Milner Christmas Magic at the Milner Gardens in Qualicum Beach

You may remember that I have done a few media trips to Vancouver Island. In one of them, I had the opportunity to spend some time at the Milner Gardens in Qualicum Beach with my adored mother (last year). I absolutely adored the Milner Gardens, and had a fantastic experience there. I was just sent some information on the upcoming Milner Christmas Magic at the Milner Gardens in Qualicum Beach. Worth making the trip.

Experience Old Fashioned Splendour at Milner Christmas Magic

Tis the season to experience holiday cheer and one of the regions brightest family favourite events – Milner Christmas Magic. Milner Gardens & Woodland celebrates their twelve day festival beginning Friday, December Dec. 2 – 4, 9 – 11, 16 -21, 2011 at their stunning 70 acre estate in Qualicum Beach. The gardens will light up the sky with over 50,000 lights as they adorn the gardens and pathways this holiday season. The popular holiday tradition of lights, music and magic in the Gardens first started in 2003 and each year the event continues to grow thanks to the incredible network of community volunteers and Milner staff.

You may be surprised to know that work begins back in September including a group who test all 50,000 lights. Once the lights are checked, other teams (including a contingent from Coastal Community Credit Union this year!) get busy preparing displays in order to be ready for the December 2nd light up. It’s definitely no small feat testing and stringing 50,000 lights – hanging your own Christmas lights probably doesn’t seem so bad now!

The twelve day festival of lights, music and magic is about more than just light displays, volunteers from the Vancouver Island Regional Library will delight children and grown ups alike with their festive storytelling and of course Santa will be on site every day of the festival so that the kiddies can get their list in time for Christmas. The Teddy Bear Cottage is also a hit for both generations with the antique collectibles as well as soft and cuddly critters on display. Children are invited to guess the number of bears in the gardener’s cottage and someone will win a furry surprize. The gift shops will be open for browsing and stocking up on those special presents for under the tree and don’t miss out on Milner’s specialty homemade jams and jellies.

The festival wouldn’t be complete without the fabulous musicians gracing the gardens with choral and instrumental music. This year’s entertainment begins with Every Voices (sing along carolling on Dec. 2nd) followed by a great list of performers including: Hearts Ease; Cantando Chamber Singers; B2Glee; Startlight Reverie; McShane Sisters; Patt Scrivener; Trio Chocolat plus more. Check www.milnergardens.org for a complete list of dates and performances.

The Tearoom will be open serving up their scrumptious scones with Devonshire cream and other freshly baked goodies as well as other refreshments and light snacks will be on hand to soothe your holiday cravings.

Shuttles will be available for those with mobility concerns and it’s a great idea to bring along a flashlight for extra light along pathways. Gates open at 5pm – 8:30pm Dec. 2-4, 9-11, 16-21. Admission is by donation with all proceeds going to support the gardens – Preserve, Enhance, Educate & Inspire!

Vancouver Island University’s Milner Gardens and Woodland is located at 2179 West Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach. FMI: 250-752-6153

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