I have been going to the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show for as long as I can remember (caveat: I do not like the heat and did not attend the FDR park covid years). I was fortunate to attend the preview of this year’s show last Friday and as usual it was magical. Each year I do not think they will be able to top the designs of the previous year, yet each year they do so. The theme this year is “United by Flowers.” The theme celebrates the colorful community that comes together to share in their love of gardening, flowers, and plants, and the impact they make on our lives all year round. “This year’s theme, ’United by Flowers,’ focuses on coming together and we are excited to be showing all the ways that we build community with one another. From exhibits that show off the celebratory spaces that unite us to offering a series of experiences that are best when done together, there is something for every visitor to share with their loved ones at the Flower Show,” stated PHS’s Creative Director and Vice President of the Flower Show, Seth Pearsoll.
From the moment you walk in, you encounter a grand entrance display complete with pink baby’s breath clouds, ponds, and a huge map of the United States in flowers and you are mesmerized. If you have not been to the show before, the right side of the space is all the grand displays. As you move towards the middle, you will encounter some of the more specialized plant competitions and floral displays, the PHS official store and some eateries. On the left side of the show are all the incredible curated vendors from all over the country. Sure, they sell all things flower, plant and gardening related. They also offer everything from jewelry to balsamic vinegar to children’s floral dresses. There is truly something for everyone. Don’t miss the florists who sell fresh flowers there as well. I like to take a bit of the show with me and purchase some each year. There is even an “official” flower show bouquet.
Outside the main hall, you will encounter many more exciting elements of the show. Some highlights include an interactive butterfly exhibit and a make and take build your own bouquet stand. There are also artisanal crafts and additional family activities.
Here are a few pro tips:
1. If crowds are not your thing, try to go during the day on a weekday. The earlier the better.
2. The regional rails add trains during the week of the show. Take public transportation if possible. The lots near the show fill up quickly.
3. There is a coat check, so you do not have to lug a coat or bags around if you don’t want to.
4. After the show, you can easily visit Reading Terminal Market directly across from the Convention Center and take some goodies home with you for dinner or later.
5. Wear very comfortable shoes. There is a lot of standing and walking.
Now in its 195th year, the award-winning PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is a world-renowned gardening event and PHS’s main fundraiser to support its impactful greening work that advances health and well-being in the region. The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show will run March 2-10 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Tickets are on sale now at tickets.phsonline.org, with flexible ticket options starting at $29.99.
FLOWER SHOW EXPERIENCES
ACTIVITIES
NEW! Know to Grow Educational Sessions
New this year, the Philadelphia Flower Show will host a newly re-imagined gardening speaker series on various topics up to 4 times a day. Presentation topics include garden design, vegetable gardening, native plants, container gardening, shade gardening, rock gardening, houseplants, and information on PHS programs. Whether you are “plant-curious” or a professional, learn something new and walk away with practical takeaways from acclaimed experts! Free with admission.
Artisan Row
Artisan Row is the Flower Show’s experiential hub where guests can create an elevated floral or gardening-inspired craft working side-by-side with artisans. Now even larger due to popular demand, Artisan Row will feature 7 artisans creating fresh floral crowns, Flower Show candles, floral handbags, floral bouquets, terrarium making, dried flower bud vases, and botanical jewelry. Purchase required.
Butterflies Live!
Experience exotic butterfly species never seen before in the vibrant color palette of “United by Flowers!” Spend time with these beautiful pollinators while enjoying a serene environment surrounded by flowering plants. This is an all-ages activity, perfect for both kids and kids at heart! Purchase required.
Kids Cocoon
Play, learn, and have fun in our kid-centric play space, Kids Cocoon! Here, the Show’s youngest guests can plant a seedling, read a story, and enjoy activities from local horticulturally focused partners, with hourly programming from 10am-7pm every day of the Flower Show, except Sunday March 10. Free with admission. New this year, the Kids Cocoon and PHS Shop will be selling a special Flower Show coloring book designed by local artists, so kids can enjoy page after page of colorful flowers long after their visit to the Show! All proceeds will benefit PHS’s year-round greening programs. Purchase required.
Bloom Bar
Back by popular demand, Bloom Bar provides a walk-up experience offering guests the opportunity to purchase pre-assembled, fresh floral crowns in the heart of the Show floor. These gorgeous, wearable pieces of floral art offer a beautiful way for guests to grab, go, and wear -- showing off their floral best.
New this year, a pop-up satellite Bloom Bar Cart will roam the Show floor for on-the-go flower crown purchases. Purchase required.
Potting Parties
Learn the tricks of the trade at these energetic container gardening workshops hosted by designer Tu Bloom, The Official Botanical Artist of the Grammy® Awards. These parties are engaging for all, and end with you taking home your very own creation forlasting floral beauty. Purchase required.
EVENTS THIS WEEK
Fido Friday
Friday, March 8 -- The dogs will be back at the Flower Show this year! This event invites guests and their four-legged pals to experience “United by Flowers” together, featuring fur-friendly activations. Free with admission from 5:00pm - 8:00pm.
Flowers After Hours
Saturday, March 9 -- Our acclaimed after-hours dance party is back with a new theme – Shimmer and Shine! This sophisticated 21+ soirée will groove to the beats of a stellar lineup featuring all-female DJs from Philadelphia, set amidst the mesmerizing floral displays as the backdrop, this night promises an experience where the vibrant energy of the city converges with the allure of nature's beauty. Guests are invited to dress in glamourous shades of white and nude tones with glimmering fabrics, and sparkling accessories. Whether guests come adorned in sequins or glittering jackets, gowns, or hats, the dance floor will become a tapestry of movement and celebration. The hours are 8:30pm – 11:30pm. ID required for admission. Purchase Required.
ABOUT PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), an internationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 1827, uses horticulture to advance the health and well-being of the Greater Philadelphia region. PHS programs create healthier living environments, increase access to fresh food, expand access to jobs and economic opportunity, and strengthen deeper social connections between people. PHS’s work spans 250 neighborhoods; an expansive network of public gardens and landscapes; year-round learning experiences; and the nation’s signature gardening event, the Philadelphia Flower Show. PHS provides everyone with opportunities to garden for the greater good as a participant, member, donor, or volunteer.
ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW
The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is the nation's largest, and the world’s longest- running horticultural event and features stunning displays by some of the world’s premier floral and landscape designers. Started in 1829 by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Show introduces diverse and sustainable plant varieties and garden and design concepts. In addition to acres of garden displays, the Flower Show hosts world-renowned competitions in horticulture and artistic floral arranging, gardening presentations and demonstrations, and special events.
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