Philadelphia International Flower Show, March 6-13, 2011

The Philadelphia International Flower Show always comes at just the right time, with a welcome escape from the blustery, snowy winter. Presented at the Pennsylvania Convention Center at 12th and Arch Streets, over ten acres of display space will be abloom in lavish floral displays, highlighting this year's theme, "Springtime in Paris." The largest and oldest indoor flower show in the world, the Philadelphia International Flower Show draws over 250,000 visitors and hundreds of exhibitors each year from all over the world. This year's show is set in a park along the Seine, inspired by the famed French Tuileries Gardens.

Attractions and Displays: Featured displays highlight the romance and opulence of Paris, its art and gourmand communities and the courtyards, rooftops and cafes of the Moulin Rouge era. Visitors can wander through lilac gardens, flowering trees, lavender and roses, while enjoying cabaret performances, carousel topiaries and flower sculptures.

Lectures and Demonstrations: National and local gardening authors, celebrities and experts will present more than 150 free gardening presentations and dozens of educational displays on new gardening trends. For a schedule of these lectures and presentations, visit this site, and the Gardener's Studio, here.

Entertainment: Ooh-la-la! What would Springtime in Paris be without "Can-Can" dancers delighting the crowd on the Philadelphia International Flower Show's "Carousel Stage." Located in the center of the show floor, continuous musical entertainment is presented throughout the Flower Show, complemented by strolling street artists roaming and serenading the show floor. And don't miss the animated menagerie of floral decked animal sculptures that will be brought to life by Valley Forge Flowers.

Wine and Spirits Garden: After you've finished your tour, relax at the Pennsylvania Wine & Spirits Garden for free tastings in the Grand Hall. Along with wines and liquors from around the world, this year's French theme will be represented by selections from the Bordeaux region.

The Garden Tea: The Garden Tea at the Flower Show is an annual favorite, offering petite sandwiches, pastries, fruit and an assortment of fine teas in an atmosphere of relaxing music and, of course, flowers. Reservations are required, tickets can be purchased here.

Shopping: Take advantage of shopping opportunities, featuring merchandise for your family, home and garden. The Shoppe is the official Flower Show store, where you can purchase 2011 commemorative Flower Show gifts and clothes, and unique garden gadgets and specialty items. The Marketplace features over 180 vendors selling crafts, garden furniture, unusual plants and containers, garden tools and cut flowers. See a complete list of vendors here. The Meadowbrook Farm Store at the Flower Show features a wide variety of gifts for the home and garden, including herb topiaries, tropical plants and houseplants.

Visit this site for exact dates, times and ticket prices. Visit this site for information on buying tickets online or at local retail outlets. I've already got my tickets, hope to see you there!

Sources: TheFlowerShw.Com; Flower show Attractions; Floral Creatures Carousel