Sam Lemhenney, Chief of Shows and Events for the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, discussed the upcoming Philadelphia Flower Show, the premiere floral event in the US and an international attraction that draws over 250,000 visitors. Now in its 191st year, the Flower Show raises funds for PHS programming throughout the year, including Tree Tenders, community gardening projects, landscaping at the city parks, parkways and Dilworth Plaza, classroom guides, and the water management work with rain barrels and public classes and its innovative Roots to Re-Entry program, teaching landscape skills and offering job placement for the recently incarcerated. Sam described details of this year’s offering, Riviera Holiday, presented with the Principality of Monaco February 29 – March 8 at the PA Convention Center. A replica of Philadelphia’s Princess Grace’s wedding dress, a rose collection reflecting her love of the flower will be included, as well as fully landscaped gardens, recycled materials and water gardens, the annual grand entry way, the competition floor, professional demonstrations and competitions, ‘make and take’ session, the butterfly room and a large vendor arena, as well as after-hour parties and the kick off preview Gala. He reminded us that this give the region a huge boost in tourism dollars for hotels, restaurants and transportation providers plus a lasting impact on the city’s rep as a destination point. For more information go to THEFLOWERSHOW.COM or PHSONLINE.ORG.
