We loved our 2025 Forest Garden Festival, which was on 21st June this year, rather than September. It all tied in with the proud launch of our Forest Garden Sculpture that had so many community groups and people involved in the carving. As well as our usual nature activities, mini beast and garden tours and delicious foods to share, we were glad to have Afghani ice cream made on site by local and famous Sam of WataniBox and a couple of exhibitions. There were 200 free and delicious ice creams on offer and long queues! Over 250 people enjoyed the festival.
With thanks all the volunteers involved in the festival (at least 25) and the Sculpture (about 80), and to the Deputy Mayor who unveiled the sculpture on the day. Many thanks to Seyi Rhodes who was our sessional worker leading on the sculpture project which was funded by Colours Redbridge. The sculpture has truly put the Forest Garden on the map! Final changes will be made by the artist Joel of Yes Make by mid August (to make it a bit less climbable!) plus an official sign and QR code.
Here’s a 1-minute video on our Instagram account: do take a look, share it and follow Transition Ilford.
More information will follow regarding the sculpture and all the groups that were involved with it. It is a true community sculpture.
Don’t forget that as well as the Forest Garden being a space to always enjoy when the park is open, you can join the gardening sessions on Friday mornings 10-12pm. Also keep an eye on the extra events we run for families in School holidays. We also have a picnic open to all on Sunday 31st August 2-4pm. This is being organised by our Growing Food Growing Friends project to celebrate the end of the growing season. Do bring any spare produce to share out, or any apples etc from fruit trees.