Philadelphia Flower Show- What to Expect

After two years of being hosted outside in south Philadelphia's FDR Park due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society is finally bringing the Philadelphia Flower Show (PFS) back inside to its traditional city-center home -the Philadelphia Convention Center – where it will be held on March 4th through 12th of 2023. Tickets are now on sale and gardeners and flower enthusiasts can expect to enjoy a variety of floral displays and breathtaking designs, as well as educational programming, shopping, exhibit booths and workshops. It's sure to be a stunning celebration of nature's beauty that can't be missed!

City officials, press and long time show sponsors, such as Subaru and Bank of America, gathered to unveil the theme, “The Garden Electric” and details of the truly immersive experience. Flower show attendees are in for a unique experience at this year's indoor show! The newly designed promenade promises to wind guests through the entire exhibition, creating an immersive journey unlike any other. And that's not all – get ready for our largest displays yet and an impressive entrance garden sure to leave you in awe. Seth Pearsoll, the show’s creative director said it best: “It will be more of a guided adventure than ever before!”

“The Garden Electric” promises to bring an element of surprise and sense of wonder to this year's show and erupt thoughts of springtime. This annual event is the largest and longest-running event of its kind in the United States and truly marks the beginning of spring for the area. While many enjoyed the “full bloom” of the outside show last year, we recognize that center city is its home. The many acres of the Pennsylvania Convention center definitely allows for larger displays and an will allow the floral designs to feature interesting design elements since the weather will not be a factor.

That spark of joy that comes while giving or receiving flowers — this is the moment captured by “The Garden Electric.” From the dazzling array of colors, unique shapes and textures, and rich fragrances of gorgeous floral displays and gardens come feelings of excitement and celebration. This year’s theme brings the electrifying presence of today’s most dynamic designers of floral arrangements, lush gardens, and landscapes to visitors from around the world. 

The show promises an experience that blends the best of outdoor horticulture with indoor comfort. Guests can enjoy all the beauty and wonder of nature without worrying about inclement weather or parking, leaving them free to be fully immersed in their environment. According to President Matt Rader, this event is more than just a show; it’s an opportunity for visitors to take something away from their time there: “We want you leave inspired by both nature and your community– try planting some flowers or vegetables at home!” It truly will be a special occasion like no other!

Enjoy shopping, educational programming and more The Philadelphia Flower Show isn't just about looking at lovely flowers and taking in the beauty of nature. As always, there will be plenty of exciting activities going on throughout the show to enjoy. Whether it's shopping for unique plants, attending workshops or seminars on gardening topics, or simply kicking back and listening to some live music or entertainment – the Philadelphia Flower Show has something for everyone. So come explore and experience this unique flower extravaganza with your friends and family!

Must See Activities at the Flower Show

Artisan Row
March 3 – 12, 2023, Show open – close
Cost: $20 – $25 per craft
The Flower Show’s re-imagined experiential hub where guests can create an elevated floral or gardening-inspired craft, working side-by-side with artisans is back! Now even larger due to popular demand, Artisan Row will feature 7 different crafts including fresh floral crowns, Flower Show candles, floral handbags, floral bouquets, terrarium making, dried flower bud vases, and botanical jewelry.

Butterflies Live!
March 3 – 12, 2023, Show open – close
Cost: $5 per person
Experience exotic butterfly species never before seen in the color palette of The Garden Electric! Spend time with these beautiful pollinators, surrounded by flowering plants in a serene setting that allows hundreds of butterflies to spread their wings!

Potting Parties with Tu Bloom and Subaru of America
March 3 – 12, 2023, hours vary
Cost: $10
Learn the tricks of the trade at these energetic container gardening workshops hosted by designer Tu Bloom (@tubloom) and sponsored by Subaru of America (@subaru_usa). Take home your very own creation for lasting floral beauty!

Design & Dine: Sponsored by Smithers-Oasis
March 4 – 12, 2023, 11am – 12:30pm and 1:30pm – 3pm 
Cost: $40
Perfect for those seeking a social, hands-on experience, guests will create their own Garden Electric-inspired floral arrangement, all while enjoying a light meal. For every two tickets purchased, a meal will be donated to those in need through PHS’s catering partner HUNGRY, offering the ability to not only have fun, but do good.

Kids Cocoon
March 4 – 12, 2023, Show open – close
Cost: FREE with Flower Show admission 
A play area for kids to explore and learn, while giving caretakers the ability to enjoy a pause from a day of discovery. Featuring discovery tables, artistic programs, hands-on education, and more, this space will be open daily and is free to enjoy with a Flower Show ticket purchase.

Musical Entertainment
March 4 – 12, 2023, Show open – close
A guest-favorite experience from the 2022 Show, our mini music festival at the Flower Show will be held inside. Featuring daily performances from a roster of notable East Coast bands, guests will be able to relax and enjoy the sounds of the Flower Show. Curated by the popular brass band SNACKTIME, you will be sure to enjoy sweet sounds as yet another way to welcome spring!

Early Morning Tours
March 5 – 12, 8am – 10am
Cost: $110 per person
Led by expert tour guides, these 2-hour tours offer guests the opportunity to learn more about the Flower Show’s world-renowned garden designers and landscape architects, plus get up close to displays, the PHS Hamilton Horticourt, and competitive classes before the Show opens for general admission hours.

Guided Photography Tours
March 6 – 10, 8am – 10am
Cost: $130
Led by experienced photographers, this guided tour experience offers both novice and professional shutterbugs the opportunity to capture the beauty of The Flower Show ahead of general admission hours.

Fido Friday
March 10, 2023, 5 – 7pm 
Cost: FREE with Flower Show admission
The dogs are back after a 2-year hiatus! This event invites guests and their four-legged pals to experience The Garden Electric together, featuring fur-friendly activations.

Flowers After Hours: Garden Noir
March 11, 2023, 8:30 – 11:30pm 
Cost: $75 per person
Join us for a night of mystery and intrigue within The Garden Electric! At our annual Flower Show after-hours dance party, we will turn down the lights and turn up the vibes with this year’s theme, Garden Noir. Dress in your all-black best paired with a masquerade-style mask and dance the night away among the gardens. The evening will feature live music, cabaret entertainment, a variety of food and beverage tastings, and giveaways from a wide range of party partners. Guests can explore all the Flower Show floral, garden, and landscape designs during the event. Must be 21+ with ID to attend.

Family Frolic 
March 12, 2023, 10am – 3pm
Cost: FREE with Flower Show admission
This special day at the Flower Show is dedicated to those with little ones. Packed with activities and programming, this event takes place on the last Sunday of the Flower Show (Sunday, March 12). Activities include face painting, giveaways, mascot visits and more.  Free for all to enjoy with a Flower Show ticket purchase

Tickets

Mark your calendars and plan to attend! Tickets are already on sale, so don’t wait much longer if you want to join in on the fun. Whether you’re looking for an elegant night out or a family fun day, this show has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this beloved event filled with attractive horticulture and wonderful gardens – Philadelphia Flower Show 2023 is sure to leave you breathless!