The Orchid Show of Wonders at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicagoans don't have to wait until spring to get their flower fix. Through March 24, visitors can set their sights on a floral wonderland—brought to life by more than 10,000 fresh picturesque blossoms at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s annual Orchid Show of Wonders.
The eye-catching show will celebrate its 10th year this season, acclaimed for bringing the cotton candy-fueled reminiscence of circus sideshows through the garden’s gates—to visitors of all ages. Childlike wonder turns to the wild side with gravity-defying circus performances and nostalgic fare, all set with a vivid, blooming backdrop.
“We are excited to showcase an orchid spectacle unlike any other this year,” said Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president of visitor events and programs. “This show provides a new twist on the circus that is sure to entertain visitors of all ages.”
Gallery views of orchid varieties
Watch as unicycle-clad performers teeter on tightropes, balance beneath Ferris wheel seats and suspend themselves in the air as quintessential carnival melodies set the scene.
Experience the show at Orchids After Hours, available on select Thursday and Friday evenings. After dark, visitors can treat themselves to cocktails, prosecco splits, cotton candy, chocolate desserts, funnel cakes and light bites, or snap photos in the vintage, open-air photo booth.
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During the show, the Chicago Botanic Garden will host its Captivating Cattleyas Library Exhibition from Saturday, Feb. 10, through Sunday, March 24. The rare book exhibit will showcase colorful nineteenth-century illustrations of Cattleya orchids in Lenhardt Library.
Guests can get an inside look at orchid varieties, participate in family-friendly themed activities, purchase orchids and receive help repotting from the pros at the Illinois Orchid Society Spring Show & Sale, on Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10. Or, take a memento of the show home with you at the Post-Orchid Show Sale, where rare orchids and cultivated hybrids are sold to flora and fauna enthusiasts.
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Photography by: Photos Courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden
