Stroll Through History at Government House This Summer

Released on June 2, 2015

It’s Tourism Awareness Week across Canada and Government House is recognizing it by rolling out a variety of exciting events and activities.  The summer season at Government House is one of the busiest times of the year.

The Edwardian Gardens are in full bloom and summer events are in full swing.  Government House receives thousands of visitors over the summer months.  In 2014, the Provincial Heritage Property and National Historic Site received more than 8,000 visitors in July alone - more visitors than any other month that year.

“Government House comes alive in the summer time,” Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Mark Docherty said.  “Visitors can take part in the wide variety of programming offered, or just wander through the grounds surrounding the property.  It’s a wonderful place to explore - inside and out.”

A wide array of programs and events will be offered at Government House this summer.  Garden lovers will be able to participate in historical tours through the Edwardian Gardens with a modern-day George Watt, Government House’s original head gardener, three Saturdays during the summer: June 27, July 25 and August 29.

Starting July 5, history buffs and theatre enthusiasts can take in the History Alive! Vignettes - short, live skits that reimagine life at Government House from 1898-1910.  These take place at Government House Sundays and Tuesdays from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

The vignettes, for the first time ever, will also be offered at the Legislative Building Monday afternoons and will highlight important historical moments that unfolded during the early days of the Saskatchewan Legislature.  The vignettes run until August 18.

Art classes in acrylics, plein air painting and more will be offered at Government House in partnership with the Cathedral Art School and Studio at various times throughout the summer.  To register, visit www.cathedralartschool.ca.

Wednesday, August 5, Government House will offer a movie night for the second year in a row.  Last year, Government House showed Mary Poppins on a warm, clear night.  Approximately 250 people attended.  This year’s film has not yet been chosen.  Government House’s Facebook and Twitter followers can help staff select the movie closer to the date.

The latest feature exhibit, Celebrate the Flag!, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the national flag and will be up until September 20.  Guests can discover how the flag was created, share a personal Canadian story in the video booth and design a unique flag to hang up in the exhibit.

Those just looking for a new lunch spot can pre-order a picnic basket from Butler’s Pantry and enjoy lunch on the lawn.  Order forms are available on Government House’s website.  There are three baskets to choose from.

For more information about summer activities at Government House, call 306-787-5773 or visit www.governmenthouse.gov.sk.ca.  Guests can also keep up-to-date on the latest events at Government House through Facebook (facebook.com/governmenthouse) and Twitter (@Govt_House).  Admission is always free.  Wi-Fi is free and available to all visitors.  Until Labour Day, Government House, located at 4607 Dewdney Avenue, is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

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For more information, contact:

Chelsea Coupal
Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5781
Email: chelsea.coupal@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-8152