Create Spooky Halloween Terrariums at Parkwood Estate’s Historic Greenhouse

Read the full experience

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.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for children age 3 and up; physical exertion is minimal, focused mainly on fine motor skills during crafting.

Frequently asked questions

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.

Local insights

Wildlife

Local songbirds such as warblers and chickadees
Small pollinators including native bees around the greenhouse plants

History

Parkwood Estate was built in the early 1900s and served as the home of R.S. McLaughlin, a major figure in Canadian automotive history.

Conservation

The estate promotes sustainable gardening practices and encourages visitors to respect plant life and minimize waste during workshops.

About Parkwood National Historic Site

Parkwood National Historic Site in Oshawa, Ontario preserves a rich cultural setting and offers a broad calendar of public programming that blends historic interpretation with hands-on experiences. The site presents guided tours and interpreted performances such as Servants' Tours and themed walks, alongside practical workshops in crafts, food, and floral design. Programming includes seasonal markets like Retro Fest Vendor Market and Winter Fest Vendor Market, community-focused events such as Parkwood Christmas Tours and The Way Home Film Location Bus Tour, and creative workshops covering stained glass, candle making, holiday wreaths, pottery, perfume making, and culinary demonstrations. Several workshops are taught by named instructors or partners noted in event listings — for example, stained glass sessions led by Emilie Shipman-Wight and Meghan Murphy and perfume-making presented by Dakaari Fragrance House. Parkwood also stages horticultural programs in its greenhouses, including floral arrangement workshops and guided garden tours led by site staff. Parkwood’s event listings show a mix of ticketed and free events and seasonal sell-outs, reflecting active community engagement. The site's public programs combine interpretive tours with hands-on learning opportunities across craft, food, horticulture, and holiday-themed experiences. All descriptions and event listings are presented in third person and reflect the programming and partnerships publicly listed for Parkwood National Historic Site.

Base locationOshawa, Ontario

Tours offered58+

Specialtyland-adventures

Adventure tips

Bring gloves for handling soil and mossProtect your hands while working with natural materials like soil and moss to stay comfortable throughout the workshop.

Arrive 10 minutes early to check inPlan to arrive at the potting shed at least 10 minutes before the start time to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Bring a container to carry your terrarium homeBoxes or buckets help protect your new creation during transit, preventing damage to your delicate plants and décor.

Carpool if possible due to limited parkingReduce hassle and support local sustainability by sharing rides; additional parking is available nearby if the lot fills up.

Recommended gear

Gloves: Ideal for handling soil and moss comfortably during terrarium building.
Container for transport: Protects your terrarium when taking it home from the workshop.
Comfortable clothing: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty as you’ll be working with soil and plants.
Camera or smartphone: Capture memories of your spooky terrarium creation and the historic greenhouse setting.