One of Victoria’s most treasured gardens is marking its 80th anniversary with a month of art, music and special community events.
Abkhazi Garden will host a fall art show, plant sale, free open house and two choir performances throughout September and into October. Visitors can also explore the garden’s new Interpretive Centre, located inside the Summerhouse.
The centre features photographs, artifacts and historical panels telling the story of Prince and Princess Abkhazi. The exhibit explores their lives before they met, their experiences during the Second World War, their reunion in New York City and the creation of the garden they built together.
The anniversary celebrations begin with the Abkhazi Garden Fall Art Show Fundraiser, running from Monday, September 7th to Monday, October 12th.
The exhibition will feature paintings inspired by the garden and created by local artists who participated in this year’s plein air Artists in the Garden program. The artwork will also be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the garden.
On Labour Day, September 7th, participating artists will be at the garden from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with their work displayed throughout the property. Wooden bowls created by local artist Duncan Kemp will also be available.
From September 8th to October 11th, artwork will remain on display inside the Teahouse and gift shop.
The show concludes on Thanksgiving Monday, October 12th, when paintings and wooden bowls will be available inside the Teahouse.
Free open house and fall plant sale
Families will have another opportunity to experience the garden during a free open house on Grandparents Day, Sunday, September 13th.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their grandchildren, explore the heritage garden and learn about its legacy. Lawn games will be available, along with a draw for Afternoon Tea for Two at the Teahouse.
A fall plant sale will take place the same day, offering interesting plants and bulbs for home gardens. Abkhazi Garden’s head gardener will be available to answer questions, and proceeds from the sale will support the ongoing maintenance of the property.
Both events will go ahead rain or shine, and admission is free.
Choirs perform for International Day of Peace
Abkhazi Garden will also recognize the International Day of Peace with two live choir performances.
The Victoria Ukrainian Kalyna Choir will perform at 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 20th.
On Monday, September 21st, a recognition of the International Day of Peace will begin at 4 p.m., followed by a performance from the Balkan Babes Choir.
The series of events gives Victorians several opportunities to explore the garden, discover its history and help support its preservation during its milestone anniversary year.
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