If you have ever visited the Philadelphia Flower Show, you know how difficult it is to choose a favorite exhibit. The large flower displays are dramatic and riveting. The miniatures, depicting front porches and gardens, draw you into a world of a different scale. Individual plants, grown by amateur gardeners who compete for top honors, make you wonder whether your houseplants could ever compare if you just gave them a little more love and attention.
One walks through the flower show with a sense of anticipation. What will be around the next corner? What flowers will be paired with which shrubs or trees? Are those plants truly hanging from the ceiling? How many exhibits will display plants native to the Piedmont Region?
Shown here is a drawing of Susan Cohan Gardens, which will be on exhibit at the flower show.
If you have gone to more than one show, you realize that each one is unique, which is why I can’t resist going to as many as possible.
If these are not enough reasons to plan a trip this spring, the Philadelphia Horticultural Society (PHS) has provided a sneak peek of the 2025 flower show Gardens of Tomorrow. Here are 10 must see events and activities according to the PHS. The show runs from March 1 to 9 at the Philadelphia Convention Center.
From breathtaking floral displays to interactive experiences, the show promises something for everyone including families, gardening enthusiasts and first-time visitors. All events listed below are free for those who have tickets to the show unless otherwise noted.
A drawing shows an exhibit that will be on display at the 2025 show. It was created by Treeline Designz x Kazuyuki Ishihara.
Discover the Future of Floral Design – The “Future Flowers” Design Challenge welcomes four world-renowned, international floral artists: Lily Beelen, Mike Boerma, Berit Laursen, and Ahti Lyra. They debut their interpretations of future flowers and design.
“Tomorrow’s Eden,” A Visionary Two-Tiered Garden – Renowned Japanese designer Kazuyuki Ishihara joins West Coast-based Iftikhar Ahmed of Treeline Designz unveil a first of its kind, two-tiered garden. Inspired by nature’s ability to adapt amid climate challenges, this exhibit highlights how landscapes can uplift and sustain one another.
Step Into a Multi-media Floral Experience – PLANTPOP and Ekodome present a time-lapse flower display inside the towering 22-foot Terra Ekodome, where blooms unfold across massive screens. Nearby, the 16-foot Luna Ekodome reimagines the greenhouse as a view-finder experience, blending architecture and nature.
Learn something new with a Know-to-Grow session, back for its second year. Whether you are a professional grower or simply interested in plants, the Know to Grow speaker series offers everyone an opportunity to learn more about gardening. These sessions cover topics ranging from the future of gardening to climate change. New to this year’s sessions are gardening experts curated by the Great Grow Along.
An orchid blooms profusely at the 2024 Philadelphia Flower Show.Photo by Morgan Horell, courtesy of PHS.
Fun for the Whole Family — this year’s Kids Cocoon offers a playful space for young gardeners to plant seedlings, enjoy story time and participate in activities and programs. In partnership with The Franklin Institute (TFI), children can enjoy a flower show-themed version of TFI’s Creation Station and create floral-inspired works using LEGO® bricks. Plus, don’t miss Family Frolic on March 2, a special day packed with kid-friendly fun and interactive experiences!
Experience a Galactic Adventure with Flowers After Hours – Experience a campy, cosmic evening at the Flower Show after-hours dance party, OUT OF THIS WORLD! Blending 80s and 90s pop culture with futuristic aesthetics, guests dance the night away surrounded by floral displays. Enjoy a DJ lineup curated by SNACKTIME, featuring Muhammad Carr, Lady B, DJ Touchtone, and Val Fleury, cocktails and a space fashion show. This 21+ event offers an unforgettable evening of music, fun and floral beauty. Flowers After Hours will be held on March 8, 8:30-11:30 pm. Purchase required.
Discover the Ultimate Shopping Experience – Shop, browse and be inspired by floral and garden treasures. With 200 vendors offering an array of plants, garden décor and unique gifts, there is something for everyone in the Marketplace. Then explore the Makers Market, where handcrafted jewelry, home accents and botanical-inspired art will be showcased.
Find Serenity with Blossom & Breathe – Step into Blossom & Breathe, a mini wellness retreat. In collaboration with Honey Buz Natural Skincare and Noel Davis of Paris Fit, this unique experience blends the calming power of flowers with wellness activities such as a yoga session led by Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader Airelle Hunt. Blossom and Breathe will be held on March 7, from 5:00-8:00 pm. Free with a flower show ticket, an additional purchase is required to participate in a yoga session.
Witness Award-Winning Floral Artistry at the Design Gallery – A showcase of innovation and craftsmanship, the Design Gallery features floral arrangements, pressed plant displays, miniature dioramas, botanical photography, and more will compete for top honors.
Create Alongside Skilled Artisans – Newly expanded because of popular demand, Artisan Row invites attendees to unleash their creativity, crafting floral-inspired keepsakes alongside local artisans. Guests can design bouquets, candles, jewelry, terrariums, and more creating a one-of-a-kind memento. Purchase required.
The Philadelphia Flower Show celebrates its 196th year next month. Tickets are on sale at tickets.phsonline.org. For information about the show, visit phsonline.org/the-flower-show.
