the full resource pack to get started, and explore videos below showcasing recent celebrations and tree planting songs created by local pupils.
If you would like to take part in our next Arbor Day event or share your own Tree Planting Song, please get in touch with Cultural Learning Officer Mollie McLellan at mollie.mclellan@letchworth.com.
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