Plan now to attend the annual Philadelphia Flower Show from February 28 through March 8, 2026. Although the Pennsylvania Convention Center is only a few hours away, there are several coach bus trips departing from the DC metro area, see below. This year the theme is “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening.” This family-friendly show features beautiful breathtaking floral arrangements, indoor gardens, workshops, and many vendors for great shopping. Hosted by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), an internationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 1827, the Flower Show started 2 years in 1829 and is now the nation’s largest and longest running horticultural event. Each year features a different theme. In celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, “Rooted: Origins of American Gardening” honors the people, places, and traditions that have shaped gardening in our country.
What is new this year is a reimagined layout that helps you navigate the show through five core experiences: See, Shop, Make, Learn, and Play.
For example: “See” Chadwick and Sons Orchids’ exhibit of the 19 consecutive First Ladies who have had orchids named in their honor; inspiring floral displays from emerging florists; award winning PHS Gold Medal Plants in real garden settings; the Flower Show’s competitive classes that celebrate the creativity and skill of gardeners and designers across a range of horticulture and design categories; the W.B. Saul High School of Agricultural Sciences’ exhibit honoring Pennsylvania’s Lenni Lenape people and indigenous roots; displays from four world-renowned designers interpreting the roots, traditions, and resilience of American gardening; and finally the Philadelphia Society of Botanical Illustrators’ exhibit of botanical illustrations of native plants and fungi.
“Shop” is shopping at the Flower Show Marketplace with vendors selling live plants, fresh flowers, garden tools, jewelry, and unique gifts.
“Make” is making crafts at Artisan Row such as tea blends, floral hats and tote bags, and pressed flower framed art décor.
“Learn” is to learning to make floral arrangements you can take home with Tu Bloom, Official Botanical Artist of the Grammy ® Awards. Plus, attend the Know to Grow educational sessions where you can learn from experts about gardening topics such as native plants, orchids, and blooming bulbs.
And “Play” is for both children and adults. Young folk can play with Legos or plant seeds at Kids Cocoon, a dedicated safe space for children. In the evening, adults can dress up in fantasy inspired attire sipping themed cocktails when Flowers after Hours transforms the Flower Show in an after dark celebration.
There is plenty to see and do for all ages. Don’t forget the camera/smartphone, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a bag or two to bring your goodies home.
The following are local places where you ride a coach bus to attend the Flower Show in one day.
Green Spring Gardens in Virginia: Monday, March 2, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm or Wednesday, March 4, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, fee and must register.
Smithsonian Associates in DC: Friday March 6, 9:00 am to 8:30 pm, fee and must register.
Homestead Gardens in MD: Tuesday, March 3, 8:30 to 8:00 pm, fee and must register.
Photos in this article are courtesy of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and are from last year’s show. Shout out to fellow GardenComm member Becca Mathias who took these particular photos — she is a great photographer!
