The second of two major festivals at Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens will stretch over much of the Labour Day long weekend.
Following the Art in Bloom Festival in the spring, the Artisans’ Festival takes over the sprawling property of almost 25 acres that owner Bryan Zimmerman has almost singlehandedly turned into
a garden paradise.
The Kitty Coleman gardens not far north of Courtenay are a great place to visit even when there’s not a festival happening.
Following the many bark mulch-covered paths that wend their way throughout the grounds offers a welcome relief from everyday hustle and bustle.
A combination of shrubs, flowers, fountains and unexpected pleasures such as a labyrinth provide a welcome respite.
For three days this weekend, you get all that and more.
Artisans working in a variety of media will display and sell their wares to augment your personal collection or to provide you with striking, artistic gifts for family and friends. The painters, potters, sculptors, photographers, writers and other artisans produce their creations from many media, including wood, stone, clay and canvas.
All of the artisans and artists who are participating in this year’s festival have been selected for the high quality of work that they produce.
As you stroll along the many woodland paths or in quiet glades listening to the soothing sounds of falling water and wind in the trees, you will also be uplifted by the sounds from such musicians as Bruce and Judy Wing, Jorge Alfaro, Brad Prevedoros and Tracy Canill.
Located just a 15-minute drive north of Courtenay off the Old Island Highway, these gardens are one of the jewels of Vancouver Island’s many attractions.
The Artisans’ Festival at Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Monday, Sept. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular garden admission applies.
For further information about the gardens, visit the website at www.woodlandgardens.ca.
— Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens
