Autumn is when gardens reveal a different side of themselves after the exuberance of spring and summer. The annual Harvest Fest at The Gardens at HCP in Saanich invites visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of the season — not only by exploring the gardens, but also by discovering new horticultural knowledge and enjoying the natural beauty of fall.

One of the main events of this year’s festival was a presentation by the BC Native Bee Society, along with a demonstration of the art of growing mushrooms on logs.

Visitors also had the opportunity to connect with the local gardening community and purchase seedlings, young plants, seasonal flowers, and fall bouquets at half price.

Beyond the plants and practical knowledge, Harvest Fest offered a wonderful opportunity to spend a peaceful autumn day surrounded by nature. The tranquillity and warm colours of the season suit the HCP gardens beautifully, naturally inspiring a desire to put the outside world's hustle and bustle on pause, and stay a little longer, remain here, and lose oneself in the quiet ocean of autumn grasses and wildflowers.

P.S. As a memento of the day, visitors could commission a portrait, drawn by an artist right before their eyes — a little work of art to remember the day. We, too, were lucky enough to receive a keepsake from Harvest Fest at HCP.