Travel

Take a vibrant journey at Chicago's 'The Orchid Show: India Blooms'

by TRANS WORLD FEATURES | @twfindia 10 Feb 2025, 02:46 am

Opened on Feb 8, the Chicago Botanic Garden explores the beauty of India through the harmony of tradition and modern design during The Orchid Show: India Blooms. 

Running through March 23, the Garden’s indoor galleries will be filled with more than 10,000 fresh, colorful blooms featured in displays that echo the country’s diverse regions, landscapes, people, and cultures.  

“We are honored to provide visitors with a glimpse into life and cultures in India, both past and present, as we celebrate orchids,” said Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president, Visitor Events and Programs. “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 a captivating way to experience a nighttime viewing of the Show. Cocktails and light bites, including fried goat cheese and skewered Manchurian shrimp, will be available for purchase.

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Regular hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily. During Orchids After Hours, the Show is open on select evenings from 5 to 8 p.m., and for Photographers’ Hours, the Show is open 8:15 to 9:45 a.m. and 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Tickets are on sale now. Visit https://www.chicagobotanic.org/orchid for more information and to purchase tickets.

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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.)

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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 re-potting services. 

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

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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.)

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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.