 Arts & Culture: America's first flower show, held in Philadelphia in 1829, featured 25 members of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society showcasing their gardening expertise. Today, the Philadelphia Flower Show is the largest indoor flower show in the world and the premier gardening show in the U.S., delighting 275,000 visitors annually. Held in the Pennsylvania Convention Center in historic Center City Philadelphia, the Flower Show boasts lectures and demonstrations, culinary presentations, 140 marketplace vendors, and of course spectacular gardening and landscape displays over 33 indoor acres.
The theme of the 2007 Flower Show, which runs from March 4 - 11, is "Legends of Ireland." The website promises "a playground of Irish gardens,  music, and dance," featuring Irish singers, dancers and storytellers amidst dazzling floral displays showcasing the unique elements of Irish gardens.
In addition to general admission tickets, Flower Show enthusiasts wishing to have a more intimate experience can purchase tickets to one of the Garden Teas or the exclusive Preview Reception and Dinner. Garden Tea tickets are limited, and seats are pre-assigned at tables seating four to five. Garden Tea patrons enjoy a scrumptious selection of tea sandwiches, pastries and cookies in a private room away from the hustle and bustle of the main show floor.
For those who want the full luxe experience, there is the black-tie Preview Reception and Dinner, held the night before the show opens. Guests nibble on gourmet hors d'oeuvres and sip cocktails while strolling through the main show floor in an up-close tour of the floral displays prior to them being opened to the public. Afterwards, they retire to the grand ballroom for an elegant dinner served with a selection of fine wines. Private preview dinner suites and corporate opportunities are available.
Proceeds from the main show and special events benefit the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and its outreach programs, including Philadelphia Green, the largest and most comprehensive urban greening program in the U.S. Show information, including tickets, reservations, accommodations and a map of the show floor, are available on the show's website.
For LxM Teresa Rothaar
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