Trail, workshop, educational visits, and games mark Darwin Day at the Rio Botanical Garden

On February 12, Darwin Day is celebrated around the world in honor of British naturalist Charles Darwin, who was born on that date. The scientist revolutionized biology with the publication of On the Origin of Species in 1859, when he presented the theory of evolution of living beings through natural selection. At the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, Darwin's scientific legacy is celebrated with a special program for visitors.

The activities begin this Thursday (February 12) at 9 a.m. at the Botanical Garden Museum with the workshop “DNA Extraction from Fruit,” taught by researcher Catarina Lira. The goal is to demonstrate, in a simple and practical way, how to extract DNA—the molecule that carries the genetic code of all living beings—from fruit. The activity takes place in the Multipurpose Room, offers 20 spots, filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and is free of charge, with no admission fee.

After the workshop, the public can participate in the Evolutionary Trail, a guided tour of the arboretum led by researcher Paulo José Fernandes Guimarães. During the tour, visitors will learn about 14 species of plants that represent different stages of plant evolution, from mosses and ferns to orchids and cacti, understanding how these groups have adapted and diversified over time. The activity is free, with only the entrance fee to the arboretum being charged. The starting point will be at the Museum.

Also on Thursday (12) and Friday (13), there will be an educational visit entitled “Darwin and the evolution of plants,” beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the Museum's Reception Room. The activity will recall Darwin's visit to Rio de Janeiro and the Rio Botanical Garden, highlighting how his observations on flora contributed to the formulation of theories of evolution. The visit is free and aimed at children and their families, with 20 places available on a first-come, first-served basis. No ticket is required.

Rounding out the program, interactive games will combine learning and fun in the activity “Botanical Games – Paths of Evolution,” scheduled for the 12th, 13th, and 21st. Aimed at children ages 8 and up and their families, the activity explores plant species, Brazilian biomes, and biodiversity themes through group activities. On the 12th and 13th, the games will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; on the 21st, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., in the Museum's Multipurpose Room. There are only 10 spots per session. The activity is free and no ticket is required.

Service – Darwin Day at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

Dates: February 12 (Thursday), 13 (Friday), and 21 (Saturday)
Location: Botanical Garden Museum and Arboretum
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
Rua Jardim Botânico, 1008

Admission fee
Visitors residing in Brazil: R$ 40.00 (full price) and R$ 20.00 (half price)
Foreign visitors: R$ 80.00
Children under 5 years old are free. Residents of Brazil over 60 years old, people with disabilities, students, among others, are entitled to half-price admission and pay R$ 20.00.
Payment at the box office is cash and pix only. Online tickets are available at jbrj.eleventickets.com with pix or credit card.