The heritage-listed Carlton Gardens and iconic Royal Exhibition Building will be transformed into a plant paradise. Be amazed by enchanting floral and landscape designs, workshops, a floral-inspired high tea and more at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. This festival for all ages will run from Wednesday March 20 to Sunday March 24.
Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
After a record-breaking attendance last year, this exciting event is coming back with sensational new experiences. Over five days, plant parents and flower lovers across Melbourne will be able to explore a wide range of installations, exhibitions, talks and more.
What can you expect inside the Royal Exhibition Building?
During the festival, the Royal Exhibition Building will be transformed into the Great Hall of Flowers. See the work of Victoria’s leading florists and flower designers, with interactive and artistic floral installations. Then, check out the Retail Flower Market and find some beautiful blooms to take home. Inside the hall, you’ll also find the RMIT Floral Fashion exhibit, where the scent of thousands of fresh flowers will fill the air. Engaged couples will find plenty of inspiration at the Wedding Floral Showcase. Don’t miss the Blooms Unleashed exhibit, which will showcase plenty of aerial floral displays.
In the building, check out the Main Stage, which will host an extensive line-up of floral artists, gardening experts and celebrity landscapers. See live demonstrations and floral competitions from industry leaders.
Have fun or learn something new with plenty of workshops, including the Brush & Bubbles classes. Enjoy a drink of your choice and create your own floral-inspired masterpiece. Other workshops include creating wearable florals, learning about Kokedama and making preserved moss art.
Once you’ve seen enough, take a break with a floral-inspired High Tea. Nestle into an exclusive lounge area, and check out a carefully crafted menu from a team of chefs. Pair your meal with some tea, coffee or sparkling wine.
Outside the building
The event will have a number of firsts this year, including the first Indigenous Show Garden. Made in collaboration with the Wurundjeri Council, this garden will offer an immersive visitor experience that reflects the connection between the land and its custodians.
There will also be a new Urban Forest precinct in the Royal Exhibition Building forecourt. This entertainment area will be open from 11am until the early evening. Available to festivalgoers and passers-by, this free space will have food trucks, DJs and twice-daily workshops.
The Show Gardens competition will make a return, with internationally-acclaimed landscape designers from Sweden, Ireland and Japan. Vote for your favourite, and the winner will receive a People’s Choice Award.
Find inspiration with the Achievable Gardens and Boutique Gardens display, then wander through the Arts & Sculpture Precinct for cool sculptures. There will also be activities and educational experiences for the little ones.
Gardens by Twilight
The show will transform into a magical place for one night only. Explore the twilight wonderland and enjoy added evening entertainment like stilt walkers, fire artists and LED hoop artists. Then, indulge in gourmet food and botanical beverages. The High Tea Lounge menu will extend into the evening with a new Twilight Tapas offering. Gardens by Twilight will take place on Friday March 22, and stay open until 9pm.
For more ideas of what to expect at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, click here.