The Gardens of the Pacific Horticultural Center (HCP) held their annual harvest festival on October 30, where families had the opportunity to plant garlic bulbs, make bird feeders, search for birds. migrants in the wetland, create pumpkins and learn more about how to protect bats with Habitat Acquisition Trust volunteers at their exhibit.

The Fall Bird Migration Walk was led by an in-nature educator to teach families what migration looks like this time of year and why the bird species that service the ecosystems of Greater Victoria need protection.

Paula McCormick runs youth programs in the gardens and was thrilled to celebrate the season by hosting educational exhibits and encouraging families to be outdoors.

“Today we have set up a number of small exhibitions such as planting opportunities – today we are planting garlic – we are always looking to connect families with plants and teach them how to create food security by connecting to their own food sources, ”said McCormick.

Growing your own food and being self-reliant is a message HCP is keen to teach families and children when they visit the gardens, McCormick added.

Families also had the opportunity to create their own pumpkin people – an annual tradition where children and families participate in workshops to learn how to use pumpkins and squash to make life-size creations.

Families are encouraged to bring old clothes, hats, boots and more. Pumpkins and straw for stuffing clothes and positioning pumpkins are provided.

McCormick said the annual festival is a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal changes and local garden harvests as Greater Victoria goes through the winter.

To learn more or to get involved, visit hcp.ca

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