2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show: 'Springtime in Paris'

The 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show, Springtime in Paris, opened at the new Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City Philadelphia on March 6 and will run through Sunday, March 13.

The show, a beautiful array of floral designs and art pieces is a beautiful way to welcome in the spring, even if it is still a few weeks away.

As you enter the show, you are transported to Paris, with a large model of the Eiffel Tower, that fits as much of the landmark into the Convention Center as possible without shrinking down the size; floral carousel sculptures abound and tea time patios, peeks into backyard gardens, kitchens and floral dreams make the show a springtime success.

We loved the orchid display, found all the way in the back of the show – a larger display which, during peak visiting hours can get a long line for viewing. Not only is the display gorgeous (all orchids of many varieties), but the smell that wafts out to the crowd is so beautiful that it draws you closer for a deeper smell of the beautiful flowers.

At many of the displays, the designers are on hand to talk about their display and answer questions. This is a great time for at-home gardeners to ask burning questions about certain plants, techniques, etc.

“Ask a gardener” booths are also set up around the perimeter of the show for at-home gardeners to ask questions and get professional answers to their questions. There are also local landscapers, florists and gardens on hand (and for hire) for all of your floral needs. You can take home potted, cut, or hydroponic plants to try your own hand at gardening, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a first timer.

The show opens at 10 a.m. throughout the week and is open until 9:30 p.m. However, going later in the day is better, when most people have left for dinner or to explore the rest of the city.

Also, a word of warning, many visitors found delicious foods next door at Reading Terminal Market. While I agree wonderful, local flavors can be found there, the lines can get atrocious because the amount of people trying to get lunch and dinner at the same time. Walk down to Broad Street and check out some of the local fare there, with shorter lines.

Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show

This weekend at the Pennsylvania Convention Center will be the Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show. At the show, visitors will be able to visit booths of various travel vendors and learn about possible vacation ideas. You'll even be able to book trips right at the show through deals that are available only this weekend. Various seminars will also be given by various travel experts including Arthur Frommer, of the famous Frommer's travel guides.

There will also be opportunities to win various prizes, including free trips. For the children, there will be an area with a moon bounce, face painting, hair wrapping and arts & crafts.

For you die-hard Eagles fans, former Eagle linebacker Dhani Jones will also be making an appearance and will be available for autographs on the first day of the show.

If you're interested, the show will be open to the public for a fee of $10 at the door. On Saturday, January 22 they will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, January 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show: 'Springtime in Paris'

While it might be frigid outside and your lawn may be covered in a few inches of snow these days, Spring is fast approaching to the relief of many Pennsylvanians. For the week of March 6 to March 13 the Pennsylvania Convention Center will be featuring the world famous 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show.

This year's theme is "Springtime in Paris" and through the exhibitions on display visitors will feel as though they've been transported to the romantic feel of Paris, France. There will be acres of gardens, cafes, parks and floral displays on show for you to visit, as well as a 33 foot high reproduction of the Eiffel Tower.
For anyone who has been to Paris in the past, this will be a chance for you to feel like a slight refresher from your previous trip there. For anyone who hasn't experienced France, this will be a nice way to get an experience on what it would be like there if you ever decide to hop a flight to Paris.

There will be a wide variety of plants and products for sale for anyone with an interest in botany in any form, from beginners to advanced horticulturalists. There will even be culinary demonstrations available by some of France's most notable chefs as well as a wine and spirits garden with free tastings.

Tickets are available directly at www.theflowershow.com and the price for an adult is $25/day. Students can get in for $20/day and children have a $15/day admission charge.