A Guide to the Best Flower Shows Around the World
Exploring the vibrant world of floriculture, flower shows showcase breathtaking arrangements, innovative designs, and the latest horticultural trends. Here’s a florist’s guide to some of the most prestigious flower shows around the globe.
1. Chelsea Flower Show – London, England
When: Late May
Highlights: Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, the Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most famous flower shows in the world. It features stunning garden displays from top landscapers and innovative designs from amateur gardeners. The show also includes an extensive selection of floral arrangements, exhibits, and plants for sale.
2. Floriade – Canberra, Australia
When: Spring (September to October)
Highlights: This horticultural festival occurs every two years and lasts for a month, showcasing over one million flowers in bloom. The Floriade is known for its vibrant tulip displays and cultural performances, making it a treat for both flower enthusiasts and families.
3. Philadelphia Flower Show – Philadelphia, USA
When: Early March
Highlights: Recognised as the longest-running and largest indoor flower show in the world, the Philadelphia Flower Show features elaborate landscapes and floral arrangements inspired by a different theme each year. It also offers workshops, lectures, and competitions for floral designers.
4. Keukenhof – Lisse, Netherlands
When: Mid-March to mid-May
Highlights: Often referred to as the ‘Garden of Europe’, Keukenhof is open for just eight weeks each spring and showcases millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The park is renowned for its stunning garden designs and themed displays, drawing visitors from all over the globe.
5. World Orchid Conference – Various Locations
When: Every two years
Highlights: The World Orchid Conference is dedicated to the beauty of orchids, featuring exhibits from orchid societies around the world. It includes competitions, lectures, and workshops and is held in different countries, making it a unique experience each time.
6. Toronto Flower & Garden Festival – Toronto, Canada
When: June
Highlights: This festival combines design, gardening, and floral displays. With over 300 exhibitors and a variety of workshops, the festival promotes gardening and sustainability, featuring both indoor and outdoor gardens.
7. Singapore Garden Festival – Singapore
When: Biennial event (even-numbered years)
Highlights: Known for its breathtakingly creative landscapes and floral displays, the Singapore Garden Festival is a celebration of gardening and floral artistry. The event includes competitions for international landscape designers and floral artists, and it showcases a unique blend of cultures and creativity.
8. Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show – Melbourne, Australia
When: Late March
Highlights: This show is Australia's largest horticultural event. It features stunning floral displays, landscape gardens, and a marketplace for gardening products. The event also offers workshops and lectures from leading horticulturists and landscape designers.
9. RHS Malvern Spring Festival – Malvern, England
When: Early May
Highlights: Celebrating the best of gardening, this festival features floral exhibits, garden designs, and plant displays. It also hosts a range of talks, demonstrations, and a market for plant enthusiasts.
10. International Flower & Garden Festival – Epcot, Florida, USA
When: March to June
Highlights: Hosted at Disney’s Epcot Theme Park, this festival features breathtaking floral displays themed around Disney characters and movies. It includes stunning topiaries, seminars, and live entertainment.
These flower shows provide not only a feast for the eyes but also a great opportunity to learn about gardening, floral design, and the latest trends in horticulture. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or simply a lover of flowers, these shows promise to inspire and delight.
