AutumnFest arrives at the University’s Botanic Gardens
The University's Botanic Gardens will be alive with music, workshops, arts and crafts, children’s activities, entertainment and more this September.
AutumnFest is the first event of its kind to be held in the gardens, and takes place on Saturday 30 September when visitors can enjoy live music throughout the day, with special performances by Leicester-based band, King Brasstards, among others.
Not only that but visitors to the Botanic Garden can tickle their tastebuds with delicious food and drink available to buy all day, while the little ones are entertained on the giant bouncy castle, outdoor games and facepainting workshops.
University of Leicester Vice Chancellor Nishan Canagarajah said: “The gardens are a special place at any time of the year but AutumnFest promises to provide lots of fun and entertainment for all the family and what’s more it’s free to come along.
“There will be guided tours available, courtesy of our community experts and Attenborough Arts Centre will be bringing the very best of its creative crafts, including some autumn-themed activities. There will also be plants galore available to buy on the day with tips on how to get the best out of your own garden.”
Home to hundreds of different plants from around the world, the Botanic Garden was originally founded in 1921 with the assistance of Leicester Literary and Philosophical Society. It was established on its present site in Glebe Road, Oadby, in 1947 and comprises 16 acres of grounds and greenhouses with arboretum, herb garden, woodland and herbaceous borders, rock gardens, water garden, and a collection of hardy Fuchsia and a series of glasshouses displaying temperate and tropical plants, alpines and succulents.
Nishan added: “AutumnFest will be a fantastic event for the whole community with activities to suit all ages.
“There will be so much to see and do on the day, including the Botanic Garden itself which really is a vibrant jewel sitting on the borders of the city and county.
“Our aim, through events like this, is to ensure the gardens can be enjoyed by everyone now and for years to come so we welcome everyone to come and join us.”
AutumnFest takes place from 11am and is free and open to the public. However, registration via Eventbrite is highly recommended to guarantee access.
Limited street parking will be available around the site.Free parking will also be offered at the University of Leicester campus (University Road, LE1 7RH) with bus services operating from the campus to the Botanic Garden.