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, high tea and more at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. This festival for all ages will run from Wednesday March 26 to Sunday March 30.
Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
Over five days, plant parents and flower lovers across Melbourne will be able to explore a wide range of installations, exhibitions, talks and more at this stunning annual event. Marvel at the creative works of living art, and learn more tips to help you with your gardening at home.
What can you expect inside the Royal Exhibition Building?
Under the dome of the Royal Exhibition Building, you’ll find a gorgeous new installation. Named the ‘Bloom Room’, this immersive space will feature hand-painted florals by Sara Sidari, and blend illustration with fresh flowers. You’ll also find glowing bioluminescent blooms, an evolving floral wall and Monet-inspired reflections with mirrored surfaces.
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. You’ll also find works on display from floral competitions, such as the Hanging Installation Competition and the Floral Design Competition.
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.
Upstairs, you’ll also find an art exhibition, where you can purchase creative pieces to take home.
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 painting. Take part in flower arranging workshops, or go green with a Kokedama workshop.
Once you’ve seen enough, take a break with high tea from Mary Eats Cake. Surrounded by the spectacular floral displays, you’ll nibble on sweet and savoury bites, such as finger sandwiches and strawberry mille feuille. Pair it with sparkling wine, tea and coffee. You will need to book a ticket to attend the high tea.
Outside the building
Enter the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show by stepping through the Welcome Garden. This space will feature a giant, Rubik’s Cube-inspired structure, and will host expert talks and live demonstrations.
Take a stroll outside and admire different designs in the Show Gardens competition. Vote for your favourite, and the winner will receive a People’s Choice Award.
Find inspiration with the Achievable Gardens and Boutique Gardens display, and find plenty of décor, plants, tools, garden furniture and more at the Retail Precinct. Amble through the Sculpture Precinct and admire some cool pieces.
There will also be activities and educational experiences for the little ones, so the whole family can have fun.
Gardens by Twilight
The show will transform into a magical place for two nights. 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. Gardens by Twilight will take place on Thursday March 27 and Saturday March 29. It will stay open until 9pm each night.
Floral Friday
For the first time, visitors are encouraged to take part in Floral Friday. Dress up in florals, add a floral-inspired accessory or find another way to embrace the theme. If you take part in Floral Friday, you’ll get exclusive discounts at the Floral Market. The best-dressed visitors will also win prizes.
For more ideas of what to expect at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, click here.