Project Type: Tree Depot
Year: 2017
Season: Summer
Harris Park was the place to be on Saturday, August 19th as over 500 people from the community came out to the Forest Festival, a celebration honouring our trees and forests. Smiles donned the faces of people of all ages, as they enjoyed a fantastic BBQ from Growing Chefs!, a free tree give-a-way, dozens of vendors, a guided educational tree hike, children’s games, a land acknowledgement by Summer Bressette, music, and more.
Many interactive activities took place as well. A large crowd took in a Bird of Prey show from the Canadian Raptor Conservancy, while some learned how to do archery from London’s own Hood Archery. Some people made giant letters into tree poetry with help from the Poet Laureate Tom Cull, while some made silk paintings with the Society for Creative Anachronism. People also perused the tents and explored the wonderful variety of environmental organizations, local businesses and artisans, to learn about their products and services. Vendors showcased a multitude of tree-based products, from wood carvings to natural beauty products to maple syrup!
At the festival’s end, 300 trees of a wide selection of species had been given away, making it ReForest London’s single biggest Tree Depot to date. Very few were leftover, as they were eagerly scooped up by London residents for planting in their yards. The Tree Depot allowed festival-goers to not only celebrate trees and forests, but also contribute to the natural beautification and reforestation of the city.
A special thanks go out to the festival committee, event sponsors and partners, staff, vendors, volunteers, and the amazing weather! The combined efforts of many made for a most pleasant and memorable home town Forest Festival. It was a true celebration and gift for London and area residents.