Come in out of the cold - enjoy VanDusen's mini tropical vacations in the Bloedel Conservatory this winter

(Vancouver, BC) – When it’s raining cats and dogs outside and the temperature drops, we dream wistfully of a vacation in the tropics. Where would you like to go - Brazil? Thailand? Bali? Hawaii?  How about closer to home - how about the top of Queen Elizabeth Park at The Bloedel Conservatory?

This winter and spring, VanDusen Botanical Garden’s education department is offering two new series of programs that take advantage of Bloedel’s balmy tropical environment.  The first is a series of educational walks entitled Walks in the Tropics. Led by knowledgeable staff from VanDusen and Bloedel, these new morning walks are designed to familiarize you with the rich biodiversity found under Bloedel’s dome.  The first walk takes place on January 18th from 10:30 a.m. to noon and covers the topic of Plant Adaptations. Future Walks in the Tropics include Introduction to Bloedel's Flora on March 15th and Interior Plantscaping on April 19th. Cost to attend each walk is $10 for VanDusen members and $15 for non-members; price includes admission to the Conservatory. Pre-registration is a must, unfortunately drop-ins cannot be accommodated. To register please call 604.257.8332. For details on individual Walks visit the Events Calendar on VanDusen’s web site.

VanDusen Botanical Garden’s popular HSBC Family Programs (for families with children ages 5 to 11) have also moved into the Bloedel Conservatory for the chilly winter months. Discover Bloedel’s diverse tropical plant life and learn about the amazing birds that call the Conservatory home. The whole family will enjoy these guided programs which will include fun and educational activities to enhance your experience. HSBC Family Programs are offered January 22nd, February 19th and March 26th. Details on HSBC Family Programs can be found on the Garden’s web site under Family Programs. Each program has two sessions: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Price: VanDusen Family members $10, Non-Member Family $20 (includes admission to Bloedel). Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required - 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org

Walks in the Tropics and the winter sessions of HSBC Family Programs take place at the Bloedel Conservatory, atop Queen Elizabeth Park located off West 33rd Avenue between Cambie and Main Streets.

VanDusen Botanical Garden is located at 5251 Oak Street at W.37th Avenue in Vancouver. For information on VanDusen Botanical Garden and its many events and programs please visit www.vandusengarden.org or call the 24-Hour Information Line 604.257.8335.