The tropical rain forests of Niagara butterfly conservatory and fall side green houses, or the annual rose garden and flower show, are not the only horticultural even in the Niagara area. The region that is famous for grapes and fine wines, also celebrates other horticultural achievements, such as the tomato.
The event is held at Queenston Height Park, one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. The garden is self contained with amenities that include restrooms, pavilions, snack bars, bandstand, playground, splash pad and tennis courts. When finished enjoying the tomato delights visitors can stroll into the Queenston Heights Restaurant.
The Bigga Tomatafest is a one day even that starts at 11am and ends at 5pm. It was first started in 1999. The contest is designed to entertain visitors and offer a fund raising venue for the United Way of Niagara Falls. Voluntters from eight different organizations come together to make the event a success.
There is something tomato based for everyone from culinary delights or Italian mainstays. The crowning glory of the day is the bigga tomato judging contest. The judging contest is sponsored by the Guinness World Records Museum. Prizes are also awarded for the most unusual and the smallest tomatoes. Children can play in the giant inflatable toys or have their faces painted.
There is no reason to leave the park after the competition. The park provides live entertainment all night long with activities to keep the little ones amused.
The park is less than half a mile from most of the falls view hotels, a comfortable walk through the Niagara gardens and providing a nice walk along the river.
