As the vibrant colours of early summer unfold, downtown Tauranga is set to come alive with Bloom in the Bay, a central highlight of the Bayleys-sponsored Bay of Plenty Garden & Art Festival from November 14-17.

Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, this festival hub sponsored by Craigs Investment Partners promises a sensory feast with mixologists shaking up craft cocktails, an array of art displays, and a medley of garden-themed activities that cater to all ages.

"The waterfront will be flourishing with great music, a wellbeing area, fantastic art, a speakers’ corner, and mouthwatering food and beverages," says festival director Marc Anderson.

With more than 70 talented artists showcasing their works in The Cargo Shed's Festival Art Gallery and the chance to participate in workshops and live entertainment, attendees can immerse themselves in a tapestry of culture, community, and creativity.

Bloom in the Bay is the central jewel in the crown of the four-day event which spans 79 garden and art stops on the Palmers Bethlehem-sponsored Garden and Art Trail across the western Bay of Plenty.

The popular Floral Art Competition, workshops, presentations, inspirational speakers, live entertainment, creative demonstrations, and stage acts will turn the waterfront into Tauranga’s best festival this year.

“As a festivalgoer you will be able to pop into Bloom in the Bay to grab a coffee or something to eat while planning your daily garden and art trail route, incorporate a visit between garden and art stops, or organise your daily schedule to make sure you catch one of our inspirational speakers,” said Anderson.

Entry to Bloom in the Bay is free for Festival Pass Holders and only $5 at the gate for everyone else (kids under 14 are free).

The Multi-Day Festival Pack, for $80, gives access to the festival for all four days, and the $45 1-Day Festival Pack gives access to the festival for any one day. Both packs include a festival pass, directory, and map.

Passes to the Bay of Plenty Garden & Art Festival from November 14-17, are available from Palmers Bethlehem; online at Eventfinda; also now available at Décor Gardenworld, Pacifica Home and Garden World, Tropicana Garden Work, The Arts Junction – Katikati, Te Puke Florists,  or visit www.gardenandartfestival.co.nz. A service fee applies if purchased online.

The Weekend Sun has a pair of multi-day passes to giveaway to who can tell us what dates this year’s 2024 Bay of Plenty Garden & Art Festival on?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz

Entries must be received by October 15.