With the first day of Spring right around the corner, it’s time to look towards the nation’s biggest horticultural event of the year. The Philadelphia Flower Show returns, June 5th – 13th, to the City of Brotherly Love with one of its biggest changes in recent years. As they say, the show must go on, and the Philadelphia Horticultural Society takes steps to ensure the event doesn’t skip a beat. For the first time ever, the Philadelphia Flower Show will take place outside at the iconic Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park, FDR Park, in South Philadelphia. With this change, the PHS takes measures to ensure the event follows the city’s COVID-19 health and safety guidelines.
Like the previous shows, this year follows a theme rooted in creativity and cultural influence. The theme, “HABITAT: Nature’s Masterpiece,” helps bring visitors of the show into a vibrant and colorful world as seen in a kaleidoscopic manner. Across 15 acres, awe-inspiring displays of plants, immerse experiences, and art will take center stage like never before. The show has been carefully planned out with the help of community leaders to make things possible.
“We are thrilled to be able to celebrate the outdoors and offer joy and beauty after a year that has been marked by so many challenges. This experience is a wonderful example of the enduring and combined power of green space, plants, and gardeners to create impact and inspiration,” said Sam Lemheney, PHS Chief of Shows & Events.
The new venue allows PHS to reimagine the way visitors experience everything nature has to offer. While typically held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the breathtaking views and landscape FDR Park allow for an added touch. The move to June also brings in the balance between the setting Spring and blooming Summer colors as opposed to the annual March date from previous years. With FDR Park residing in the area of the Philadelphia Sports Complex, it provides great access to major roads and public transportation.
As for visitors of the event, they will be treated to three very different “Districts” that showcase the wonders of the show and its multitalented horticulturalists. Attendees will move between the Plant District, Garden District, and Design District.
The Plant District will attract all kinds of plant lovers with its widely diverse plants on display. Overseen by various gardeners, visitors will be able to brush up on their knowledge of the plants seen around them. As attendees move through the Garden District, they will be greeted by experts well versed in the horticultural field to give pointers and tips in gardening. The Garden District will also feature a butterfly arena, a lounge for PHS Members, shops, and more to engage the community.
The largest area of the event is the Design District featuring iconic staples at the Philadelphia Flower Show. On display will be florals and otherworldly landscape designs geared towards the show’s overall theme. Designers from all over the world will be on hand to present and display their work. In addition to places to eat, lounge, and shop, the district will have an outstanding view overlooking the whole grand lawn of FDR Park.
PHS has introduced timed sessions to help with the flow of the event and decrease health risks during a trying time in the country. As of March 17th, tickets are still available to book time slots. Visitors attending the Philadelphia Flower Show are encouraged to book their date and time at purchase. As tickets sell fast, early purchase is highly recommended.