Annual Bonsai Show
Great Swamp Bonsai Society
Date
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Admission
FREE - Open to All
A Living Art Exhibition
Every June, Great Swamp Bonsai Society opens its doors to the public for our Annual Bonsai Show - a free exhibition of miniature trees cultivated by club members over years and decades of patient artistry.
The 2026 show is a milestone: our 50th anniversary year. Members from across eight New Jersey counties and Eastern Pennsylvania will bring their finest trees to Garibaldi Hall, alongside live demonstrations, expert advice, and the always-popular People's Choice vote.
Whether you've never seen a bonsai up close or have practiced the art for years, this is one of the premier free bonsai events in New Jersey. No tickets. No membership required. Just come.
What to Expect
A full afternoon of living art, hands-on learning, and community.
Formal Tree Exhibits
Dozens of member trees displayed on professional stands with accent plants - species ranging from Japanese Maple and Juniper to Hornbeam, Pine, and tropicals. Trees represent years to decades of cultivation.
Live Demonstrations
Watch skilled members style trees in real time at the work table. Ask questions, see techniques up close, and observe the transformation of raw material into bonsai. Demo trees are raffled at the end.
People's Choice Vote
Visitors vote for their favorite tree. Past People's Choice winners include stunning Shimpaku Junipers, Potentilla, and forest plantings. Your vote counts - winners are announced before closing.
Expert Advice - Free
Experienced GSBS members circulate throughout the show and are happy to answer questions about any tree on display, discuss care, troubleshoot problems, or help you get started with your own bonsai.
Vendors & Sales
The show typically features bonsai vendors with trees, pots, tools, soil, and books for purchase. Past shows have featured Jim Gillespie of Nature's Way Nursery and specialty pot vendors. A great place to find something for your collection.
Milestone Year
Fifty Years of Bonsai in New Jersey
The Great Swamp Bonsai Society was founded in 1976 - the same year the United States celebrated its bicentennial. For half a century, our members have gathered to practice, study, and share the ancient art of growing miniature trees.
The 2026 Annual Bonsai Show is our 50th anniversary celebration - open to every resident of New Jersey and beyond. We've been here since 1976. We'd love for you to be part of this milestone.
50
Years
35+
Guest Artists
8
NJ Counties
A Glimpse of Past Shows
Member trees and exhibits from previous GSBS annual shows
Past People's Choice Winners
Voted by show visitors - your favorite tree wins
| Year | Award | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Best in Show | John Michalski |
| 2019 | President's Award | Rick Meyer |
| 2019 | People's Choice | Rick Meyer |
| 2018 | Best in Show | Fred Aufshlager |
| 2018 | President's Choice | John Michalski |
| 2018 | People's Choice | Mark Schmuck |
| 2016 | People's Choice | Mark Schmuck |
| 2016 | President's Award | John Michalski |
| 2011 | People's Choice | Michael Markoff |
| 2009 | People's Choice | Mark Schmuck |
| 2008 | People's Choice (tie) | Mark Schmuck & Dan Boehmke |
Getting Here
Garibaldi Hall
621-A Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland, NJ 07068
Separate building from the main Environmental Center - look for the building on the right as you enter the campus.
From I-280
Take Exit 4A toward Eisenhower Parkway. Head south on Eisenhower Parkway. At the first traffic light, turn right onto Eagle Rock Ave. Continue approximately half a mile - Essex County Environmental Center is on the left.
From Routes 80 / I-287
Connect to I-280 East or West and use Exit 4A as above. Approximately 15 minutes from Morristown.
Parking
Free parking in the lot off Eagle Rock Ave.
Common Questions
Is it really free?
Yes, completely free. No tickets, no registration, no donations required. Just show up and enjoy the show.
Do I need to know anything about bonsai?
Not at all. The show is designed for everyone - from curious first-timers to experienced practitioners. Members are on hand to answer questions and explain what you're seeing.
Can I bring my kids?
Absolutely. Bonsai is a great art form to introduce to children. The show has trees at every scale, including tiny shohin trees kids find fascinating.
Is there parking?
Yes. The Essex County Environmental Center campus has a parking lot off Eagle Rock Ave. Garibaldi Hall is the building on the right as you enter.
Can I buy a bonsai tree at the show?
Member trees on display are not for sale, but the show typically includes a vendor area and members may have trees, pots, or tools available. Contact us for details.
What time should I arrive?
The show opens at 11:00 AM. Most visitors spend 1-2 hours. Arriving early gives you the full experience and more time to chat with members.
More questions? Contact us or email great.swampbonsai@gmail.com
Help Us Spread the Word
Know someone who would enjoy seeing live bonsai? Share this page or send them the show link. The more the merrier - this event is free and open to everyone.
See You June 6th
Saturday, June 6, 2026 · 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Garibaldi Hall, Roseland, NJ · Free Admission
Interested in Joining GSBS?
The show is a great first introduction to our club. If you enjoy it, come to a free monthly meeting any second Tuesday at 6:00 PM. No experience or membership required.