The Philadelphia Horticultural Society’s (PHS) Philadelphia Flower Show is the nation’s largest and longest-running horticultural event and features stunning displays by the world’s premier floral and landscape designers. Started in 1829, the show featured new plant varieties, garden and design concepts, and organic and sustainable practices.

In addition to the major garden displays, the Flower Show covered 10 acres of the Philadelphia Convention Center with world-renowned competitions in horticulture and artistic floral arranging, gardening presentations and demonstrations, special events and a mammoth indoor Marketplace. In a word: HEAVEN!!

The 2016 theme, “Explore America,” had visitors start their adventure in the “Big Timber Lodge,” a modern interpretation of classic park architecture, where they were welcomed by National Park Service Rangers in a nod to the National Park Service’s 100th anniversary.  The structure of wood and stone was enhanced by Native American-inspired art, floral totems, a dazzling 12-foot waterfall, emulated giant redwoods and a life-size American buffalo and bear sculptures by artist Emily White.

The 2016 President’s Bus Trip (March 11-13) saw nearly 100 OAGC members and friends board 2 buses and make their way to hotels in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The trip also included two fantastic Amish style meals and a day at the flower show. OAGC bus trips are an easy way to ‘hit the road’ so be sure to join us on future trips. You won’t be sorry.