Lots to see at the Artisans’ Festival at the Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

By Keith and Heather Nicol

We enjoyed the Irish music of David Somers

     Last year we attended the Artisan’s Festival at the Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens for the first time and were very impressed by the range of artisans which presented their wares in a relaxing woodland setting. This year there are close to 80 exhibitors featuring  pottery to paintings to wood work and everything in between so there is alot to choose from. The exhibitors tend to be mostly located in small open meadows but some are in enclosed areas like Santa’s Barn. 

      From the map we could see that there are many trails that wind through the forest and so we will have to return for another visit to fully explore the gardens. We did take one side trail to the labyrinth which is a special spot worth investigating.  We also appreciated the musicians who were playing music along the way and each day of the festival there are different people playing at the different venues.  The festival runs from Saturday, September 1 to Monday, September 3.  The event is pet friendly and there is an ATM and food trucks on site.  The 24 acre Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens offers a tranquil setting to enjoy nature and this weekend there is an added bonus of the artisans’ festival.  We are looking forward on coming back to see the gardens when the rhododendrons are in full bloom since they have one of the largest collections of rhodos on the Island.  The gardens are located about 15 north of Courtenay off the North Island Highway. For more information see:  http://woodlandgardens.ca/  

Heather viewing some of the creations of Red Cod Forge

 

You can even see Hyacinth the eagle at the MARS exhibit