HARRISTON – The Harriston Garden Festival is almost in bloom, so mark your calendars.
On June 7, the Harriston and District Horticultural Society will host its 22nd annual festival, opening the doors to hundreds of garden enthusiasts, beginners and everyone in between.
“It’s actually the area’s largest garden festival,” stated festival chair Sally Andrade.
The event will take place at the Harriston Community Centre (111 George St. S.) from 8am to 1pm.
Upon entrance guests will see a horticultural society discount plant table filled with lucky finds.
“There will be tons of people around to give you advice [and] answer questions,” said Andrade.
“The master gardeners are a wealth of knowledge for stuff like that … they can even help you plan out a garden.”
The master gardeners are also slated to present a garden-related seminar at 10:30am.
The free festival includes 26 vendors, all within a 45-minute drive of the Minto area.
“We have a raffle [and] lots of good prizes that have been donated by our local businesses,” Andrade stated.
Officials encourage parents to bring children, as two craft sessions will be available throughout the morning, at 9 and 11am.
“One involves planting some seeds and the other one is making a pressed-flower garden lantern,” she explained.
According to Andrade, last year the society set a record with over 1,500 guests.
“It’s usually well over 1,000,” she added.
Andrade noted the importance of promoting community involvement, “plus we think it increases interest in horticultural and gardening, especially in today’s economic climate.
“A lot more people are interested in growing their own food and they are more worried about attracting pollinators to the garden.”
Those doubting their garden skills can relax at the festival as “it’s a great place for beginners.”
Asked about volunteer opportunities, Andrade said, “We could always use some help; without our volunteers we couldn’t do this.”
Those interested in volunteering at the festival can email the society at harristonhort@gmail.com.
On the same day, the Harriston Firefighters Pancake Breakfast runs from 7 to 11am at the community centre. Entry is by donation.
“We sort of work together,” Andrade stated.
Pancakes and flowers, a perfect pair.
