Lieutenant-Governor's Garden Party Returns

Mark your social calenders, the lieutenant-governor's annual garden party is back.

After a three year hiatus, the widely anticipated garden party will return this year, but with a few interesting twists.

With Government House undergoing extensive renovations for the next three years, the event is going on the road.

This year's party will be held inside the Halifax Citadel, one of Canada's most visited historic sites.

The event will take place on Wednesday, June 20, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Those attending can enter the citadel through the main gate.

And whereas in the past, the event was by invitation only, this year's garden party is being opened up to all Nova Scotians.

It was time to bring back the tradition of the garden party, said Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis.

"Nearly every day someone asks me about the garden party," said the lieutenant-governor. "I did not want to wait until Government House was completed in 2009."

Extending an open invitation to the garden party has been done with great success by the other lieutenant-governors in Atlantic Canada, said Ms. Francis.

Since there is limited parking at the citadel, those attending the party can park at the Garrison Grounds off Ahearn Avenue. A shuttle bus service will depart every 15 minutes from the Garrison Grounds starting at 1:45 p.m.

Attendees should note that the citadel parade square is a gravel surface and appropriate footwear is advised.