An inside look at the Regina Floral Conservatory’s opportunities
by wren gessner, contributor
With fall just around the corner, students with be looking for a cozy place to study. While some may take comfort in the local Starbucks, why not consider supporting a local, volunteer-run, tropical getaway?
The Regina Floral Conservatory is a hidden gem that most students don’t seem to be aware of. However, I can attest that this beautiful location has everything you’ll need for that perfect study session or for a relaxing afternoon. I had the opportunity to speak with two volunteers, Angela and Arlee, about the conservatory and everything they are offering this coming year. These were some of the bubbliest people I have met, and they immediately made me feel super welcome.
Perhaps the most unique addition to their re-opening for fall is their new theme, focused on wellness and mental health. Plants are known to play a part in relaxation and vitality, and this floral conservatory has always been one of the most tranquil places in Regina. This year, the Regina Floral Conservatory has created an additional walking tour throughout the plant life. As one walks along the path, smells the flowers, and listens to the waterfalls, they can also read the signs which talk about the benefits of being in nature.
If self-guided walks aren’t your thing, the conservatory has a variety of programs for all ages. With the stress of quizzes and midterms already in our midst, why not consider joining others for an hour of tranquility? Tranquility hour is a time to visit the conservatory and enjoy a quiet space where you can reflect or enjoy a breath of fresh air. This program runs every Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. If a quiet setting isn’t what you’re looking for, the conservatory also offers a lunch program on Fridays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. This is a bring your own lunch event where you can enjoy your lunch on the benches and chairs provided. With all the friendly faces around, you might even meet a new acquaintance.
Don’t forget about the free tea and coffee that is always provided. The perfect drinks for a post-class study session! For those with little ones under five years old, the conservatory offers a “Little Gardeners” program where kids can go enjoy the flowers, play at a variety of stations, and even plant a flower of their own. The program begins on September 27 with registration closing September 17.
For adults who would like to get a little more hands on, the Regina Floral Conservatory also offers a yearly membership for $25. This membership gives you access to the morning hours to help plant flowers, greet people at the front, and (the coolest in my opinion) access to the bubble. Angela and Arlee were kind enough to show me around the bubble, which is where they store all their plants used for the conservatory. They have a variety of mother plants that provide saplings, and hundreds of little starter plants.
Did I mention entry is entirely by donation? The conservatory uses any donations to help keep the building running and create beautiful displays throughout the year. If you’re thinking of visiting, their general hours are 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Their official website is reginafloralconservatory.ca if you would like more information. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to study, having a social hour, or just want to escape the colder months approaching, the Regina Floral Conservatory is always a happy, relaxing place to visit.
