Festival of Roses turns 20
‘‘This historic garden was created from the collection of Trevor Griffiths and is recognised by the World Federation of Rose Societies as a Garden of Excellence and has been awarded the status of Garden of National Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust,’’ Thomas said.
Using the new rose garden as the catalyst, the Timaru Festival of Roses was created in 2002.
Over the years the festival has included a number of different features, such as the New Zealand Hat and Hair Awards.
Thomas said at the festival’s cocktail party, which would include past committee members and invited guests to open the festival, about 12 hats that featured in the awards will be on display.
‘‘It will be about celebrating the great things people did in the festival in the past.’’
Other festival highlights will be the Children’s Floral Fantasy – botanical artwork from Timaru’s school children, floral art exhibitions, the South Canterbury Rose Society annual rose show and sales, and the market day on Caroline Bay on Sunday.
‘‘We also have NZ Gardening editor Lynda Hallinan on Saturday hosting workshops,’’ Thomas said.
These include Hallinan sharing her love of roses, and showing participants edible homemade gifts.
In the Caroline Bay Hall on Saturday from 1.30pm and Sunday will be a display of botanical creations from South Canterbury school children.everything’s rosy with
Thomas said the Christmas Market Day on the Bay on Sunday, will include live music and stalls, with musician Jason Kerrison also performing.
On the same day there will be a free demonstration on the care of roses, at the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, at 1.30pm.
The Caroline Bay Association rides will be also running on Sunday.
For more information visit festivalofroses.co.nz.