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 29 to Sunday April 2.
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, gardening products, educational 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 floral inspiration at the Wedding Showcase, and the Scotts Osmocote Indoor Plant Zone will provide plenty of tips for your plants at home.
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 new Brush & Bubbles classes. Enjoy a drink of your choice and create your own floral-inspired masterpiece.
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 festival’s outdoor program will feature over 40 garden displays. Ten landscape designers from around the world will demonstrate their skill with the Show Gardens. 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 Sculpture Precinct for art demonstrations.
The little ones will have plenty to see and do, with interactive experiences and activities that will help grow their green thumbs. Pop into The Diggers Club for plant tips and tricks, learn about bees in an immersive pollinator garden, and find out how to grow food at home in the veggie patch space.
Throughout the show, you’ll find over 150 retail exhibitors, selling everything from garden tools to exotic plants. Musicians will play live tunes across the five days, so you’ll always be entertained.
Gardens by Twilight
The show will transform into a magical place for one night only. Explore the twilight wonderland with a guided tour, and enjoy added evening entertainment like stilt walkers, fire artists and LED hoop artists.
Sip on a glass of bubbly from The Prosecco Van, and try their exclusive smooth espresso martini blend. Then, indulge yourself with some gourmet food and botanical beverages.
Gardens by Twilight will take place on Friday March 31, from 5pm to 9pm.
For more ideas of what to expect at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, click here.