Calendar of Events 2013

Bird Walk, 10 a.m. meet in the Visitor Centre Atrium. Join Jeremy Gordon for a guided birding exploration in the Garden. Rain or shine. Free for Members or with Garden admission.

Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program: FREE information session, 1 p.m. in the VanDusen Guides Classroom. Call 604-718-5898 for information or registration. View details on the Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program.

Art Photography, an exhibition of large format photographs by Harold Ma in The Discovery Room, Visitor Centre. Opening Reception 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm in the Visitor Center Great Hall with a presentation by Mr. Ma at 7:30 pm. Public Welcome.

HSBC Family Program, Folk Stories of Familiar Plants, for families with children aged 5 – 11. Explore a winter wonderland through folklore, visiting plants like the Christmas rose in the Garden and zoomed in on the big screen of our new Smart Board! Share the legend of the poinsettia, make our own starch poinsettias, warm up with hot cocoa and an Athabaskan tale of The Bag of Warmth. One session only 10:30 – noon. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children & Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Art Photography, an exhibition of large format photographs by Harold Ma in The Discovery Room, Visitor Centre

Metro Vancouver Gardening Society Spring Flower & Penjing Show, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days. Admission: $2 per person/ $5 per family. Information: Tony Wu 604-473-9837 tonychwu@gmail.com

Celebration of Nature, Flora and Fauna, in the Bloedel Conservatory. An exhibition of sculpture by the Sculptors’ Society of BC. Special presentations/demonstrations by artist Jean-Guy Dallaire from 1 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

HSBC Family Program, Super Survivors, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Could your family survive winter using only the plants around you? Play our Survivor Game and learn about the many amazing uses of our native plants. We will investigate plant and animal adaptations to survive winter conditions and design our own super survivors. Plus, everyone will create a camouflage creature to take home. One session only 10:30 – noon. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children & Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Horticultural Therapy Course 1: Introduction to Horticultural Therapy, begins Feb 17 and runs for 5 sessions. Part 1 of our four part certificate program. View details on the Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program.

Bird Walk, 10 a.m. meet in the Visitor Centre Atrium. Join Jeremy Gordon for a birding exploration in the Garden. Rain or shine. Free for Members or with Garden admission.

Seedy Saturday, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Presented by the BC Master Gardeners Association. A celebration of heritage varieties and organic gardening featuring more than 30 growers, seed companies and exhibitors and Heritage Seed Swap. Admission by donation.

Kids’ Corner at Seedy Saturday, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. This free family event will have a variety of seed inspired activities during our annual Seedy Saturday event.

Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Orientation is a prerequisite for volunteer activities at VanDusen Garden. Bring your lunch, we’ll provide refreshments. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Garden Entrance at 10 a.m. Learn about the many volunteer opportunities at VanDusen. Meet representatives from the VBGA staff and Board. Tour the Garden with experienced Guides who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm. To register or for more information, call Judy Aird at 604-257-8674 volunteer@vandusen.org.

Art Photography, an exhibition of large format photographs by Harold Ma in The Discovery Room, Visitor Centre

Celebration of Nature, Flora and Fauna, in the Bloedel Conservatory. An exhibition of sculpture by the Sculptors’ Society of BC. Special presentations/demonstrations by artist Jean-Guy Dallaire from 1 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Annual Manure Sale, Visitor Centre drive way off of Oak, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $6 for a 20kg bag, 5 or more bags $5 per bag. First come, first served. Information: vandusenmanure@gmail.com

HSBC Family Program, Worm World, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Spring is almost here and as life above ground starts to stir, things are moving underground as well. Take a closer look at worms, how they live, what they eat and the important things they do! Make a mini worm composter to take home. Plus, everyone will create a camouflage creature to take home. One session only 10:30 – noon. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children & Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Medicine Wheel Ceremony, Noon - 3 p.m. at the First Nations’ Medicine Wheel in the Canadian Heritage Garden. Join elders from the First Nations community in a spiritual ceremony to mark the changing of the season. Wear clothing appropriate to accomodate all kinds of weather, and bring a small stone(s) to bless and leave at the wheel. Also please bring a food item to share at the conclusion of the ceremony as well as your own dishes to keep the potluck as environmentally-friendly as possible. Bring and a folding chair or blanket to sit on. Information: Contact VanDusen’s Librarian Marina Princz at library@vandusen.org or 604-257-8668

Climate Change and Trees, an educational exhibit in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room by UBC's Faculty of Forestry that explores the effects of climate change on some of the tree species found in VanDusen's collection. The exhibit consists of 19 interpretative panels, each representing a species of tree in the Garden, that explore how those trees are adapting (or not) to the climatic changes occurring in the natural habitats. Admission free. Further information: Sue Watts, Assistant Dean of Communications, UBC Faculty of Forestry sue.watts@ubc.ca

Vancouver Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale, Floral Hall & Cedar Room, Admin. Bldg., Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission $7. Information: Margaret Prat 604-261-8474 / margaretprat@shaw.ca

Spring Break Camp, Exploring Nature with Watercolours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, for children ages 11 – 14 with artist instructor Susan Pearson (www.susanpearson.ca). Use the Garden as inspiration while you learn watercolour techniques. Explore insects, flowers and landscapes with your paint brush during this three-day camp. Class limited to only 12 participants. Fee includes basic watercolour kit and paper. Please bring a sketchpad and pencil. Price: Family Member $150 / Non-member $165. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or emailing summercamps@vandusen.org.

Bird Walk, 10 a.m. meet in the Visitor Centre Atrium. Join Jeremy Gordon for a birding exploration in the Garden. Rain or shine. Free for Members or with Garden admission.

SOLD OUT The Great A-Mazing Egg Hunt, for families with children ages 2 – 10. The Easter Bunny has hidden chocolate in the garden! Participate as a family to solve the rhymes and find his secret hiding place. Four time slots to choose from: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.; and 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Pre-purchased tickets required. Tickets are NOT available at the Gate on the day of the event. Limited number of tickets available. Tickets go on sale March 1, in person only, at the Visitor Centre Admissions Desk. Price: Children (Non-member and member) $6.50, Adult $10.75, Senior $8.00, Member Adult and member Senior free. Sponsored by Purdy's Chocolates. Information: tracee.jung@vancouver.ca

Climate Change and Trees, an educational exhibit in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room by UBC's Faculty of Forestry that explores the effects of climate change on some of the tree species found in VanDusen's collection. The exhibit consists of 19 interpretative panels, each representing a species of tree in the Garden, that explore how those trees are adapting (or not) to the climatic changes occurring in the natural habitats. Admission free. Further information: Sue Watts, Assistant Dean of Communications, UBC Faculty of Forestry sue.watts@ubc.ca

Alpine Garden Club of B.C. Spring Show and Sale, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., noon - 4 p.m. Admission free. Information: Chris Byra 604-793-9247 / cbyra@shaw.ca

Sakura Days Japan Fair, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both days. As they do in Japan, come celebrate the blooming of our cherry trees and the start of spring with this family-friendly Japanese festival. Enjoy festival food, traditional tea ceremony, sake tastings, cultural performances, arts and crafts, and shopping. Also learn more about Japanese businesses and technology and enjoy entertainment on the Cherry Stage. Special admission in effect. Presented by the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival: www.vcbf.ca and Japan Fair Association of Vancouver: www.japanfairvancouver.com

Vancouver Dahlia Society Annual Tuber Sale, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 1 – 4 p.m. both days. Admission free. Information: Evelyn Crawford 604-437-8395 / evelyn.crawford@shaw.ca / www.vancouverdahliasociety.com

Horticultural Therapy Course 2: HT Professional Practice, begins Apr 14 and runs for 5 sessions. Part 2 of our four part certificate program. View details on the Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program.

HSBC Family Program, Go Play Outside - A celebration of Robert Bateman, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

VBGA Annual General Meeting & Volunteer Recognition, at 7 p.m. in the Visitor Centre. The meeting will begin with volunteer awards and then proceed to the business portion.

BC Fuchsia & Begonia Society Annual Plant, Bake & Craft Sale, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission free. Information: Fran Carter 604-591-3262 / fccarter@hotmail.com

Pt. Grey Chrysanthemum Association Rooted Cutting Sale, Cedar Room, Admin. Bldg., 9 a.m. - noon. Admission by donation. Information: Gerald Pinton 604-943-0996 / sgpinton@dccnet.com

The Sex Lives of Vegetables ... and Other Delicious Distractions, presented by Astrolabe Musik Theatre in the Visitor Centre at 7:30 p.m. Join us for a nutritious, and sometimes naughty, musical jaunt down the garden path investigating bees, weeds .... and the surprising sex lives of vegetables. Governor General Award-winning poet Lorna Crozier joins musicians AK Coope (clarinet), Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa (piano) and Heather Pawsey (soprano) in this chamber music celebration of the garden’s glories featuring Canadian composer Leslie Uyeda’s settings of the (in)famous vegetable poems – a fresh and delicious musical feast! Prices: Adults: $25, Students/Seniors $18 VanDusen Members receive a $2 discount Tickets: available on-line at Brown Paper Tickets http://sexlives.brownpapertickets.com/ Added Bonus: Ticket holders have free admission to VanDusen from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on the evening of the concert only.

Making Pleasing Places, a special presentation by noted artist and naturalist Robert Bateman. Visitor Centre at 7:30 p.m. Come on a rambling trip through the history and geography of places that have been organized with pleasing aesthetic considerations. These places range from African and New Guinea villages to the sophisticated royal palaces at Versailles. Also included will be images of personal attempts by Robert Bateman to make his own ‘pleasing places.’ Price: Non-members $25, Members $20 available in person at the Admission Desk or through our web site - Adult Education/Lectures

VanDusen Plant Sale, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. THE sale of the year. More than 40,000 plants for sale. Catalogues available in advance at the Garden Cashier for $2 starting April 1. Bring your wheelbarrow and a friend. Master gardeners will be on site to give advice. Other features include Plant Check and Plant Pick Up areas. Visa, MasterCard, personal cheques and cash accepted. Admission to the Garden is free this day. If you want to donate plants to the sale, contact Jean McComb 604-261-4556 or Margie Knox 604-261-1868 or drop off at the Plant Compound off the laneway south of W.33rd between Selkirk and Osler (not the Service Yard). Read the news release. Download the Plant Sale Catalogue.

Climate Change and Trees, an educational exhibit in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room by UBC's Faculty of Forestry that explores the effects of climate change on some of the tree species found in VanDusen's collection. The exhibit consists of 19 interpretative panels, each representing a species of tree in the Garden, that explore how those trees are adapting (or not) to the climatic changes occurring in the natural habitats. Admission free. Further information: Sue Watts, Assistant Dean of Communications, UBC Faculty of Forestry sue.watts@ubc.ca

SOLD OUT Persian Gardens, a special lecture by John Brookes, one of the world’s most influential garden designers. Presented in collaboration with MOA in VanDusen Visitor Centre at 7:30 p.m. Mr. Brookes’ extensive portfolio includes traditional English gardens, modern, minimalist, Islamic and wild gardens. As the author of the authoritative book, Gardens of Paradise: The History and Design of the Great Islamic Gardens, he will speak about his relationship with Persian gardens and how he interprets their aesthetic qualities in his work. There is a second lecture by Mr. Brookes on May 7. Price: Non-Members $55 for both lectures or $30 for a single lecture. Members: $45/both or $25/one. To purchase: Through MOA web site http://moa.ubc.ca/eventtickets or in person at the Garden’s Admission Desk starting February 4. Sponsored by Freybe Gourmet Foods Ltd.

Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Orientation is a prerequisite for volunteer activities at VanDusen Garden. Bring your lunch, we’ll provide refreshments. Dress for the weather. Meet near the Garden Entrance at 10 a.m. Learn about the many volunteer opportunities at VanDusen. Meet representatives from the VBGA staff and Board. Tour the Garden with experienced Guides who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm. To register or for more information, call Judy Aird 604-257-8674 volunteer@vandusen.org

Vancouver African Violet & Gesneriad Society Annual Show & Sale, Floral Hall, Admin Bldg., 1 - 4 p.m. Admission free. Information: vavgs@telus.net

SOLD OUT The Gardens of John Brookes, a special lecture by John Brookes, one of the world’s most influential garden designers. Presented in collaboration with MOA in VanDusen Visitor Centre at 7:30 p.m. John Brookes is a renowned garden designer with more than 1,200 gardens around the world to his credit. He will take us on tour of some of his favourite and most influential landscape designs, explaining his practice and process. There is another lecture by Mr. Brookes on May 2. Price: Non-Members $55 for both lectures or $30 for a single lecture. Members: $45/both or $25/one. To purchase: Through MOA web site http://moa.ubc.ca/eventtickets or in person at the Garden’s Admission Desk starting February 4. Sponsored by Freybe Gourmet Foods Ltd.

Bird Walk, 10 a.m. meet in the Visitor Centre Atrium. Join Jeremy Gordon for a birding exploration in the Garden. Rain or shine. Free for Members or with Garden admission.

All British Field Meet, Great Lawn from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. With more than 600 classic British cars on display including swap meet stands, concessions, artist gallery, classic car seminars, sponsors/vendors booths featuring the latest ‘future classic’ models, brass, jazz and pipe band music and more. With this being the largest field meet in Western Canada, expect to see everything from the tiny Austin’s and Mini’s to stately Rolls Royce’s and Bentley’s and record displays of featured marque cars to honor a century of Aston Martin, 60 years of Austin-Healey, 100 years of Morris Motors and 85 years of Vincent motorcycles. General Admission Prices: Adult $16, Senior and Youth $13.25, Child $8, Family $32. Special Member Prices: Member Adult $13.25 and Member Family $26.50. All admission tickets will be entered into a draw for prizes including a trip for two to Britain with Virgin Atlantic and to the Yukon with Air North. General Advance Tickets and information available at: www.westerndriver.com/abfm

Vancouver Japanese-Canadian Sumi Bonsai Club Annual Show, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. both days. Admission free. Information: Tony Nasu 604-432-6160

Walk in the Tropics, Orchids throughout the World, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bloedel Conservatory with Margaret Pratt, president of the Vancouver Orchid Society. What makes tropical orchids so unique from most other tropical plants? How do they differ from their orchid cousins in colder regions? Join Margaret in a discussion about epiphytism and adaptations that make certain orchids suited to tropical climes. Prices: Members: $10, Non-members $15. Pre-registration required http://vancouver.ca/vandusen/adultEducation/adult.htm

Vancouver Orchid Society Orchid Show, at the Bloedel Conservatory. Be ready to see a multitude of rare and unusual beautiful orchids – all courtesy of members of the Vancouver Orchid Society. Members of the society will be on hand from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day to share many interesting facts about these fascinating plants and to answer any questions you may have about repotting, purchasing or identifying your own orchids. Bloedel Conservatory is open until 8 p.m. each evening. Admission to the Show is included with admission to the Conservatory.

HSBC Family Program, Eat Your (Micro) Greens!, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Microgreens are delicate, young plants that are harvested and eaten while they are tiny and tasty. Often used by chefs in the finest restaurants, you will learn the tricks to growing and eating these healthy little bursts of flavor at home. You will sample some of these tiny delights and make a ‘microgreen monster’ to plant up and take home. Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Taguchi Bonsai Club Annual Spring Show & Sale, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days. Admission: $2 per family. Information: Sandy Knoll 604-224-1343 / sknoll@shaw.ca

Climate Change and Trees, an educational exhibit in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room by UBC's Faculty of Forestry that explores the effects of climate change on some of the tree species found in VanDusen's collection. The exhibit consists of 19 interpretative panels, each representing a species of tree in the Garden, that explore how those trees are adapting (or not) to the climatic changes occurring in the natural habitats. Admission free. Further information: Sue Watts, Assistant Dean of Communications, UBC Faculty of Forestry sue.watts@ubc.ca

HSBC Family Program, Pond Dipping and the Magic of Mechanics, for families with children ages 5 – 11. How do water striders walk on water? How large would a lily-pad raft have to be to support your weight? This year, our ever-popular pond dipping day will also include an exploration of the mechanics behind the successful life strategies of plants and insects in the water. You will dip into the pond and carefully scoop out insects to examine and identify. Finally, you will create your own water strider to take home. Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Bird Walk, 10 a.m. meet in the Visitor Centre Atrium. Join Jeremy Gordon for a birding exploration in the Garden. Rain or shine. Free for Members or with Garden admission.

Desert Plant Society of Vancouver Show & Sale, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Admission free. Information: Dirk Himschoot 604-789-0507 / dhimscho@shaw.ca

Harpistry Harp Choir, Visitor Centre Plaza, 2 - 3 p.m. Come join this 5-piece harp ensemble for the Annual Father’s Day High Tea and performance at VanDusen Garden. The repertoire will include classical Harp arrangements including the famous ‘Flower Duet’ song. The Harp Choir has been performing publically for eight years and is led by Artistic Director Mehlinda Heartt, a local professional harpist and teacher for 35 years. Included with General Admission. Information: www.harpistry.com

Medicine Wheel Ceremony, Noon - 3 p.m. at the First Nations’ Medicine Wheel in the Canadian Heritage Garden. Join elders from the First Nations community in a spiritual ceremony to mark the changing of the season. Wear clothing appropriate to accomodate all kinds of weather, and bring a small stone(s) to bless and leave at the wheel. Also please bring a food item to share at the conclusion of the ceremony as well as your own dishes to keep the potluck as environmentally-friendly as possible. Bring and a folding chair or blanket to sit on. Information: Contact VanDusen’s Librarian Marina Princz at library@vandusen.org or 604-257-8668

Touch Wood, a celebration of wood by more than a dozen B.C. artists and sculptors. Monumental sculpture pieces are sited throughout the Garden, smaller works are on view in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room and Garden Shop. The show is curated by Celia Duthie and Nicolas Hunt of the Duthie Gallery on Salt Spring Island. View details on artists and pieces.

Night Shift Jazz, Visitor Centre Plaza, 7 - 9 p.m. Come and enjoy an evening at the Garden with this local 17-piece big band as they perform a jazz gumbo of swing, blues, funk and Latin jazz. Included with General Admission. Information: www.nightshiftjazz.com

Touch Wood, a celebration of wood by more than a dozen B.C. artists and sculptors. Monumental sculpture pieces are sited throughout the Garden, smaller works are on view in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room and Garden Shop. The show is curated by Celia Duthie and Nicolas Hunt of the Duthie Gallery on Salt Spring Island. View details on artists and pieces.

EPIC: The Sustainable Living Festival, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., both days. An outdoor festival featuring a number of attractions: an Eco Marketplace offering sustainable and inspiring ideas, products and services; a Main Stage with live performances all day showcasing BC homegrown talent like emerging artists Steph MacPherson and Norika Yue and featuring two headliners Kuba Oms and the Paperboys; a 19+ only Sip & Savour Garden showcasing local craft-made beers, wines and spirits, EPICurean Corner hosting a variety of food exhibitors including Green Table Network Chefs with samples of delicious local and sustainable food, Gardening Workshops, Classes and Tours conducted by BC Society of Master Gardeners; an interactive Kids Zone; and an educational EPIC Speaker Series where panelists and guests alike will join the discussion about a sustainable future. Price at the gate: Adult One Day $25, Adult Two Day $45, Youth One Day (6 yrs – 12 yrs) $12, Youth Two Day $20, Senior/Student One Day $22, Senior/Student Two Day $40, Member One Day $22, Member Two Day $40, Children 5 and under free. Member Tickets are only available at the gate, proof of membership required. Details and discounted Advance tickets available online at epicfest.ca.

HSBC Family Program, Around the World in 20 Plants, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Take a whirlwind trip across the globe – without ever leaving the Garden! After making VanDusen Garden passports to track our findings, we will begin our adventure by searching for BC native plants. Then we jet off to find plants from across North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, even Australia and New Zealand. Join us and see if we can make it around the world in 20 plants. Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Vancouver Shade Garden Society Annual Show and Competition, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission free. Information: Chris Jennings 604-602-6644 / sikokianumcjl@shaw.ca

BC Fuchsia & Begonia Society Annual Show & Competition, Floral Hall & Cedar Room, Admin. Bldg., Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission $2.50 Information: Fran Carter 604-591-3262 / fccarter@hotmail.com

Touch Wood, a celebration of wood by more than a dozen B.C. artists and sculptors. Monumental sculpture pieces are sited throughout the Garden, smaller works are on view in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room and Garden Shop. The show is curated by Celia Duthie and Nicolas Hunt of the Duthie Gallery on Salt Spring Island. View details on artists and pieces.

HSBC Family Program, Impressions of VanDusen, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Keep a botanical journal by capturing the beauty of three very different plants through a selection of impression techniques. For each species we investigate you will make a solar print, a pigment impression, record interesting botanical notes, and collect a small sample for your journal. We will also experiment with spore prints with non-toxic mushroom caps. Don’t miss this adventure, it is sure to leave a lasting impression! Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Vancouver Orchid Society Summer Sale, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Information: Margaret Prat 604-261-8474 / margaretprat@shaw.ca

Vancouver Dahlia Society Annual Dahlia Show, Floral Hall & Cedar Room, Admin Bldg., Saturday: 1 - 5 p.m. Sunday: noon – 3:30 p.m. Admission by donation. Information: Peter Krueger 604-241-4995 / peterkrueger@shaw.ca

Touch Wood, a celebration of wood by more than a dozen B.C. artists and sculptors. Monumental sculpture pieces are sited throughout the Garden, smaller works are on view in the Visitor Centre Discovery Room and Garden Shop. The show is curated by Celia Duthie and Nicolas Hunt of the Duthie Gallery on Salt Spring Island. View details on artists and pieces.

Luxury SuperCar & Shaughnessy Concours d‘Elegance, on the Great Lawn from 11 am to 5 pm (both days). Featuring the finest collection of new, concept, vintage and electric cars for luxury and Supercar brands including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Mercedes- Benz, BMW, McLaren, Aston Martin, Rolls Royce, Masetrati, Bentley Porsche, Alfa Romero, Lexus, Lincoln, Cadillac, Tesla, Corvette to name a few. Automotive feature displays include the 50th anniversary of Lamborghini, the 50th anniversary of Porsche 911, and the 60th anniversary of Corvette. A display of traditional Hot Rods from the ‘30s, military and hand-picked selection of ‘60s and ‘70s Mopar muscle cars. Other features on site include: Fashion stage, Italian food pavilion, Great Gatsby picnic site, Wines of Italy pavilion, luxury travel tent, luxury boat display and the best of class Concours Awards. Price: General admission $50, VIP admission $100 (including food and adult beverages); VanDusen Members: $40 for General Admission and $90 for VIP (at the door, proof of membership required or on-line with VBG code). Details and advance sales tickets: www.luxurysupercar.com Information: Craig Stowe craig@luxurysupercar.com.

Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Orientation is a prerequisite for volunteer activities at VanDusen Garden. Bring your lunch, we’ll provide refreshments. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Garden Entrance at 10 a.m. Learn about the many volunteer opportunities at VanDusen. Meet representatives from the VBGA staff and Board. Tour the Garden with experienced Guides who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm. To register or for more information, call Judy Aird at 604-257-8674 volunteer@vandusen.org

Pt. Grey Chrysanthemum Association Show of Early Varieties, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., Saturday: noon - 4 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission by donation. Information: Gerald Pinton 604-943-0996 / sgpinton@dccnet.com

HSBC Family Program, All in the Family, for families with children ages 5 – 11. Families come in all shapes and sizes and this is also true in the plant and animal world. Join us in a tour of VanDusen’s odd plant families and plot them in your own botanical family tree. You will be surprised to meet some of the cousins of the plants you thought you knew! Then, join us in our classroom for a family challenge on the interactive Smart Board. Can you identify the relatives of backyard neighbours such as a raccoon? Two Sessions 10:30 – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. Member Family $15, Non-Member Family $25 (includes admission to the Garden). Fee covers up to 2 adults and 3 children. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. More program details on the Children and Families page. Pre-registration required by calling 604-718-5898 or familyprograms@vandusen.org. Bursaries for a free program are available for families in financial need. For more info call 604-718-5898. Financial assistance for these programs is provided by HSBC Bank Canada.

Bloom Gala, Flora & Feathers, 6 – 9 p.m. in the Bloedel Conservatory. A fundraiser in support of VanDusen Education. Details, prices and tickets at www.bloomgala.com

Alpine Garden Club of B.C. Fall Plant Sale, Floral Hall, Admin. Bldg., noon - 4 p.m. Admission free. Information: Chris Byra 604-793-9247 / cbyra@shaw.ca

Medicine Wheel Ceremony, Noon - 3 p.m. at the First Nations’ Medicine Wheel in the Canadian Heritage Garden. Join elders from the First Nations community in a spiritual ceremony to mark the changing of the season. Wear clothing appropriate to accomodate all kinds of weather, and bring a small stone(s) to bless and leave at the wheel. Also please bring a food item to share at the conclusion of the ceremony as well as your own dishes to keep the potluck as environmentally-friendly as possible. Bring and a folding chair or blanket to sit on. Information: Contact VanDusen’s Librarian Marina Princz at library@vandusen.org or 604-257-8668

Annual Compost and Spring Bulb Sale, Parking lot 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 for a 20kg bag of compost. While picking up your compost, why not add a few bulbs to your purchase. Wide selection available.

Dried Flower Sale, Visitor Centre 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sale of dried flower centre pieces for Thanksgiving and autumn wreaths made from materials gathered in the Garden.

Horticultural Therapy Course 3: Garden Design and Plants for Health promotion and Therapeutic Benefits, begins Sep 29 and runs for 5 sessions. This course can be taken alone or as part of the certificate program. View details on the Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program.

Dried Flower Sale, Visitor Centre, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sale of topiaries, wreaths, bouquets and arrangements made from materials gathered in the Garden.

Vancouver Mycological Society Mushroom Show, Floral Hall & Cedar Room, Admin. Bldg., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission $3. Information: James Holkko 604-878-9878 / info@vanmyco.com

Horticultural Therapy Course 4: HT Program Development, begins Nov 10 and runs for 5 sessions. Part 4 of our four part certificate program. View details on the Horticultural Therapy Certificate Program.

Members’ Only Christmas Sale in the new Garden Shop. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. both days. Members receive 25% off all purchases except books and magazines. Proof of Membership required.

Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Orientation is a prerequisite for volunteer activities at VanDusen Garden. Bring your lunch, we’ll provide refreshments. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Garden Entrance at 10 a.m. Learn about the many volunteer opportunities at VanDusen. Meet representatives from the VBGA staff and Board. Tour the Garden with experienced Guides who will share their knowledge and enthusiasm. To register or for more information, call Judy Aird at 604-257-8674 volunteer@vandusen.org.

Holiday Wreath & Centrepiece Sale, Visitor Centre 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Holiday Wreath & Centrepiece Sale,Visitor Centre 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.