The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival is a vibrant annual event celebrating the beauty and versatility of lavender. Held at Chatfield Farms, this two-day festival showcases over 25 varieties of lavender, offering visitors a sensory experience with fragrant gardens, educational workshops, live music, and local artisan products. The event combines horticultural education with family-friendly activities, making it a popular summer destination for lavender enthusiasts and garden lovers alike.
What Are the Dates and Times for the Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival at Chatfield Farms is scheduled for:
– Saturday, July 20
– Sunday, July 21
Both days, the festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entry at 4 p.m.
How Much Do Tickets Cost and What’s Included?
Ticket prices for the Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult Admission | $13 |
| Members, Seniors (65+), Students, and Military | $10 |
| Children (3-15) | $7 |
| Children under 2 | Free |
Your admission ticket includes:
– Access to the lavender gardens
– Live music performances
– Barrel train rides for kids up to 15
– Complimentary hayrides around the property
– Access to food, dessert, and drink vendors
– Educational programs and demonstrations by horticulturists
What Lavender Varieties Can Visitors Expect to See?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival boasts an impressive array of lavender varieties, including:
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)
- Known for its sweet, herbal, and slightly citrusy scent
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Varieties like ‘Maillette’ have higher amounts of linalyl acetate, enhancing their sweetness
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Lavandula × intermedia (Lavandin)
- A hybrid species with a stronger, more herbal smell due to higher traces of camphor
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Notable varieties: ‘Riverina Thomas’, ‘Super’, and ‘Edelweiss’
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Other Varieties
- Some with higher traces of limonene, offering a more citrus-like scent
- Nearly 15 varieties with colors ranging from white to deep purple
What Activities and Workshops Are Available at the Festival?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival offers a diverse range of activities and workshops:
- Live Music Performances
- Saturday lineup includes Odessa Rose West, The Denver Dolls, and Shelvis and the Roustabouts
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Sunday features different local bands
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Family-Friendly Rides
- Barrel train rides for children up to 15 years old
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Complimentary hayrides around the property for all ages
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Vendor Marketplace
- Local artisans selling lavender products
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Food trucks offering various culinary delights
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Educational Programs
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Horticulturists providing demonstrations and teachings about lavender cultivation and uses
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Exclusive Tours
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Access to dye gardens and the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm, typically closed to the public
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Butterfly House
- Explore the Butterfly House and observe companion plants that complement lavender
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Festival Experience?
To fully enjoy the Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival, consider these tips:
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Arrive Early: The festival opens at 9 a.m., and arriving early ensures you have ample time to explore all offerings.
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Wear Comfortable Shoes: The gardens are expansive, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant experience.
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Bring Sun Protection: Much of the festival is outdoors, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended.
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Attend Workshops: Plan your visit around the educational programs to learn more about lavender cultivation and uses.
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Explore the Variety: Take time to observe and smell the different lavender varieties to appreciate their unique characteristics.
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Support Local Artisans: Browse the vendor marketplace to find unique lavender-themed products and support local businesses.
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Enjoy the Rides: Don’t miss out on the complimentary hayrides and barrel train rides for a full festival experience.
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Capture Memories: The lavender fields provide beautiful photo opportunities, so bring a camera to capture the moment.
What Makes the Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival Unique?
The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival stands out for several reasons:
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Diverse Lavender Collection: With over 25 varieties, it offers one of the most comprehensive lavender displays in the region.
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Educational Focus: The festival combines entertainment with education, providing valuable insights into lavender cultivation and uses.
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Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Activities cater to all ages, making it an ideal outing for families, couples, and individuals alike.
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Local Artisan Support: The festival showcases local talent through its vendor marketplace and musical performances.
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Scenic Location: Held at Chatfield Farms, the festival offers a picturesque setting that enhances the overall experience.
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Sensory Experience: From the fragrant gardens to the live music and culinary offerings, the festival engages all senses.
The Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival is more than just a celebration of a single plant; it’s a comprehensive event that highlights the cultural, culinary, and horticultural significance of lavender. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a lover of natural products, or simply looking for a unique summer experience, this festival offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars for July 20-21 and prepare to immerse yourself in the fragrant world of lavender at one of Denver’s most anticipated summer events.
References:
1. Live at Windermere – What You Should Know About the Lavender Festival at Chatfield Farms
2. Denver Botanic Gardens – 2024 Lavender Festival Craft & Food Vendor Application
3. Downey Dreamin’ – Visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens Lavender Festival in 2024