A golden oldie on the city’s social calendar is making a triumphant return albeit in a somewhat modified version.
The St. Albert 50+ Club is bringing back its immensely popular garden tour after a hiatus of several years.
“It’s a little different. This time, it’s just gardens. Before, we did homes and gardens,” explained Jeanne Irwin. As one of the event co-organizers, she has already previewed and approved all of the locations. Well, all but one.
“I have not seen the one in Heritage Lakes but I’ve seen all of the others,” she added, noting that she was blown away by what she saw.
She added that the first weekend in July should be the ideal time for such an event.
“It’s a perfect time for a garden tour. We’re a bit early this year which is going to change it a bit, but it’s going to be a great weekend.”
Irwin herself previously offered her own house up as one of the tour’s previous destinations but has bowed out this time to let other places take the spotlight.
“I have an absolutely amazing garden! I’m saving it for next year,” she teased.
The 2016 St. Albert Garden Tour takes place rain or shine on Sunday, July 3 from noon to 5 p.m. Attendees can choose to undertake a self-directed tour ($10 each for members or $13 for non-members) or a guided tour ($15 or $18 each) with maps provided.
“We’ve kept the price palatable. It’s less than a movie.”
Tickets must be purchased by Thursday, June 30 as the office will be closed for the Canada Day holiday next Friday.
Irwin noted that there has already been a lot of interest that has resulted in strong sales. The bus for the guided tour has a limit of 16 seats so people are encouraged to get those spots early. She said that it would undoubtedly sell out. The club is hoping to sell 100 tickets as the event is a fundraiser for its classes and activities, including the seniors’ outreach program.
She also noted that the club is immeasurably grateful to the homeowners for offering to open up their garden gates for this event.
The St. Albert 50+ Club is temporarily located at #301 Grandin Tower. Call 780-459-0433 or visit www.stalbert50plus.com for more information.
