UTV presenter Rita Fitzgerald was joined recently by her two year old daughter Ellie and Ellie’s grandmother Margaret to officially launch the 2013 Airtricity Garden Festival – Northern Ireland’s premier garden event. Taking place in the stunning setting of the private gardens of Hillsborough Castle from 17 – 19 May this year’s event will feature over 200 exhibitors and promises to offer something for every generation.
Representing the first time the Castle has opened its gardens for a public event, visitors to the show will be treated to three days packed full of show gardens, plants and flowers galore, garden ideas, demonstrations and expert advice, children’s gardening fun, kiddies wheelbarrow races, stalls of all kinds, home-made food, craft workshops, cream teas, jazz and wine on the lawn, entertainment, learning and a lot of fun for every age group.
To top it off there will be a star appearance by celebrity gardener and renowned writer Monty Don. All the activity will be set in the exclusive surrounds of one of Ireland’s most iconic buildings and in addition the house itself will also be open each day with specially discounted rates for show patrons.
Event Organiser, Claire Faulkner is looking forward this year’s event, ” We are thrilled to be the first public event to be given access to the private gardens at Hillsborough Castle which will provide a stunning backdrop for this year’s event. Showcasing the very best in the world of gardening from all over the country the Festival has something for all tastes and all generations. It will be the ultimate ‘Garden Party’!”
Northern Ireland Tourist Board Events Manager, Eddie Rowan said, ” We are delighted to once again support the Airtricity Garden Festival at Hillsborough Castle. This great event will not only showcase a vast array of spectacular flora to add vibrancy and colour to the gardens of Northern Ireland, but it will also generate a significant boost to the local economy. In addition, the range and quality of activity and entertainment on offer for all to experience will encourage more visitors from both at home and beyond to attend. I commend the organisers for their continued dedication to the garden show in Hillsborough and wish everyone a very enjoyable weekend.”
The 2013 Airtricity Garden Festival runs from Friday 17 – Sunday 19 May and is open daily from 10am-6pm with parking on site. Reduced rates are available for tickets booked online in advance of the show. For tickets and more information visit www.gardenshowireland.com.
Source: HortiTrends News Room
