| On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) was proud to announce the completion of a new weather-protected pavilion as part of its Teaching Garden, made possible through generous donors, including a $74,300 Capital grant, awarded by the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in 2023. Designed to enhance year-round access to outdoor education, the new pavilion allows school groups, families, and community programs to gather, learn, connect and explore nature in all four seasons. At the event, MPP Bowman was present to cut the ribbon on the pavilion, marking the first structure to be built at the Garden in 20 years. “I am thrilled to celebrate the opening of this new outdoor teaching pavilion at the Toronto Botanical Garden,” said Stephanie Bowman, MPP for Don Valley West. “This space will give children, families, and community members a safe and inspiring place to connect with nature all year round. Investments like this are so important, as they support innovative educational programs and foster vibrant, healthy communities. Thank you, TBG, for your dedication to nurturing this beautiful natural environment for our community.” The 657-square-foot pavilion is the newest feature of TBG’s Teaching Garden, where nature-based programming is offered to thousands of children annually. TBG’s Teaching Garden was originally built in 1998 with support from the Garden Club of Toronto. “This new pavilion is a game-changer for our outdoor education programs,” said Stephanie Jutila, CEO of the Toronto Botanical Garden. “Thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s support, we can now welcome more students to the Garden, providing an inclusive year-round space dedicated to hands-on learning in nature.” As a free public green space connected to Toronto’s expansive ravine system, the Toronto Botanical Garden remains committed to providing essential and equitable access to nature. The addition of the Pavilion plays a vital role in advancing that mission, helping to remove barriers to outdoor education and engagement. ### |
