Earlier this summer I attended my first Philadelphia Flower Show and had the pleasure of learning more about its history and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Although this is my third year living in Pennsylvania, I must admit this was the first year I had heard and read about the show. A quick “things to do in Philly this weekend” Google search led me to this article from Visit Philadelphia about the current year’s show. It was the perfect activity I needed for visual sensory stimulation and to unwind.

To my luck, I found out early enough in the week to snatch a ticket for the last day — Sunday, June 19. To add to that luck, a group of friends planned on attending the same day, so I adjusted my departure time and met with them for the show. It was indeed a hot summer day in the city — nothing compared to the recent heat waves — yet nice enough for outdoor activities when we arrived early that afternoon.

The event took place in Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park; this was the second time the event has been held outdoors in its nearly 200-year history. As my title suggests, this year’s theme was In Full Bloom, referencing and focusing on the curative powers of nature. Everything was eye-catching the moment you entered the show; some of us picked up a refreshing spiked lemonade and then proceeded to browse the different installations and bask in the beauty that surrounded us. Over the years the show has educated its attendees about gardening and floral design and the importance of implementing sustainable gardening practices.

This year’s show was special for many reasons, but according to Visit Philadelphia, there were more women than ever exhibiting at the show, and the emphasis on diversity was noticeable. The tickets’ proceeds go to support for community gardens and accessible educational programs about produce gardening to increase peoples’ access to fresh food.

We spent most of our time at the show in the butterfly garden because … well, why not? We each lucked out and hung out with one for a little while. After some more walking and browsing, we stopped at the Food Bazaar and grabbed finger-licking-good brisket grilled cheese sandwiches from Wilson’s Secret Sauce BBQ.

After the show, I headed to Fishtown and grabbed some ice cream from Jeni’s and walked around the area for a bit before I headed home. Overall, I think it being the last day of the show impacted some of the displays, but I would definitely go back next year to take advantage of the educational sessions.

— Yasser Ogando, advertising & production manager