By Molly Given

From towering woodland canopies to orchid tributes inspired by First Ladies, the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show transforms the Pennsylvania Convention Center into a living celebration of American gardening— and here’s what you can’t miss.

‘The Forest Floor’

The show opens with a fully immersive woodland installation that sets the tone for 2026’s theme, ‘Rooted: Origins of American Gardening’. Dubbed ‘The Forest Floor’, this year’s entrance display features native plantings, towering canopy elements, and textural groundcover. It’s meant to be an immersive gateway to the rest of the show, focusing on how American gardening traditions originated and continue to evolve.

American Landscape Showcase

Created in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, this particular feature of the Show boasts work from four designers and explores what “American gardening” really means. Expect distinct interpretations — from naturalistic native plant palettes to more formal, architectural styles — all presented at a dramatic scale. It’s a rare chance to see big-name designers experiment freely while responding to a shared theme.

‘Rooted in Time’ & ‘Before 250’

These companion exhibits take a deeper look at Indigenous horticultural knowledge and Pennsylvania’s Lenni Lenape history. Visitors will see curated plant selections and interpretive design firsthand, with a highlight on how land stewardship long predates modern landscaping trends. It’s described as thoughtful, visually compelling, and one of the more reflective spaces on the Show floor.

‘First Ladies and Their Orchids’

This one is for all botany and history lovers. This exhibit spotlights orchid varieties named in honor of U.S. First Ladies, and beyond the beauty of the blooms themselves, the display offers context about naming traditions, diplomacy, and the cultural significance of orchids.

Competitive classes and floral art

The competitive galleries here are the place for real-time creativity. Designers will showcase miniature landscapes, balcony gardens, botanical couture, and intricate floral sculptures to a panel of judges. The craftsmanship is said to be meticulous, and visitors will feel like they are walking through their own flower-filled design laboratory.

Artisan Row

Artisan Row is where visitors can be part of the creativity themselves. Throughout the week, local artists will lead small-group sessions with floral crowns, pressed flower art, candle pouring, tea blending, and more being offered. A note: Workshops typically require separate tickets and tend to fill quickly, so reserving your spot ahead of time is recommended.

Potting Parties with Tu Bloom

These guided container-gardening sessions walk participants through creating a professional-quality arrangement to take home. Overall, with Tu Bloom, you’ll learn practical design principles in a relaxed setting that’s equal parts instructional and social. Advance registration is recommended.

Know to Grow Speaker Series

Included with admission, this daily lecture series features horticulturists, designers, and sustainability experts sharing advice and stories. Topics range from pollinator-friendly gardens and native plants to design trends and ecological landscaping.

Family Frolic (and the Kids Cocoon)

Designed for younger visitors, this programming area offers hands-on planting activities, crafts, and interactive play spaces. It’s a fun way to introduce kids to gardening through active and engaging projects.

Flowers After Hours

On select evenings, any guest 21+ can experience the Show in a more private way with Flowers After Hours. The energetic experience will be full of music, cocktails, and themed entertainment. Note, a separate ticket is required, and these parties often sell out.

For more information on the 2026 Philadelphia Flower Show (Feb. 28-March 8) at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (1101 Arch St.), visit phsonline.org

Keywords

Philadelphia Flower Show,

gardens,

exhibits,

things to do,

Pennsylvania Convention Center