One of the city's top outdoor spaces welcomes guests to a family-friendly autumn event at its sprawling 55-acre oasis, offering fun fall things to do in Vancouver heading into October.
VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Harvest Days event returns on Saturday, Sept. 28 and runs until Oct. 20,
The event is held on Saturdays and Sundays and will even be open on Thanksgiving, (Monday, Oct. 14). Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 4 pm, with garden access available until 5 p.m.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy seasonal displays and activities, which are included in the price of admission. The event will transform the vegetable garden and maze area into a fall-themed wonderland, with hay bales, cornstalks, pumpkins, and more, offering the ideal setting for seasonal photos. Children can also enjoy fall-inspired crafts.
Local artist Nickie Lewis designed the displays and specializes in eco-friendly sculptures using natural, organic, and 100 per cent biodegradable materials.
Harvest Days activities
Visitors are encouraged to explore the full 55-acre garden, with highlights including the Autumn Stroll, lined with vibrant deciduous trees like sugar maples, ginkgo, and bald cypress.
Visitors will also enjoy eats from several food trucks, including Popcorn at the Park, Coffee & Cookie Truck, BistrotVan, and Melt City Grilled Cheese.
Bluegrass and family folk music groups including Oh Clementine, Loon Lake Holler, the Contingency, and other Pacific Bluegrass and Old Time Music Society members will perform at the festival. Attendees can enjoy musical performances thrice daily at the following times:
- 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
- Noon to 2 p.m.
- 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Harvest Days at VanDusen Botanical Garden
When: Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 28 - Oct. 20 and on Thanksgiving, Monday, Oct. 14.
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden – 5251 Oak St
Price: Adult (19 to 64): $13.80; Senior (65+): $9.65; Youth (13 to 18): $9.65; Child (5 to 12): $6.90; Preschooler (4 and under): Free (ticket required for entry); and Vancouver Botanical Gardens Association member: Free (no ticket required). Buy tickets.
