Government House Adelaide will be open from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, 12 October 2025, offering visitors the chance to explore the gardens, engage with natural features, and learn about ongoing conservation and sustainability efforts.
Highlights include the Governor’s Rose Garden, featuring a collection of roses propagated over the past 35 State Governors; a descendant of the Lone Pine from Gallipoli; and a remarkable 150-year-old Moreton Bay Fig.
The event will also offer free self-guided tours of Government House Adelaide - the oldest Government House in Australia - with guides sharing insights into its historical significance and its role as the official residence of South Australia’s Governors. Additionally, guides from the Friends of the Botanic Gardens will lead tours of the grounds, discussing the garden’s evolution, the symbolism behind plantings, and ongoing preservation efforts.
Visitors are encouraged to visit the Therapeutic Horticulture Australia marquee - a tranquil space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with oneself, others, and nature. This program is presented in partnership with ECH, an SA-based provider of retirement living and in-home care services supporting confident and independent living.
Schedule of Nature Festival Activities
Therapeutic Horticulture Australia (THA) Marquee
Between 10-2pm in the THA Marque - to make and take home
Create a Lavender gum nut treasure
Learn how to create a simple flower crown
Between 10-2pm - contribute to an installation
Contribute to a giant flower wreath in situ
Leave a message on a Magnolia leaf
TaiChi - Flow - on the half hour 10.30, 11.30, 12.30, 1.30pm
Trees For Life
10-2pm (or until stocks run out) - take home a local Australian plant to grow in your home garden. Experts from TFL onsite to chat.
Flower Printing 11-12MD - drop in
Using flowers and leaves make unique prints on fabric to take home - a small celebration of seasons, handcraft, and community.
Blackwood Scouts will be providing a BBQ and Grounds for Growth (Novita) will be providing coffee/tea/cold drinks and a cakes.
Admission to the Open Day and all activities is free. All are welcome, and the event is suitable for all ages. Bookings are not required.
For more information, please visit governor.sa.gov.au or contact Government House on (08) 8203 9800.
Image Courtesy of Government House
Image Courtesy of ECH: Melanie Sanders
