Harrison, BC (July 21, 2020): The first two editions of the annual Harrison Sunflower Festival, in 2018 and 2019, were huge successes. Countless guests, from across the region and beyond, descended upon the grounds at Yale Road to marvel at the beauty of acre upon acre of sunflowers, plus many other all-ages attractions.
This year, in order to ensure everyone’s health and safety, the usual components of the festival have been reimagined. And so, while there may not be a formal festival in 2020, festival presenters Tulips of the Valley are pleased to bring you the Harrison Sunflower Experience, offering plenty of safe, family-friendly ways to see the sunflowers — and take some cherished memories (as well as your own sunflowers) home with you.
Harrison Sunflower Festival
The fields will be alive with 25 different varieties of sunflowers, and more than 50 varieties of dahlias. Plus, this year the team has planted an array of colourful gladiolas. From mid-August to Labour Day, roam more than three kilometres of pathways throughout the fields. Strict social-distancing guidelines will be in place for you and your loved ones’ peace of mind, including:
• the fields’ capacity will be limited to 25%
• directional pathways that are 3 to 5 metres wide
• hand-sanitizing stations and safety notices placed where needed
• staff will be sanitizing high-touch areas throughout the day
• tickets will be sold online only, per one-hour block
• limited hands-on photo-op props
• no playground, picnic tables or lawn games this year.
Harrison Sunflower Festival
In addition to the breathtaking flower fields, guests can expect freshly cut flowers and local Harrison corn for sale. Cool off with an individually wrapped frozen treat or enjoy a delicious meal to-go from a food truck (located in the parking lot, off the fields). (And don’t forget — dozens of great local restaurants are just a few minutes’ drive away in Harrison.)
“This summer, everyone is looking for ways to have fun while staying local and staying safe,” says Tulips of the Valley co-founder Kate Onos-Gilbert. “I hope everyone in the region who enjoyed the Harrison Sunflower Festival in years past — and those who haven’t had the opportunity before — will come and spend some time among the flowers. It’s the perfect way to relax in nature.”
Tickets for the Harrison Sunflower Experience go on sale Friday, August 7. Please note that due to this summer’s unusually chilly weather, Tulips of the Valley can’t yet provide an official opening date, but mid-August is the aim. Keep an eye on the social media links below for updates.
Harrison Sunflower Festival
Instagram: @chilliwacksunflowerfest
Facebook: chilliwacksunflowerfest
Location is 41310 Yale Road (entrance off Royalwood Drive).
Tickets will go on sale on August 7. Ticket prices vary; children two and under are admitted free. For more information, visit: harrisonsunflowerfest.com.
