Summertime in Butchart Gardens

ENJOY "THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS" AT VICTORIA'S BUTCHART GARDENS

 Through January 6, 2011 the Butchart Gardens launches its 24th season of The Magic of Christmas. Amongst the tens of thousands of lights found twinkling throughout the lush garden paradise, visitors can take in the delights of the season through the various displays and activities available during the holiday season. Whether it be searching for each of the scenes depicting the Twelve Days of Christmas magnificently tucked away in the gardens, enjoying the live music and traditional caroling held nightly in the Piazza, or by donning a pair of skates and taking a spin on the popular outdoor skating rink, there is something for the young and the young at heart.

For those with little ones in tow, don’t miss taking a ride on the Rose Carousel at The Butchart Gardens. Housed within the Children's Pavilion, The Rose Carousel features thirty hand-carved, hand-painted animals, a menagerie of characters ranging from bears, to horses, to ostriches, to zebras. The carousel is the first of its kind on Vancouver Island.

A National Historic Site of Canada, The Butchart Gardens began in 1904 with an effort to beautify a quarry, and today whether you are a horticulture enthusiast or someone who simply delights in the magic of the season, a visit to The Gardens during the holidays is a must do. The Butchart Gardens is open 365 days a year including Christmas day. Skate rentals are available and sessions begin on the hour, lasting 40 minutes. Reservations and group bookings are also available. For more information visit www.butchartgardens.com/christmas.

Blog from Tourism Victoria.

Images copyright Anne Gordon.