Howard the Gnome Found a New Home

Howard the Gnome has found a new home.

The Guinness-world-record-holding statue for the World’s Tallest Gnome has retired from his year-round location on Highway #1 in Nanoose Bay. His life will be quieter now; for most of the year, he will be kept in storage. But during the month of October, the gnome will have the pleasure of greeting families as they enter Galey Farms for their Pumpkin Fest.

But Howard didn’t just get a new home—he also got a few upgrades. The new-and-improved version waves and blinks, and his newer, friendly smile welcomes people of all ages to the farm. Thankfully, he retains his World’s Tallest Gnome title; for a time, the future of his height was uncertain, as he stands 16 inches higher than Saanich bylaws generally allow. But the city council allowed an exemption for Howard, providing him permission to stand tall as long his sentry doesn’t last more than 90 days.

Did you see the gnome in his new location? Galey Farms is still open for their Spookier Fun events until October 31 from 6pm to 10pm, so stop by and say “hi” to the farm’s new greeter!