Colony Farm Regional Park in Coquitlam will be transformed Sunday into a fairly land for families to enjoy nature with a whimsical twist.
Public Dreams, the society known for its Illuminare festival of lights in Vancouver, is bringing artists, farmers and ecologists together for a Midsummer Fête, which runs from 1 to 5 p.m. June 26.
"It really is chock-a-block with everything you would imagine you would encounter at a traditional summer fête," explained creative director Samantha Jo Simons, who said the free event will have artists, workshops, performances and displays to engage the public in imaginative and creative ways.
For example, a harpist will perform in a fairy ring, the tea and apricot scones will be served by people in costumes and guests will be invited to wear a hat; as well, artistic workshops will use natural materials and people will be invited to weave plants onto a legacy sculpture, build a mandala on the ground with flowers, leaves and grass, and make their own musical instruments.
"These are all things children can do but adults can participate and will enjoy as well, " Simons said.
The Flying Monkey Horn Orchestra will play its handmade instruments and there will be more traditional activities throughout the afternoon, such as storytelling, roving performers and puppetry under tents to protect the public in case it rains.
Public Dreams will be collaborating with artist Marina Szijarto, who serves as artistic director and "green curator" of the event, creating an outdoor gallery of works by well-known artists, artisans, gardeners and beekeeper, and Metro Vancouver is partnering in the event.
DETAILS
The park is located off Lougheed Highway at Colony Farm Road; the event takes place rain or shine. For more information about the event, visit www.publicdreams.org. For more information about Colony Farm Regional Park, visit www.metrovancouver.org.
