Gather your garden-loving friends and family this Mother’s Day for the Botanica Festival, the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)’s annual celebration of the natural environment, sustainability and gardening.
Returning on Sunday 10 May 2026 to the iconic Rippon Lea Estate, this much-loved event transforms the heritage-listed grounds into a vibrant showcase of plants, people and place.
Presented in partnership with Glen Eira City Council, Botanica brings together locals, families and nature enthusiasts for a relaxed day among one of Victoria’s most majestic historic gardens.
What’s on at Botanica
— Guided tours of Rippon Lea’s heritage gardens and significant trees
— Bird tours highlighting the diverse species that call the estate home
— A large plant sale featuring a wide range of varieties
— Freshly baked Ashburton Country Women’s Association scones to purchase
— Orchid displays by the Southern Suburbs Orchid Society
— Locally crafted goods from Rose Street Market stallholders
— Flower arranging workshop with the Melbourne Flower School
— Nature journaling 1 hour workshop with Nothing Like Nature at 10.30am
— Mindfulness Wander 1 hour workshop with Nothing Like Nature at 12pm
— Mini 20 min sound baths with Soul Sound Massage. Bring a yoga mat & blanket
Plus, much more! Full program details will be released soon. Sign up to our mailing list to receive updates straight to your inbox.
Proceeds go towards supporting the National Trust in conserving and protecting Victoria’s natural, cultural and built heritage.
The Botanica Festival is supported by Glen Eira City Council and Elsternwick Gardens by Milieu.
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Rippon Lea House and Gardens