Easy Ecology Walk at Bowen Island (In Person)

With a focus on plants, explore the native biodiversity on Bowen Island on a gentle walk along shaded forest trails. Led by former VBGA Education Director Gillian Drake, we will discuss our local ecosystems and identify native ferns, trees, and more.

Tour will start at the library, 30m from the ferry dock (no car needed), and will finish in time to board the 1:15 pm ferry back to Horseshoe Bay. Consider making a day of it and visit Bowen’s many cafes, shops and galleries within walking distance of the ferry.

Storytelling & Hula at Bloedel Conservatory

Join Poh Tan in this storytelling time to connect with plants at Bloedel Conservatory. In addition to being a scientist, Poh is a hula dancer who will share connections with specific plants found in Bloedel through storytelling and hula from Hawai’i. Join us to learn a few basic steps of hula and how hula can help tell meaningful stories about our environment.

For this activity, you need to bring a sarong or a cloth that you can wrap around your hips to be able to dance. No previous experience with hula is needed!

'Plants for Birds' Program and Hummingbird & Songbird Banding

Join us on August 13 from 4pm to 5pm for the ‘Plants for Birds’ program featuring a guided walk highlighting plants that are beneficial for local birds.  Your program will be guided by our Adult and Family Programs Manager and bird & plant enthusiast, Jessica Henry.

The evening will continue with an informative and fascinating session of Songbird & Hummingbird Banding from 5pm-7pm after the Garden has closed.

August Qigong Series (In Person)

Join Anita Wong of the YS Traditional Chinese Medicine & Martial Arts College for an introduction to Qigong.

Qigong is a meditation in motion, and a simple but effective system to enhance overall health and fitness. This exercise incorporates breathing techniques with body movements and directs energy throughout the meridians. Through this three-session course, you will relax the body and mind, strengthen bones, enhance balance, and improve blood circulation. This series is suited for beginners and experienced students, with easy-to-follow steps and deep relaxation. Class starts with Qigong practice, followed by some Taichi steps to close.

State of the World's Birds & How to Save them (Online)

Join Sheri Ellenberger from the Vancouver Avian Research Centre to explore the top human-related causes of bird loss in the world today and what is required to save them.

Our birds face significant dangers, such as pesticides, powerlines, vehicles, agriculture, glass and cats. We will examine what makes these issues especially harmful as a first step toward empowering meaningful action.

We aim to spread a positive message of hope while sharing great resources to help you take action for birds, whether from home, school, or work.

Forest Bathing

Come discover the regenerative power of body and mind in nature with Kristine Koster, certified Forest Therapy Guide. The Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku, forest bathing, is the eco-antidote to modern-day stress. Kristine will lead you through a variety of gentle activities in the Garden, all designed to promote relaxation, wellness, and connection.

Learn how the practice of forest bathing boosts our immune system and supports healing. The walk concludes by sharing wildcrafted tea and treats in the Garden.

Guided Walk through VanDusen Botanical Garden (In Person)

Appreciate VanDusen Botanical Garden on a deeper level by joining Garden Superintendent Laura Principe, for a one-hour guided walk.

Laura will talk about VanDusen’s infrastructure that supports the collection of plants, focusing on irrigation and drainage. Also, she will include information about the aquifer, pond and waterfall systems.