The Central Okanagan Heritage Society’s spring fundraising gala and silent auction takes place today, Friday June 22nd at 7pm. The Benvoulin Garden Gala is in support of heritage conservation and the historic gardens at Benvoulin Heritage Church and park, 2279 Benvoulin Road.
There will be a lot to enjoy during the evening: live music in the garden with high-energy duo Riverteeth, a wine bar with a selection of wines and wine pairings by The View Winery, delicious hot and cold hors d'oeuvres and a dessert bar. Local businesses have donated lavish prizes for the silent auction including dinner and show at the Kelowna Actor’s Studio, golf at Shannon Lake Golf Club, and numerous gift baskets and gift certificates.
The Garden Gala will recognize several local families for their ongoing support of heritage conservation and will unveil plans for the restoration of the large garden and pathways on the north side of the park. Many thanks to Don Burnett and Gwen Steele for providing their expertise in working with us to transform this garden into a traditional cottage garden and a beautiful new photo-op site, to open in the fall of 2018. The garden will also become a site to recognize individuals, families and businesses through donor bricks lining the paths.
COHS was formed in 1982 when a group of concerned citizens rolled up their sleeves to save and restore the Benvoulin Church. Since then, their work has continued with the conservation of and advocacy for other local heritage sites and buildings including Guisachan House and Gardens and Brent’s Grist Mill. The Society also provides tours and workshops to educate the community about the importance of heritage.
Tickets for the Benvoulin Garden Gala are $50 each and can be purchased by calling 250-861-7188 or email [email protected].