Children enjoy an exciting and educational birthday party for their special day! Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the nature center your child’s special day will be one of exploration, learning, and fun. Birthdays are a member benefit. Current Family Membership is required.
How to Book a Party?
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Reserve Your Date
Submit a $50 deposit to hold your party. -
Confirm & Pay
Once you receive the confirmation form, review and sign it. Payments may be made by cash, check (payable to Tenafly Nature Center), or credit card via an online invoice we’ll email for your convenience. -
Review the Parent Checklist
Familiarize yourself with our policies, your responsibilities, and what TNC provides for your celebration. -
Connect with Your Educator
Your party educator will reach out 24–48 hours before your event to introduce themselves and confirm final details. -
Celebrate!
Enjoy a fun-filled day with family and friends—making memories that will last a lifetime!
Reschedule, Cancellation & Refund Information
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Outdoor Programs, Rain or Shine
Parties are held outdoors. In case of rain, activities move under the pavilion with canvas panels for cover. In cases of extreme weather or dangerous temperatures, the birthday coordinator will discuss alternative options. -
Rescheduling
A $50 rescheduling fee applies, if applicable. -
Memberships are considered a donation and are non-refundable.
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Cancellation Timeline Refund Amount
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More than 30 days’ notice: 100% refund
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14-30 days’ notice: 50% refund
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Less than 14 days' notice: No refund
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Damages & Clean-Up
A minimum $50 fee (billed to your TNC account) will be charged if garbage is left behind or TNC property is damaged. You will be notified by phone if an invoice is created. -
Program Integrity
We reserve the right to cancel an activity if actual group size or ages differ substantially from the reservation. Standard cancellation and refund policies apply. -
Compliance
TNC may terminate events for non-compliance with policies, interference with operations, harm to animals, or at the discretion of the Executive Director.
Party Example Schedule
| 10:30 am-11:00 am | Arrive and set up reserved space |
| 11:00 am-12:00 pm | Educator leads themed program |
| 12:00 pm-12:30 pm | Refreshment time (Parent led) |
| 12:30 pm-01:00 pm | Hand out favors as guests leave, followed by clean-up. |
| 01:00 pm | Leave TNC with smiles—and your trash. |
Accessibility at TNC
Many of the programs Tenafly Nature Center offers can be altered to meet the needs of participants with disabilities or those who require accommodations. We ask that you provide pertinent information about any disabilities and/or required accommodations within a minimum of two weeks’ prior to the program. This helps us provide a quality program experience for all participants.
Party location
Parties begin and end at the times listed on your confirmation sheet. Please ensure prompt drop-off and pick-up to help us stay on schedule.
Held under our outdoor covered pavilion with retractable canvas sides and a fireplace.
Parties run rain or shine unless TNC must cancel due to extreme circumstances.
Party Decorations & Setup
Arrive 30 minutes early to decorate the space.Decorations are welcome (banners, crepe paper, streamers). Please leave the area as you found it.
Picnic tables: 6 standard (4 x 8) and 2 wheelchair-accessible (4 x 10).
Not allowed: noisemakers, piñatas, balloons (latex or mylar), or live animal party favors.
For eco-friendly ideas, see our Green Party Tips page.
Party Refreshments
After the program, allow 30 minutes for refreshments. Families may bring or arrange delivery—no on-site cooking or refrigeration.Trash removal is the family’s responsibility. Please bring a trash bag and take it with you when leaving.
No drink boxes (straw wrappers can harm wildlife).
Do not place food, plates, or cups in outside trash cans.
Alcohol is not permitted.
Clean-Up & Leave No Trace
After the party, allow 30 minutes for clean-up to restore the space.
TNC follows Leave No Trace principles. Bring a trash bag for garbage and take it with you.
Recycling is encouraged: cardboard, glass, metals, and plastics #1–7.
Do not leave any food or waste in outside trash cans to protect wildlife.
Photography: Mark Saunders
Participant Behavior & Supervision
Parental Responsibility: Parents are responsible for their children’s behavior; TNC staff do not supervise participants. Adequate adult supervision is required.
Supervising Adults: A maximum of 10 adults may accompany children during the program to ensure a quality experience.
Suggested Ratios: For children ages 5 and up, we recommend 1 adult per 5 children.
Cell Phone Etiquette: Supervising adults should silence phones. Calls should be taken away from the group.
Non-Participating Adults: Parents not supervising may enjoy refreshments or conversation in the conference room or non-program areas.
Additional Guidelines
Siblings & Guests: Children not part of the party must be accompanied by an adult if exploring other areas of TNC.
Group Size: Smaller groups often create a more meaningful experience. Inviting an entire class may not be feasible.
Nature Center Etiquette: TNC is a nature preserve. Please follow trail rules and posted information to ensure safety.
Responsibility: Group representatives are accountable for guest behavior and any property damage.
Gratuity: Tips for educators are greatly appreciated!