‘India Blooms’ at The Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden

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The Orchid Show India Blooms at Chicago Botanic Garden. PHOTO: CBG

The Chicago Botanic Garden is showcasing the beauty of India through “The Orchid Show: India Blooms” which starts February 8 and runs till March 23.

During those days, the Garden’s indoor galleries will be filled with more than 10,000 fresh, colorful blooms featured in displays that echo India’s diverse regions, landscapes, people, and cultures, a press release from the Chicago Botanic Garden says.

“We are honored to provide visitors with a glimpse into life and cultures in India, both past and present, as we celebrate orchids,” Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president, Visitor Events and Programs, is quoted saying. “The vibrancy and rich variety of orchid species found in India will be highlighted throughout the Show.”

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In its eleventh year, the Show will include blooming displays inspired by national symbols and celebrations of India such as a floor-to-ceiling peacock, a towering banyan tree with cascading roots, and the vivid hues of Holi in bursts of colorful powders.

On Valentine’s Day, Fridays, and select Thursday evenings, Orchids After Hours is an additional way to experience a the Show at nighttime.

The Orchid Show India Blooms floor-to-ceiling peacock at Chicago Botanic Garden. PHOTO: CBG

The following events will take place during the Show:

 Library Exhibition – Eye of the Artist: Rare Book Illustrations of India’s Flora – Saturday, February 8, through Sunday, March 23 (Wednesday – Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.)

This rare book exhibition in the Lenhardt Library features lovely botanical illustrations of India’s flora with works by both European and Indian botanical artists that showcases their distinctive artistic styles. Free library talks will be held on Friday, February 21 and Sunday, March 8 at 1 p.m.

Illinois Orchid Society Spring Show & Sale – Saturday, March 8, and Sunday, March 9 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Displays of orchids from the rarest of species to cultivated hybrids will be artistically arranged. Families can take part in orchid-based activities for children. Vendors will also be on-site to sell orchid plants and related products and Illinois Orchid Society members will offer repotting services.

Indian Community Marketplace – Saturday, March 22 and Sunday, March 23 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Meet and shop local small businesses selling Indian products, including spices, snacks, clothing, art, and home goods.

Post-Orchid Show Sale – Thursday, March 27 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

This sale is an opportunity to take home favorite orchids from the Show. Early access from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. is based on member level. All members and the public are welcome from 2 to 4 p.m., while supplies last. Please check our website and social media for updates; this event sells out quickly.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is renowned as a ‘living museum’ which aims to inspire Chicagoland and all people to connect with plants. For more information, visit chicagobotanic.org