We’ve attended the Spadina Strawberry Festival a couple of times and loved it. This event has now morphed into a Garden Party (in 2014, it's called Gatsby's Garden Party). We can’t expect strawberries anymore but I was told the spirit of the event remains. Spadina House is a gorgeous 19th Century home set on an enormous property with adjoining gardens. In such a setting, it feels like the whole family has been invited to the garden party of very rich relatives. When we visited, after behaving nicely when visiting the elegant Spadina House, kids ran wild under the shade of the huge trees to burn off some energy. Others played on the lawn under the indulgent gaze of proper ladies who had all donned their fancy hats for the occasion. While many line-up to get food and refreshments, others enjoy the old-fashioned activities. When we attended, they involved tossing games, stilt walking, shaker making and ice cream making demonstrations. We could even make a small kite. Live musicians entertained children. This was indeed one great garden party. Bring a blanket!
