Government House Open Day in conjunction with Nature Festival

Government House Adelaide will be open from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, 12 October 2025, offering visitors the chance to explore the gardens, engage with natural features, and learn about ongoing conservation and sustainability efforts.

Highlights include the Governor’s Rose Garden, featuring a collection of roses propagated over the past 35 State Governors; a descendant of the Lone Pine from Gallipoli; and a remarkable 150-year-old Moreton Bay Fig.

The event will also offer free self-guided tours of Government House Adelaide - the oldest Government House in Australia - with guides sharing insights into its historical significance and its role as the official residence of South Australia’s Governors. Additionally, guides from the Friends of the Botanic Gardens will lead tours of the grounds, discussing the garden’s evolution, the symbolism behind plantings, and ongoing preservation efforts.

In conjunction with the Nature Festival, the Open Day will include interactive activities such as making nature maps, opportunities to engage with gardening experts, and garden art creation. Visitors can also enjoy live music, children’s quizzes, and food and drink vendors.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the Therapeutic Horticulture Australia (THA) marquee - a tranquil space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with oneself, others, and nature. THA will offer a range of free activities focusing on mindfulness in nature, including contributing to a wreath, Tai Chi sessions, posy making, and exploring natural textures through seed pods, leaves, and ephemeral art. These activities are suitable for all ages and free to participate. This program is presented in partnership with ECH, an SA-based provider of retirement living and in-home care services supporting confident and independent living.

As in previous years, Trees For Life will offer a free native plant for visitors to take home.

Admission to the Open Day and all activities is free. All are welcome, and the event is suitable for all ages. Bookings are not required.

Activity times will be available early October.

For more information, please visit governor.sa.gov.au or contact Government House on (08) 8203 9800.

Image Courtesy of Government House

Image Courtesy of ECH: Melanie Sanders