That Bloomin’ Garden Show and Art Sale, which started with a focus on back alleys in 2007, is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this May.

“It started from a revitalization working group,” said Karen Mykietka, the producer of the show. A group of like-minded people sat down 10 years ago and brainstormed a project that brought beatification to back alleys.

Little did they know back then that this small project would draw many neighbours together and create a lot of life-long friends.

Local sculptor Ritchie Velthuis has been involved with the garden show since its inception. He said he remembers the project created an opportunity to meet and visit neighbours.

“That’s ultimately what it was supposed to be about; just getting people in the neighbourhood talking and getting to know each other, and through that [process of] building a community, a natural revitalization happens.”

What started as a back alley initiative has now bloomed into one of the most unique community-oriented garden and art shows in the city. That Bloomin’ Garden Show and Art Sale features different products and art from talented local artists and artisans. You can choose from anything like paintings, sculptures, and garden decor to glasswork, pottery, and birdhouses. Your mother may appreciate you taking her there and possibly getting her a gift for Mother’s Day, just saying.

Aside from being an unique garden show which brings community together, it’s also a full-blown tour for your senses: the delicious smell from the scrumptious brunch or lunch prepared by Creative Quality Catering intertwining with floral fragrance from the local greenhouses.

Then there’s the melody composed from local musicians and children’s laughter. And of course there’s the beautiful plants from Prairie Gardens and Dina’s Greenhouse and a compost sale to fulfill your garden needs. If that’s not enough, you can even taste different honeys and experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the show this year.

If you own a pair of rubber boots or a bow tie and are feeling fancy, you should definitely check out the Rubber Boots and Bow Tie Garden Party in June. Music, wine, food, sculptures, neighbours in rubber boots and bow ties: what else would you need for a fancy garden party?

See you there!

BLOOMIN’ GARDEN SHOW & ART SALE

May 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Alberta Avenue Community Centre
9210 – 118 Ave

RUBBER BOOTS AND BOW TIE GARDEN PARTY

June 25, 7:30 p.m.
Alberta Avenue Community Garden
9210  -118 Avenue

Tickets $10 in advance; $20 at the door.
Buy online at albertaave.org

Feature Image: Stuart Ballah. Credit: Rebecca Lippiatt