Sunday, July 26th Workshops at Five Oaks Centre

What does drop-in event mean?

The event runs for two hours, and you're welcome to arrive and leave at any time during the event. To ensure you have enough time to complete the activity, please arrive at least 30 minutes before the event ends.

For example, if the event runs from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., you might choose to attend from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., 10:15 to 10:50 a.m., or even 10:55 to 11:30 a.m. The amount of time you spend at the event is entirely up to you.

Who is facilitating the event?

Kailey Stewart, founder of ecothera
Horticultural Therapy Practitioner
Social Service Work Student
Master Gardener In-Training

Amy Sandy, founder of Longfish Gardens
Longfish Gardens is a small-scale gardening initiative, with plans to expand, based in Six Nations of the Grand River. Founded by Amy Sandy, it is dedicated to reconnecting people with the land through food, nature, and education. Longfish Gardens focuses on sustainable food production, native plants, pollinator conservation, and making gardening approachable for people of all experience levels.

The goal of Longfish Gardens is to inspire people to grow their own food, build healthier ecosystems, and develop a deeper connection with the natural world.

Whether you’re planting your first seed or tending an established garden, Longfish Gardens believes that every garden—big or small—has the power to nourish people, support wildlife, and strengthen communities.

Do I need to pre-register or can I pay in-person?

Pre-registration is required to ensure we can prepare sufficient materials for each participant and plan accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation and support!

What does one admission fee cover?

One Activity Ticket includes materials for one participant to complete one set of the planned activities.

Can one activity be shared between to participants?

The purchase of at least one activity ticket is required to participate in the workshop. Each activity ticket includes materials for one participant and one complete activity kit.

Parents and caregivers are welcome to assist children during the workshop; however, a separate ticket is required for each child participating in the activity. Children under 18 months of age may attend free of charge when accompanied by a registered participant.

Do I need to stay on-site with my child?

Yes, adult supervision is required for all participants 17 and under.

Do I need experience or tools?

No! Participants of all skill levels are welcome. Guidance will be provided throughout the activity, and all tools and materials are supplied.

Where do I complete registration form and waiver?

After completing the online ticket purchase a confirmation e-mail with link to registration form and waiver will be sent. Please complete documents prior to arriving on-site. 

What is the refund policy?

Full refunds are available up to 72 hours before the workshop start time.

If you are unable to attend after that, workshop credits may be issued for cancellations made at least 3 hours before the event begins. Credits are valid for up to two months.

Unfortunately, cancellations made within 3 hours of the workshop or no-shows are not eligible for refunds or credits, as materials have been purchased and workshop preparation and setup have already been completed.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Is there a rain date?

This series is offered rain or shine under the shelter of our event tent. Please dress for the weather and bring any personal items you may need to stay comfortable. We look forward to spending quality time outdoors with you!

Where do the workshops take place?

This series is offered at Five Oaks Centre in Paris, Ontario. Please park in the main parking lot of Five Oaks Centre (1 Bethel Road, Paris N3L 3E3). Walk the very short distance to the activity tent in the main field.

Can we stay on-site after completing workshop?

Participants are welcome to enjoy the event area—including the field and playground—during the two-hour event window. If participants or accompanying guests wish to explore other areas of the property or remain on-site beyond the event hours, they must purchase a Five Oaks site-access day pass.

The day pass is $10 per adult, payable by exact cash or e-transfer. Thank you for your cooperation!

Events

Family Potted Herb Workshop and Container Veggie Gardening 101 | Drop-In 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Curious about gardening and interested in trying container gardening? Just getting started and looking for tips and guidance? Or perhaps you're an experienced gardener eager to share your knowledge and connect with others?

Join us for a fun, hands-on workshop where gardeners of all ages and experience levels are welcome. Together, we'll explore the basics of growing herbs and vegetables in containers, share ideas, and celebrate the joy of gardening.

Learn More + Pre-Register

Kids Wildflower Seed Bomb and Art Workshop | Drop-In 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Let's create wildflower seed bombs while learning how to mix clay, soil, and native wildflower seeds. Along the way, discover the importance of Ontario’s native wildflowers, where seed bombs can be responsibly dispersed, and how native plants support pollinators and local ecosystems.

Additional activities include colouring and painting wildflower-themed activity sheets using markers and natural pigment paints. Participants will also learn simple, practical ways to create their own pollinator-friendly or restoration garden at home, helping to support biodiversity in their own communities.

Youth and Adult Herbal Fire Starter and Wildflower Pressing Workshop | Drop-In 3-5 p.m.

Participants will create their own herbal fire starters using dried flowers, herbs, and natural materials while learning about the historical and practical uses of plants in everyday life. This engaging activity combines nature, wellness, and craftsmanship, resulting in a beautiful and functional item to take home.

Participants will also explore the art of wildflower pressing, learning techniques for preserving flowers and foliage collected from gardens or responsibly sourced materials. Along the way, we'll discuss plant identification, ethical harvesting practices, and creative ways to use pressed botanicals in cards, journals, artwork, and home décor. This relaxing workshop encourages mindfulness, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Learn More + Pre-Register