What ages is the workshop suitable for?

The workshop is open to children aged 3 and older, with each child required to be accompanied by an adult.

Do adults need to purchase tickets if not making a terrarium?

No, adults who are only accompanying children do not need a ticket unless they also want to make a terrarium.

Is parking available on-site?

Parking is limited at Parkwood Estate; carpooling is recommended, and additional parking can be found in nearby neighborhoods or the Lakeridge Health parking lots.

What materials are provided?

All necessary materials including containers, Venus flytraps, soil, moss, stones, and accessories are provided during the workshop.

Are there any accessibility concerns?

There are a few steps down into the Orchid house area from the potting shed, so some mobility considerations are advised.

Can adults participate in the terrarium building?

Yes, adults can participate but must purchase a ticket if they want to make their own terrarium.

Create Spooky Halloween Terrariums at Parkwood Estate’s Historic Greenhouse | Events

Located in Oshawa, Ontario, Parkwood Estate’s Historic Greenhouse offers a unique autumn experience perfect for families looking to combine creativity and the outdoors. This Kid’s Scary Terrarium Workshop invites young adventurers aged three and up to dive into the eerie charm of Halloween by crafting their own mini terrarium worlds inside one of the region’s most enchanting botanical spaces. Designed as an interactive two-hour workshop, it provides a hands-on chance for children to connect with nature through a seasonally inspired project, all set within the shelter of the estate’s famed greenhouse, rich with local history dating back to the early 20th century.

The workshop’s venue is a distinctive part of Oshawa’s outdoor recreation area, where history and horticulture converge. Participants work with materials such as Venus flytraps, soil, moss, stones, and spooky seasonal accessories to design personalized terrariums that capture the magic of Halloween. The greenhouse environment itself is a living exhibit of plant life, offering a unique atmosphere that perfectly complements the creativity on display. Parents and kids alike feel the thrill of transforming natural elements into imaginative, living decorations.

Parkwood Estate is well-regarded for preserving the cultural heritage of the site, originally the home of R.S. McLaughlin, founder of General Motors Canada. The estate’s expansive grounds and historic features provide an appealing backdrop for nature-themed workshops like this one. It’s a standout destination in the area, not just for its horticultural significance, but as a community gathering spot that encourages environmental appreciation and hands-on learning.

What sets this event apart is the blend of seasonal celebration, education, and outdoor enjoyment. Families enjoy quality bonding time while engaging with natural materials, fostering a deeper appreciation for plants and environmental creativity. The workshop also offers practical tips like wearing gloves for handling moss and soil, and encourages eco-friendly practices such as carpooling due to limited parking.

With small group sizes (max 10 participants) and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, this workshop is ideal for local families or visitors staying in Oshawa, seeking a memorable, nature-based Halloween activity. The workshop runs for two hours on the morning of October 25, providing ample time to craft and absorb the autumn ambiance. Each child leaves with a custom terrarium, a living souvenir that keeps a little piece of the season alive all year round.

Whether you’re visiting from nearby Toronto or exploring Ontario’s outdoor spaces, Parkwood Estate’s Kid’s Scary Terrarium Workshop is a distinctive opportunity to create, learn, and celebrate the season surrounded by history and greenery.