Celebrate the beauty and diversity of our region at the Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival this month.

With 70 beautiful gardens and more than 50 artists, the festival will showcase them all from November 15-18.

The event boasts a myriad of delights, from small urban gardens to large rolling country gardens. Many are new to the festival, but old favourites have returned too.

The trail of gardens and art spans from Katikati to Te Puke, with all gardens open to explore on all four days of the festival. In some cases there is the opportunity to see artists working from their own studios.

'Thanks to the gardeners and artists involved, the Garden and Art Festival will be a very special experience for all of our visitors,” says festival director Marc Anderson.

'We are so excited about this year's trail. There is something for everyone, and we know everyone that takes time out to visit the gardens from Katikati to Te Puke will have a brilliant adventure.”

At the BOP Garden and Art Festival Hub - Bloom in the Bay – there'll be more opportunities for the whole family.

There will be food trucks, bars, live music, presentations and workshops, creative demonstrations and art exhibitions, as well as plenty of activities for kids.

'Enjoy a refreshing drink at the Mills Reef and Good George Bar, wander around the concept gardens, or listen to great music,” says Marc. 'Don't miss popping in to Bloom in the Bay.”

Tickets can be purchased at: www.gardenandartfestival.co.nz, ticketek.co.nz on: 0800 842 538 or via Baycourt. Tickets include free entry into the festival hub, Bloom in the Bay.