A Blooming Brilliant Day Out

 Esk Garden Fair 

What an unexpected delight the Esk Garden Fair turned out to be!

As we approached the town, we were greeted by hundreds of cars parked along every street, laneway, and every spare patch of grass. It seemed extraordinary for a country town, but it didn’t take long to understand why. The annual Esk Garden Fair was in full swing,  Visitors had come from far and wide.

Now in its 10th year, the fair has become one of the Somerset region’s premier events, celebrating not only gardening but also the creativity, talent, and community spirit of its residents. The town was alive with colour and activity as we explored hundreds of stalls showcasing everything from specialist nurseries and rare plants to handcrafted garden art and unique gifts.

Garden enthusiasts were spoiled for choice. Dozens of expert growers shared their knowledge. There was an impressive selection of plants rarely found in mainstream garden centres. Guest speakers, live music, and demonstrations added to the atmosphere, while the tempting aromas from food vendors made it impossible to resist sampling some local treats.

One of the highlights was the trio of al fresco food courts. People gathered beneath beautifully yarn-bombed trees at tables with handcrafted decorations. The colourful displays created a very cheerful and welcoming setting. 

The fair supports a wonderful local cause. Proceeds from the event contribute to the Esk Mosaic Legacy Project, an inspiring community initiative responsible for the town’s distinctive volunteer-made mosaic totems, that are adding character and charm to the Historic railway precinct. This a completely not for profit event. Entrance was just $5.

Photos from the day. (There were a few!)

Find a spot!

We were amazed at the crowd, and the numbers who had come prepared and bought up big.

I should have had these in my garden!

Table decorations

A new 'Lady' has been created for the past 3 years.

Just modelling.

The mosaic totem pole project.

An ongoing project to crochet the wisteria to drape the length of the historic Esk Railway Station.

Crinkle Creek Garden Art sold out very quickly. 

This morning I happened upon this summary of the fair by one member.

The hours spent knitting crocheting, mosaicing and planning is mind boggling. We happened to sit with a member of the garden club. We were told that the club has more than 100 members. Many of these are also members of the craft groups. 

The Esk Garden Fair is very, very impressive — A true celebration of community, creativity, and country hospitality.  It's an event I will be adding to my calendar. Perhaps not noticed before as I am usually visiting PEI. 

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