FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the festival start and end?

Saturday, June 7
Festival Hours: 11 am-6 pm
Tasting Garden: 11:30-6 pm (all ages)
Happy Hour: 6-8:30 pm (21+)

Sunday, June 8
Festival Hours: 11 am-6 pm
Tasting Garden: 11:30-6 pm (all ages)

Is there an online version of the festival program available?

Festival-goers can view and download the 2024 digital program by clicking here. Printed versions of the program will also be available the day of the event.

The 2025 digital program will be available at a later date.

What if it's raining?

Like any Pacific Northwest gardener we’re not afraid of mother nature’s watering can. The event will take place rain or shine.

Where is the event located?

The event is located in Point Defiance Park (5400 North Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98405) and centered around the Rose Garden and Pond.

Is there a fee to enter the event?

The majority of the event is free and open to the public.

A ticket is required to participate in these experiences.

Guided garden tours
Guest speaker lectures
Paint & Sip Workshops
Make and Take Workshops
Wine and beer tastings
Happy Hour

The Festival features a ton of FREE experiences including:

The Secret Garden – This award-winning enchanting faerie garden features a whimsical landscape that will inspire and captivate young adventurers and those young at heart.
Rose Garden – Enjoy live music amongst the roses. Free, all ages welcome.
Vendor Village – Shop and eat at over 80 booths located in the Field, Meadow and Lodge vendor areas.
Wonder and Grow Children’s Garden – Just right for the little ones.
Ikebana International Chapter #147 – Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arranging, will be on display.
Tacoma Kitakyushu Sister City Display – Learn about Tacoma’s sister city Kitakyushu through an interactive display.

Are pets allowed at the festival?

Well-behaved and leashed dogs are allowed in most areas of the event. However, we do ask that you keep your furry friends at home due to the large crowds.

Service animals are allowed.

Are there any age restrictions?

The event is open to guests of all ages. These ticketed Experiences are limited to those 21 year of age or older:

Wine & Beer Tasting – June 7 & 8: 11:30-6:00 pm
- The Tasting Garden is open to all ages. Visitors must be 21 and older to purchase tasting packages.
Happy Hour – June 7: 6:00-8:30 pm
- The Tasting Garden is open to ages 21+ only

Is this a "card" only event? Will cash be accepted?

To purchase tickets for any of the experiences at the event a debit or credit card will be required.

For the most part vendors in the vendor village take both cash and card but this may vary from vendor to vendor.

Is there ADA accessible parking on-site?

Yes, there is a limited number of accessible parking spaces available near the heart of the event. To view available parking areas (ADA-included), please click here.

Is the event ADA-accessible?

Attendees should be prepared to traverse gravel paths, grassy areas and slightly uneven terrain. The event foot print is relatively flat and most areas are accessible via gravel paths.

The guest speaker lectures will be held on the first floor of the Pagoda, which is 100% ADA accessible.

What ADA amenities will be available at the event?

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Quiet Area & Sensory Garden

Hours: Saturday and Sunday: 11 am-3 pm

Location: The quiet area and sensory garden are located north of the pond.

A tent will be designated as a quiet space for people who would like to step away to a quieter environment before rejoining the fun. The space will be furnished with chairs, tables and small cushions.

Sensory tools such as headphones and earplugs will be available to check out along with some quiet hands on activities for calming the senses. There will be a small “sensory garden” near the tent with different plants to explore through touch and smell.

All ages are welcome. Children must remain with an adult, drop off care is not provided.

How can I get involved?

The Point Defiance Flower and Garden Festival couldn’t take place with out the help of our dedicated volunteers. Check out the “Get Involved” page for more information on volunteering at the event.