Events, Flora and Courses

Public art, lectures, seasonal blooms, family adventures and courses — there is always something happening at VanDusen. See what’s on now and coming up soon.

Month

Online Speaker Series 2020: “Lightning Strikes VanDusen”

Monday, November 30 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Presented by: Samantha Sivertz

In June 2020, three trees in the giant sequoia grove at VanDusen Botanical Garden were struck by lightning, leaving the ground littered with broken branches, wood fragments and shredded bark. The trees will likely survive but will carry lightning scars for the rest of their long lives. How did these sequoias withstand the shock of over 100 million volts? In this presentation Plant Documentation Technician Samantha Sivertz will explore what happens when a tree is struck by lightning, tell stories of past lightning strikes at VanDusen, and discuss how botanical gardens deal with this destructive weather phenomenon.

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VanDusen Festival of Lights

Tuesday, December 8 - Sunday, January 3 2021

Reimagined for 2020, visitors will have the opportunity to take in the festival and experience the wonder of the winter season in a magical outdoor garden setting with themed areas, unique light features, and holiday music. VBGA Member discount available with valid current membership.

Tickets will not be sold onsite to limit contact between visitors and staff.

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Winter Solstice Gathering

Sunday, December 20 12:00pm - 1:30pm

If you ever wondered what VanDusen’s Medicine Wheel Ceremony is about but never made it to an in-person celebration, this is your opportunity to participate in an online ceremony through Zoom!

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Online Speaker Series 2021: "A Remarkable Ice Age Megaflood in Southwestern BC"

Tuesday, January 26 2021 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Presented by: John Clague

About 11,500 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, floodwaters up to 100 m deep raced down the Fraser Canyon from south of Williams Lake to present-day Hope. Upon reaching Hope, the flood entered and spread westward across the Fraser Lowland before entering the sea south of Vancouver. In this presentation, SFU geologist and professor, and Order of Canada recipient John Clague describes the flood and its effects on the landscape, and explains its cause.

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The Jewel Atop Vancouver

Sunday, January 31 2021

Purchase the Official Bloedel Conservatory 50th Anniversary Commemorative Booklet online!

Online Speaker Series 2021: "VanDusen’s Fascinating Birdlife"

Thursday, February 25 2021 6:30pm -7:30pm

Presented by: Debbie Hlady

Discover VanDusen Botanical Garden’s diverse bird life of over 100 species living in variety of unique habitats. Swallows, tanagers & many migratory birds visit VanDusen & Vancouver backyards after an amazing flyway journey from Central & South America! Learn about what garden plants our feathered friends prefer & even learn a few bird songs!!

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