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21 Epic Flower/Garden Festivals: U.S.A
Explore the best flower/garden festivals across the USA! A guide for travelers seeking spectacular blooms from tulips to cherry blossoms in various states.
Spring is a time where the birds sing, the sun shines and of course the flowers start to bloom! So you better wake up and smell the roses, america has some spectacular Flower & Garden shows, whether your a avid gardener or just curious tourist Americas flower & garden festivals will truly inspire you!
There are a variety of Flower & Garden festivals in the U.S.A from massive Tulip festivals which showcase over 4 million tulips annually to orchid, daffodil, apple blossom, cherry blossom and even a little island filled with gorgeous lilacs!
These are flower & garden festivals can be enjoyed across many U.S states from Washington, to Florida, California, Michigan, Philadelphia, Missouri, Oregon, Virginia and Texas!
21. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival - Washington
When April comes, head to Skagit Valley in the north west of Washington State...you won't be disappointed. Here you will find, a spectrum of magical tulips in a vast array of vibrant colors!
Over one million visitors attend the month long flower festival and you can even try out a variety of activities such as bike tours, art workshops and of course just experiencing the gorgeous flowers!
20. Washington State Apple Blossom Festival
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival is an experience like no other running between April 23rd - May 3rd in Wentachee, Washington State. Over 100,000 people attend annually and the event has grown from just a single day event to an 11 day extravaganza!
Probably the most famous part of the event is the coloful parade which starts at 10:45AM on the first day of the event. Other activities & events at the Apple Blossom Festival include, a golf tournament, arts & crafts fair, a carnival and even on stage live entertainment at Memorial Park.
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival Parade. Source: Destination 360
Fun Fact:
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, was started way back in 1919 & called "Blossom Days". The first event was hosted by the Ladies music Club and involved Baseball, speeches, live singing and maypoles!
19. International Orchid Festival - Florida
Located in Miami warm climate is the International Orchid Festival. A well organised fun packed event which includes live entertainment, tours, lectures and of course thousands of beautiful orchids for sale! Sure to brighten up anyones home!
Kaemattson | Wikimedia Commons
18. National Cherry Blossom Festival - Washington D.C
Located in the great Washington D.C, is the National Cherry Blossom Festival, a spring extravaganza which occurs Late March - Early April. ( March 20th to April 12th 2020).
National cherry-blossom festival -tidal-basin-1 (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
This is one of the United States most popular flower festivals and welcomes spring with a flourishing of pink. From the Marching band & dancers at the Parade to the Pink tie parties and of course the stunning cherry trees.
Related Read: Best Time To Visit Carlsbad Flower Fields
How was the National Cherry Blossom Festival Founded?
Washington D.C, has 3000 Cherry Blossom trees which were gifted back in 1912 by the Mayor of Tokyo, Japan (Yukio Ozaki). The trees were a statement of peace and friendship between the two nations.
The Cherry Blossom trees can be found in three parts of Washington D.C. The Washington Monument Grounds, the East Potomac Park (Hains Point) and West Potomac Grounds.
National cherry-blossom festival Washington-dc. Ron Engle (National Cherry Bottom Festival)
Cherry Blossom Festival Itinerary:
- Opening Weekend: March 21
- Blossom Kite Festival: March 28
- Parade: April 4
- Petalpalooza: April 11
For more on the Blossom Kite Festival check out: 20 Best Kite Festivals in America: State by State Guide.
17. Tulip Time - Michigan
Welcome to Holland, Michigan the home of a staggering 4.5 million Tulips!! This will surely make you want to put your Petal to the Metal and take the drive to Michigan.
Appropriately named Tulip Time, Holland, Michigan celebrates its Dutch roots with a blooming Extravaganza!
tulip time Festival-Holland-Michigan. Source: https://www.hoosier.aaa.com
For Americans, the Netherlands is quite a way to travel but fear not as Michigan transforms itself into it's very own little Holland! With traditional Dutch Dancing (Wooden Clogs included!) , Entertainment and three parades you will feel like you've taking a European trip! Amsterdam has some great places to see tulips. The windmills are amazing also!
Insider Tip:
If your looking for a place to take some epic instagram shots then you to visit the fairytale tulip fields at Tulip time! It will be sure to impress your friends.
Related Read: 50 Most Beautiful Places in the US
16. Philadelphia Flower Show
Philadelphia Flower Show, is a breath taking experience which will be sure to give you butterflies! This is more competitive than most of the other flower shows on this list but great for a tourist as you get to see the best bloomers fight it out for top prizes!
With lush professional flower & garden displays, insect observatories and even a fun butterflies Live exhibits for kids and a "Make & Take" workshop there is plenty for the whole family here.
philadelphia flower show (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
Events/Activities Include:
- Early Morning tours
- Garden tea
- Gardeners Studio
- Butterflies LIVE
- Make & Take workshop
- Designers Studio
- Fine Wine & Good Spirits
- Preview Party Gala
- Flower Show Shop
Overall, the Philadelphia Flower Show is an entertaining event with develops an admiration for the committed gardeners & there flowery babies!
What is the Philadelphia Flower Show theme?
Each year the Philadelphia Flower Show has a theme, for example this year it was called "Flower Power" in which exhibits aimed to show how flowers can convey emotions & transcend languages & culture! For example, by displaying healing, happiness, peace and hope through the creative flower displays.
How did Philadelphia Flower Show begin?
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society was founded in 1827, with the nations first ever flower show being held in 1829.
What to wear for the Philadelphia Flower Show?
The Philadelphia Flower Show is a great excuse to dress up! Women tend to wear floral day dresses whereas men where suit jackets with ties.
Philadelphia flower show is a magical wonderland.
How long is the walk around the Philadelphia Flower Show?
It takes around 3 hours to walk around the entire 33 indoor acres of flower & garden exhibits.
Related Read: Best Time To Visit Sequoia National Park
Where is the Philadelphia Flower Show?
Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107
tel: 215-988-8800
How much is Philadelphia Flower Show?
Tickets range from $17 to $40 depending on date and location of purchase.
Insider Tip:
Purchase online before March 1st for the best price.
15. Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival - Virginia
Shenandoah Valley’s Apple Blossom festival is a great excuse to live life in full bloom this spring. Located in Winchester, Virginia, The Apple Blossom Festival welcomes over 300,000 people annually between late April & Early May to experience the colorful display of the pink & white apple blossom trees blooming.
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Events & Activities:
With a backdrop of gorgeous apple blossom trees, the town bubbles with carnivals, parades, live music and of course an apple pie baking competition! Another fun event is the 80s style dance party in which outfits are encouraged!
14. Bluebonnet Festival - Texas
Nestled in Texas is a quaint town called Burnet, with population of just 6000 people. However, during the 2nd week of april every year this little town ignites & expands with 30,000 visitors arriving for Bluebonnet Festival.
The old town square transforms with a vibrant hub of live music, art and food vendors drawing in the crowds.
Head to town early in the morning for Grand Parade & stay for the award ceremony for most creative float & best equine group, just to name a few.
A sea of Blue glimmers at Blue Bonnet Festival Texas. Source: The amazing parenthoodandpassports.com
Other Activities & Events:
- 5k & 10k run
- Demolition Derby
- Pet Parade
- Kids Events, Potato Sack race.
- Wes West, Gun Slingers show
- Lakes Area Rod & classic Car show
- Mighty Thomas Carnival
Insider Tip:
Head down to the Masonic Lodge, where Burnet Kiwanis will serve ALL YOU CAN EAT PANCAKES!
13. Chinese Culture Days - Missouri
Head down to St Louis, Missouri this spring for a Chinese flower extravaganza. Located at one of the most highly regarded Botanical research facilities(Missouri Botanical Garden) you will get to enjoy a wondrous yet educational festival as you learn about plants & Chinese culture.
Highlights include, Lion & Dragon dancing, death defying Acrobatics, tea parties & even some authentic tai chi!
Fun Fact:
The main parade features a 70 foot dancing dragon!
When is the Flower/Garden Festival?
Last weekend of April 27- 28 at the Missouri Botanical Garden from From 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Event dates may change close to the event so call or see their website for more details.
TeL 314-577-5100 for further details.
How much is the Chinese Culture Days Festivals in Missouri?
The Missouri Chinese Culture Days Festival costs $16 general admission for adults and $5 for children. Members pay less at just $8 for adults with kids going FREE.
12. Dogwood-Azalea Festival - Missouri
The most gorgeous time to visit Charleston, Missouri is during the Dogwood-Azalea Festival. Head along the 6 miles Dogwood-Azalea Trail to experience the generations old dogwood & azalea plants and then head to town for a festival of "History, Hospitality & Tradition".
Dogwood-Azalea Festival - Missouri
When is the Garden festival?
Held Mid April. (April 11-14 2019).
Related Read: Best Time to Visit Redwood National Park
11. Portland Rose Festival - Oregon
Roses are Red, Violets are blue...head to Portland in Spring & there will be something for you! Head to Portland, Oregon between May & June for the fun packed Portland Rose Festival , the Largest Rose Festival in America!
Characterised by three parades over three weekends, its a celebration of Portlands wonderful Roses, its local culture and a community of diversity.
Portland Rose Festival Oregon. Source: https://www.stahancyk.com (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
Over 4,000 roses bloom at this festival, filling Portland with a captivating fragrance which brings to life the waterfront area. There is also a Carnival, live music and a host of other fun activities going on through the festival..
Insider Tip:
Catch the glowing Starlight Parade on at 8:30 p.m.
10. Virginia Garden Week
Held annually over one week is a Historic Virginia Tradition! Virginia Garden Week offers a platform for the most stunning gardens in Virginia to open their doors to visitors who wish to be inspiring & enlightened.
Over 250 homes & historic landmarks, are displayed across a variety of gardens all over Virginia. This festival is the pride of Virginia and a great way to mingle with locals.
Garden Club of VA | Wikimedia commons
Insider Tip:
Check their website, for a list of suggested guides Itineraries. This is definitely helpful as you would struggle to visit all the locations.
What date is the festival?
April 18-25, 2020
9. Lilac Festival - Michigan
Just south of Canadian Border, is the car free Mackinac Island on Lake Huron, Michigan. With a population of just 500 people, this little island swells during the summer time with offer 20,000 people venturing for day trips & of course to experience the captivating 10 day Mackinac Lilac Festival.
Highlights:
Lilac Showcase
- Horse drawn Carriage Tours
- 10k Run
- Wine Tasting
- Cook offs!
- Dog & Pony Show
- Live Music
8. Azalea Festival - North Carolina
Whats up Buttercup? Head down to quaint city of Wilmington, North Carolina for the captivating azalea festival held every spring in early April. Highlights include: Southern Music Concerts, street fair, parade, spectacular fireworks show and a host of activities great for families.
7. Dallas Blooms - Texas
Dallas Blooms? Indeed it does, especially on the shores of White Rock Lake in eastern Dallas. Dallas Blooms is one of the largest flower festivals in the Southwest, set out in nearly 70 acres of gardens you will find over half a million colorful tulips, 7,500 violas and 14,900 pansies, just to name a few.
Having been run for over 30 years, this texan tradition has expanded to 6 weeks, with floral displays rotating each week to keep it looking fresh & creative. This is one of the only U.S flower festivals you can actually visit multiple times during the same year & always see something new & inspiring.
BloomingLooms | Wikimedia Commons
Highlights Include:
- 500,000 Tulips
- Tasting & Cooking Classes
- Live Music & Entertainment
- Children’s Activities
- Wine & Beer Pairings
- Book Signings & Speakers
- Easter Events
"Lifes a Picnic" Garden Art:
Life’s A Picnic is a garden art installation featuring, a massive picnic scene including a gigantic vase of flowers, a larger than life picnic basket, pie and even a massive pesky picnic ant!
Insider Tip:
Be sure to try the parks, tasty warm bread pudding a favourite at the park.
6. Sakura Matsuri/Cherry Blossom Festival - N.Y
Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival is a festival which "Celebrates Japanese Culture through a prism of Cherry Blossom". Held on the last weekend in April, at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden it's a unique cultural event. Highlights include, Japanese Dancing, Music & arts, tea ceremony & even Manga artists.
Wiki
How much does the Flower Festival Cost?
Admission to Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival costs $30 for adults, $25 for students & seniors and kids go FREE.
5. California Poppy Festival
Vibrant Orange Poppys & entertainment all comes to bloom at California Poppy Festival in Lancaster, just north of LA.
California Poppy Festival (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
Highlights Include:
- Vibrant Blooming Poppies! - the State flower.
- Art Exhibits
- Performances
- Farmers Market
- Classic Car Show
4. Biltmore Blooms
Biltmore Blooms in Asheville, North Carolina is an event in May which celebrates the gorgeous gardens of the prestigious Biltmore Estate
Constructed in 1895, this 250 room Chateau is a wonder of architecture & beauty! You can take a self guided tour of the house before venturing out to explore the 8,000 acres of wonderful gardens designed by the highly regarded landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.
Wiki
Insider Tip:
Check out Biltmore’s Bloom Report on their website which gives you a guide to what blooming & helps you to walk through the opulent grounds.
Location:
- Biltmore
- One Lodge Street
- Asheville, NC 28803
- 800-411-3812
Driving?
Its just 2 hours from Knoxville, Tennessee & Charlotte, North Carolina. 3.5hours from Atlanta, Georgia.
3. Daffodil Festival - Nantucket, Massachusetts
Daffodils are often overlooked when compared with tulips or roses but believe me these understated flowers can still pack some beauty!
The annual Daffodil Festival in Nantucket, is the perfect showcase! Set out over the last weekend of April, this festival started as a simple antique car parade back in the 1970s before transforming into a gigantic flower show.
All Yellow at the Daffodil Festival in Nantucket, Massachusetts Source: https://www.nantucketislandresorts.com (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
Highlights:
- Daffodil show by the American Daffodil Association. (Anyone can enter!)
- Music Shows
- Pageants
- Art Shows
- Parades (Antique Cars)
- Tailgate Picnic Parade
- Lectures
- Morris Dancers
- Contests
- Family Picnic
- Children's Parade - Decorated Bikes, strollers & wagons!
Location:
Free shuttle busses to the show from Washington Street start at 1:45 pm and continue all afternoon. The last bus returns from the farm at 5:00 pm.
Admission to the flower show is FREE, but donations are accepted toward the Garden Club’s Daffodil Planting Fund.
2. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
Disneys Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival . A flower powered showcase of your favorite Disney characters brought to life in the form of flower sculptures & Topiary statues from Mickey Mouse to Beauty & the Beast!
Occurring annually in May, Disneys Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is a fun packed family event. For kids they can have their imagination captivated by the wondrous Disney creatures. Whereas, adults can enjoy the live entertainment & learn more about best gardening practices during Disneys "How to Garden" event.
Imaginative Beauty & the Beast Garden Sculptures at Disney Flower & Garden Festival Epcot. (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
How much is the Garden Festival?
Disney World Orlando Park Admission includes the majority of the flower & garden events. This is definitely a good case to beat the summer ques & also experience something different.
1. National Garden Festival - New York
Last Bud not Least...an epic spring celebration in Buffalo, New York. National Garden Festival in New York, is the largest garden festival in America! This 6 week long festival features 15 Garden walks, through the Buffalo Niagara which includes of 1000 private gardens.
Highlights Include:
- 15 Garden Walks & Tours
- Workshops
- Luxury Motorcoach Tours
- Gardening Seminars
- Buffalo Style Garden Art Sale
- Workshops (Gardening & Medicinal Herbs)
- Professional Gardner guided tours.
National Garden Festival - New York,. (Best Flower Festivals/Flower Shows/Garden events in U.S.A)
Insider Tip:
Take the Garden Walk Buffalo tour, the largest free garden walk in the U.S.A!
For more info: Call the Buffalo Niagara Visitor Centre. +1 716-852-0511
Other Festivals in New York:
Head down to Rochester, New York for one of Rochesters most wonderful events, Rochester Lilac Festival. The is the largest FREE flower show in North America and includes over 600 varieties of blooming lilacs and 10 days of parades, concerts & races.
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