If you didn’t get a chance to go on any romantic getaways to Hawaii yet this year, catch a break from the winter blues, stateside, at the annual Philadelphia International Flower Show. The 2012 theme is “Hawaii: Islands of Aloha,” and takes place March 4-11. The event has been in existence for the past 183 years; however it has changed greatly since its conception in 1827 by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS). Beginning in 1996 the show has been held in the Pennsylvania Convention Center located conveniently near Philadelphia’s renowned Reading Terminal Market.
The Philadelphia International Flower Show is truly a special event. The year I attended the theme title was "Jazz it Up" and featured New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Ornate arrangements bloomed from the spouts of antique jazz instruments, the French Quarter was replicated in the middle of the convention center complete with flowering store fronts, and live music was performed while we walked through yard-sized horticultural displays. The show is much more than just flowers; the event includes everything from miniature arrangements and gardens of full-sized trees to runway worthy clothing fashioned from petals and fronds.
This year’s show is set to include motion graphics that mimic the ocean surf on the ceiling of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, an authentic twenty-five foot waterfall, Hawaiian dancers and musicians, island craftsman, and a breath-taking display of exotic and tropical flora that grace the convention center every year. In keeping with the theme, the PHS has set up a village that will allow visiting and local Hawaiian craftspeople to sell their goods. Hula dancing and Hawaiian cowboy exhibits are also included this year.
For a VIP experience, join PHS on Saturday March 3rd for the Flower Show preview party. An elegant black tie event, the party will be set against stunning exotic flowers and a tropical ambiance. An after party will follow complete with Mai Tais, a DJ, and dancing. On Saturday, meet reality star and natural food chef Bethenny Frankel who will be signing bottles from her Skinnygirl product line—an exclusive event for Flower Show guests.
After getting a little taste of the tropics, head over to Reading Terminal Market to enjoy organic produce, fresh meats, cheeses, and seafood. The Market is the place to have a truly authentic Philly cheese steak, made to order with freshly marinated beef and locally produced cheeses melted to perfection. Try Amish specialty foods, baked goods, or peruse hand-made gifts and jewelry—a unique environment that blends a variety of ethnic backgrounds and culinary appetites.
For more information about the Philadelphia International Flower Show and events visit TheFlowerShow.com
To plan a trip and to learn about all the vendors located inside Reading Terminal Market visit ReadingTerminalMarket.com.
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