The Esquimalt Arts Festival returns to its roots at the English Inn this month.
On Aug. 16, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. the grounds of the historic Inn will bustle with music, art and a variety of interactive, fun “happenings” including Splash Of Paint featuring Molly Newman as Emily Carr.
“The last few years it’s been in Gorge Point Park, this year I wanted to bring the Esquimalt Arts Festival back to the Old English Inn where it started,” said Morlene Tomlinson, Township Community Arts Council founding president.
The Township Community Arts Council brings together 38 artists, five musical performances and, from 1 to 4 p.m. you can create your own masterpiece and enter a draw to win When Emily Carr Met Woo, a book by Monica Kulling.
“We have everything from fine art to lovely pottery, a variety of different media, a strawberry tea” said Tomlinson, listing the day’s activities.
The event includes musical entertainment by Rig a Jig, accordionist Mary Ross, vocalist Lorraine Nygaard and the Carolina Bluebirds. Heritage Productions volunteers wearing vintage costumes will be wandering the fragrant gardens providing genteel atmosphere.
“Join us for lunch with the Great Pacific Pasty Company and West Coast Salmon Burgers in our Open Air Café,” added Tomlinson.
Or treat yourself to strawberry tea served up in fine style by the English Inn and volunteers of the Township Community Arts Council.
“The tea will be down by the outdoor fireplace, it’s a lovely area there,” she said.
The event is free to attend and promises fun for all ages. The English Inn is at 429 Lampson Str. Go to townshiparts.org for more information.