July 17, 2026 | Community
Royal Botanical Gardens Turns 85: A Local’s Guide to RBG This Summer
Royal Botanical Gardens is celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2026. If you have been thinking about visiting RBG this summer, this is the year to do it. Between a new art exhibition, an outdoor concert series, and after dark events, RBG has built its biggest summer lineup yet.
For residents of South Burlington, RBG sits just a short drive away. It makes an easy addition to a summer weekend.
ANCHORBALL: A Curious Art Journey
The centrepiece of RBG’s anniversary season is ANCHORBALL: A Curious Art Journey. It is the first Canadian exhibition by artist Ken Kelleher. The show runs through September 20 and is being described as RBG’s largest exhibition to date. It is a fitting way to mark 85 years. It is one more reason to plan a visit to RBG this summer.
Concerts in the RBG Garden
Outdoor music is a highlight of any visit to RBG this summer. Concerts in the Garden takes place in Hendrie Park. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with performances starting at 8 p.m. Guests bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for an evening under the trees.
This year’s lineup includes:
- Lido Pimienta with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra on July 9
- The Barr Brothers on July 23
- BADBADNOTGOOD on August 20
- Patrick Watson on September 25
A companion series, Music in the Garden, is run by a third party organizer and adds even more dates. These include Dan Mangan and Joel Plaskett on July 2, and the Sam Roberts Band on July 15. The Sheepdogs close out this series on August 13.
RBG After Dark
For guests 19 and older, RBG After Dark turns the gardens into an evening social space. Expect music, food, and seasonal cocktails set against the backdrop of the grounds. It is a different kind of night out, and a nice change of pace from a typical downtown patio.
Save With the Canada Strong Pass
Through September 7, RBG is participating in the Canada Strong Pass. Visitors aged 17 and under receive free daytime garden admission, and those aged 18 to 24 get half off. The pass applies automatically at checkout and covers general garden admission, including access to ANCHORBALL.
Why South Burlington Residents Love RBG
Living near Roseland, Shoreacres, or Elizabeth Gardens means RBG is always close at hand. It is an easy trip for a weekday walk or a full evening out for a concert. For families and downsizers alike, a world class garden minutes from home is a real draw. It is part of what makes South Burlington so desirable.
Frequently Asked Questions
ANCHORBALL: A Curious Art Journey is the featured exhibition marking RBG’s 85th year. It runs through September 20 and is the artist’s first Canadian showing.
Yes. Concerts in the Garden requires pre-purchased tickets, and RBG members receive access to discounted pricing. Chairs are not provided, so bring your own blanket or lawn chair.
The pass gives free admission to visitors 17 and under. Ages 18 to 24 get half price admission, through September 7. It applies automatically to daytime garden admission and does not cover separately ticketed events.
RBG sits along Plains Road, a short drive from most South Burlington neighbourhoods, including Roseland and Shoreacres. It makes for an easy weekend outing without a long commute.
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