
The 21st Annual Peony Festival in Oshawa
This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Peony Festival in Oshawa, and it promises to be a delightful event for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The festival has become a beloved tradition in the city, and it's easy to see why. With live entertainment, an artisan market, a mouthwatering food court, a judged peony flower show, and so much more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Festival Highlights
The Peony Festival is a celebration of all things peonies, and the judged peony flower show is the centerpiece of the event. Visitors can admire the beautiful blooms and even enter their own peonies in the show. The festival also features live entertainment, including musicians, dancers, and other performers. The artisan market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, and the food court offers a variety of delicious options to satisfy any appetite.
Exploring Oshawa
The Peony Festival attracts many visitors to Oshawa, and the city offers plenty of opportunities to explore. Off-site parking with a shuttle bus is available to take visitors to the garden and Oshawa's famous attractions.
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, and the McLaughlin Estate Gardens at the Parkwood National Historic Site are a beautiful place to take a stroll. The Matsuyama Bonsai Society is offering a free show and demonstration at Parkwood Estate, 270 Simcoe St. N., on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For history buffs, the Canadian Tank Museum and the Ontario Regiment Museum are both worth a visit. The Oshawa Museum is also open on June 8th from noon to 4 pm.
Planning Your Visit
The Peony Festival is a popular event, so it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance. The festival takes place at the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, located at 155 Arena Street in Oshawa. Admission to the festival is free, and there is a suggested donation of $5 per car for parking.
Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy the live entertainment. Service animals are welcome, but pets are not permitted in the garden during the festival.
If you're planning to explore Oshawa during your visit, be sure to check the operating hours and admission fees for any attractions you plan to visit. The Robert McLaughlin Gallery and the Oshawa Museum offer free admission on select days, so it's worth checking their websites for more information.
The History of the Peony Festival
The Peony Festival has a rich history in Oshawa. The first festival was held in 2001, and it has grown in popularity every year since. The festival was originally organized by the Oshawa Garden Club, but it is now run by the City of Oshawa.
The Peony Festival is a celebration of the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Peonies have been grown in Oshawa for over a century, and the city is home to one of the largest peony collections in Canada. The festival is a way to showcase this unique aspect of Oshawa's history and culture.
Conclusion
The Peony Festival in Oshawa is a blooming good time for all who attend. With its beautiful blooms, live entertainment, artisan market, and delicious food, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a peony enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Peony Festival is the perfect event for you. And while you're in Oshawa, be sure to take advantage of the city's other attractions, such as the Robert McLaughlin Gallery and the Parkwood National Historic Site. With so much to see and do, your visit to Oshawa is sure to be a memorable one.
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Jane Meldone
Jane is a freelance writer and marketer who submits articles to various directories online. In her spare time she enjoys crafting while enjoying a cup of herbal tea!
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The Oshawa Museum offers a charming historical experience, and its prime location adjacent to Lakeview Park makes it an even more appealing destination. After immersing yourself in local history, a short stroll will lead you to the stunning waterfront views of Lake Ontario. The scenery is truly breathtaking, and the park provides a perfect opportunity to relax and soak it all in. To top it off, you can even grab an ice cream at the park, making for a sweet and memorable visit. I visited Oshawa last fall with my oldest daughter.
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