What better way to spend an afternoon with mom than on the lawns of Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University?
The 22nd annual Mother’s Day Paint-In and Craft Fair runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday (May 14) and promises to provide great entertainment for the whole family, especially mom.
“I think it’s such a success because it’s just a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with the community … you see so many families there and multiple generations represented, truly just enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful environment,” said Katharine Harrold, RRU’s vice-president of communications and advancement.
Among a variety of activities, West Shore artisans and vendors will display original paintings, jewelry, quilts and other items, and the Italian Garden will be ‘blooming’ with live painters.
Those looking to get a historical perspective on the former Dunsmuir property will be able to engage in two interpretive presentations with the university’s archivist. At 11 a.m., the Dunsmuir daughters will be the focus, while the 1 p.m. presentation will focus on the life and music of Elinor Dunsmuir.
Featured on the main musical stage will be the Royal Bay secondary R&B band, the Westshore Community Concert Band and jazz duo Karel Roessingh and Joey Smith.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase some local West Shore talent,” Harrold noted.
For the kids, the Four Seasons Musical Theatre Group will host activities at 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., and Tickles the Clown will entertain at 2:30.
Running in conjunction with the Paint-In will be five- and 10-kilometre walks organized by the Juan de Fuca Pathfinders Walking Club.
“We’ve mapped out a (route) that goes through the gardens and the Royal Roads grounds,” said Pathfinders member Christine Desjardins. “We encourage our walkers to go down and go through the Paint-In, look at the stalls, participate in it and have lunch.”
Anyone is welcome to participate in the walks, with registration taking place at the Westshore Centre for Learning on Sooke Road beginning at 9:30 a.m. The walk will get underway at 10.
joel.tansey@goldstreamgazette.com
Twitter: @joelgazette