History of Butchart Gardens Victoria
In 1904, Robert Pim Butchart left his cement manufacturing business in Ontario and started up a new business on Vancouver Island. The site he chose was rich in limestone deposits and this was necessary for cement production. He built the family home next to the quarry. After the limestone was depleted, Robert’s wife Jennie decided to create a garden in the abandoned pit.
As the years went by, they added more themed gardens to their property, such as the Japanese Garden and Italian Garden. The Butcharts traveled all over the world in search of plants and garden decorations. By 1920, thousands of people were visiting Butchart Gardens and it still remains a popular tourist destination with ponds, fountains and beautiful landscaping.
The luxurious family home is used for special events and family entertaining. The legendary Aeolian pipe organ is played on the Saturday Fireworks event during the summer months. Visitors to Butchart Gardens can enjoy a lovely meal at the Dining Room Restaurant with the gardens creating a picturesque backdrop. There is also the Blue Poppy Restaurant and the Coffee Shop for meals and refreshments.
Twelve Days of Christmas Display, Butchart Gardens
This popular display celebrates its 21st year. The walkways and lamp posts are adorned with evergreen branches, and wreaths of holly and berries. Thousands of lights have been placed throughout Butchart Gardens. Visitors can stroll through the gardens at night and see beautiful displays representing the Christmas season. The lights were turned on November 20th.
Live Entertainment at the Piazza, Butchart Gardens
Every evening from 5 pm to 9 pm in the Piazza, visitors can enjoy live entertainment featuring traditional caroling and music.
- The carolers appear at 5 pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm.
- The Festive Brass appear at 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm and 8:30pm.
Live Entertainment at the Butchart Gardens Restaurants
At the Blue Poppy Restaurant, Woody Woodland appears from December 7th to December 25th.
- From December 26th to January 6th, kids can enjoy Paul Kilshaw's magic show
- Nightly shows are at 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The Dining Room Restaurant features seasonal entertainment for diners.
- Lynn McNeill - November 30 - December 4, December 9 - 12, 16 - 18, 23 - January 6
- Toni Blodgett - December 5 - 8, 13 - 15, 19 - 22
Outdoor Skating at Butchart Gardens
The beautifully decorated outdoor skating rink is open for public skating for 40 minute sessions starting every hour. Times have to be booked at the Visitor Information Centre. Skate rentals are available. As a special treat, the local skating clubs will be performing on the ice from 3:00 to 4:00pm every Saturday and Sunday. This event is fun for the entire family.
Because of the popularity of the Magic of Christmas Event, it is highly recommended to buy tickets online at the Butchart Gardens website. There are special events held year round and Christmas is one that nobody should miss.
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Picture courtesy of FreeFoto.com
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