The Legislative Precinct refers to both the immediate grounds of the Parliament Buildings as well as the surrounding lands and buildings. The area contained within the Legislative Precinct includes historical markers, symbolic fountains, and large open lawns.
Architect Francis M. Rattenbury had hoped that the many trees surrounding the Parliament Buildings he designed would remain once the buildings were finally completed. However, most trees were fallen by the time that construction was finished in 1897. Without any significant foliage growing in the area since then, the lawns of the Parliament Buildings have become the most important gathering place in the province for political and social demonstrations on every imaginable issue. Although there are regulations against putting up tents or camping on the lawns, peaceful protests take place with few restrictions.
The lawns are also a popular gathering place for celebrations and special occasions. Events like the Canada Day celebrations and the Victoria Symphony Splash attract huge audiences to the lawns of the Parliament Buildings each year.
For additional information on the public use of grounds within the Legislative Precinct, visit the Legislative Assembly website.
The gardens throughout the Legislative Precinct have always been popular. Every year, over 25,000 flowers are planted on the grounds; 11,000 in the spring and 14,000 in the fall. A large greenhouse and several cold frame gardens once stood next to the Armouries Drill Hall to supply these plants.
