Gardeners and homesteaders from across the region are invited to beat the winter blues at the Waterford Seedy Saturday Garden and Homestead Show on Saturday, February 7.
The event has become very popular and runs from noon to 5 p.m. at Waterford District High School (WDHS). This year’s event will feature more than 60 vendors focused on gardening, food growing, and homesteading.
Organizer Jennifer Thompson says the Seedy Saturday is designed to inspire, educate, and help people get ready for the growing season. Vendors will include seed companies, local crafters, horticultural groups, and community projects like the Simcoe Food Forest.
Attendees can also take part in the ever-popular seed exchange. Seed savers are encouraged to bring their own saved seeds to be packaged and traded at a comprehensive exchange table featuring a wide variety of seeds and bulbs. Master Gardeners will also be on hand to answer planting and growing questions. Thompson believes they have made improvements to this process.
New this year is expanded homesteading content, including vendors focused on solar power, water storage, beekeeping, maple syrup, and cheese making. Thompson add that more than just plants can grow in the backyard.
The family-friendly event features a children’s area, hot food, and door prizes, and Thompson says it’s designed as a way to give back to the community.
Last year’s donations raised more than $900 and hundreds of pounds of food for Waterford Food Cupboard. The show also provides volunteer hours for Waterford District High School students, helping them connect with local businesses and community groups.
WDHS has accessible entrances at the rear, commonly referred to as the bus doors. Visitors are encouraged to bring cash for vendors, though many also accept tap or e-transfer. Check out the events Facebook page for a complete list of vendors.
Written by Jeremy Hall