The QEII Botanic Park is dressed and ready for Christmas thanks to the hard-working ladies of the Garden Club of Grand Cayman (GCGC).
The Club has been dressing the Park for several years as a part of their community works and GCGC member Jill Wood, who’s role is to look after the Botanic Park promotions says this is one way the Club hopes to boost visitation during the holiday season.
“The visitors love it! Lots of people say they enjoy seeing the seasonal decorations. And the members who come out every year to hang the decorations, find joy in keeping Cayman Beautiful,” said Mrs. Wood.
Mrs. Wood says the items add a festive look to the already colorful gardens and laments that an important aspect of the decor is that it is eco-friendly and recycled products.
“We make all the decorations from natural things, palm trees, sticks and the Christmas tree is from collected driftwood. Everything is natural, we do embellish it, but we don’t buy any of the decorations,” she said.
The GCGC each year ensure the decorations are up at the beginning of December and remove them on or before the “Twelfth Night” on January 6th (when Christmas decorations are traditionally put away).
“The joy in seeing visitors enjoying the decorations is truly magical at this time of year,” said John Lawrus Botanic Park Manager.
“The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic park is grateful for the long-standing partnership we have enjoyed with the Garden Club of Grand Cayman. With their annual commitment to decorating the Botanic Park with beautiful handmade Christmas Decor, our annual family fun day and ongoing support for the Children's garden development, the park couldn't be where we are today without the help and support of the Garden Club!” added Mr. Lawrus.
Annual events for the GCGC include the plant sale at the Pink Ladies Christmas Bazaar, the hanging of the Botanic Park Christmas decorations and the Family Fun Day held (at the Park) every January.
All monies raised from their plant sale and Family Fun Day go toward the Children’s Garden currently under construction at the Park.