Geelong Botanic Gardens is hosting a free Open Day this weekend

Taking to the stunning surrounds of the Geelong Botanic Gardens, the open day promises a day of natural delights, free activities and entertainment.

If you’re looking for something to fill in the time this weekend, the Geelong Botanic Gardens will be the place to be as it opens its gates for a day of free activities and entertainment, set against the backdrop of its historic gardens.

Taking place on Sunday, 8 October, this year’s Botanic Gardens Open Day guarantees a delightful array of activities and displays that will enchant visitors of all ages. The event aims to foster a sense of community and connection with nature, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to embrace the outdoors and explore the green wonders of Geelong.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by John Sheely (@bundogs)

One of the highlights of the day will be the special interest groups that are participating in the event. You’ll have the chance to engage with enthusiasts from the Australian Plants Society Geelong and Beekeepers Geelong. It’s a unique opportunity to learn more about these fascinating areas of interest and perhaps discover a new passion.

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s on the agenda for the Geelong Botanic Gardens Open Day:

• 10:00 am to 10:20 am: The day kicks off with a warm welcome by the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative, featuring a Welcome to Country ceremony and a traditional smoking ceremony.
• 10:30 am to 11:15 am: Prepare to be dazzled as Dazzling Dan the Magic Man takes the stage with a mesmerizing magic show.
• 11:15 am to 12:15 pm (approximately): Join the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens for a guided tour that departs from the front entry gate at the top of Podbury Drive.
• 11:30 am to 12:15 pm: Enjoy the sweet sounds of Sweethearts Music as they take centre stage with a live performance.
• 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm: For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance will host a Forest Therapy talk and walk, departing from the front entry gate at the top of Podbury Drive.
• 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm: The Andrea Robertson Duo will serenade visitors with their musical talents.
• 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (approximately): Don’t miss another chance to explore the wonders of the gardens with a guided walk, led by the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens. This one also departs from the front entry gate at the top of Podbury Drive.

“We encourage community members to head along to this action-packed day. Highlights of the event include the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative’s Welcome to Country smoking ceremony and ochre face painting, pot planting sessions with the Geelong Organic Gardeners, guided tours, and mesmerizing magic shows by the renowned Dazzling Dan the Magic Man,” says Mayor Trent Sullivan.

“With an array of food options and live music, there is plenty to see and do.”

In addition to the fantastic activities on Open Day, the City of Geelong is actively seeking input on how the Geelong Botanic Gardens will evolve in the future. An online survey is currently open for community members to share their thoughts until Friday, 4th November 2023. You can also leave feedback on the virtual Botanic Garden Idea Board or provide input during your visit on 8th October 2023. Hard copies of the survey are available at the City’s Customer Service Centres.

You can find further details here.