EAST MARLBOROUGH — Escape to a lush sanctuary filled with nearly 5,000 blooming orchids during Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens January 18 through March 22. As one of the first plant collections at Longwood, orchids have held a place of distinction since 1922. Longwood’s talented horticulturists celebrate the beauty and variety of orchids with an artful display that includes spiraling Phalaenopsis, larger than life Ludsia baskets, and a tapestry of vibrant Vanda.
Bask within the heated 4-acre Conservatory as orchid blooms drape from walls, spill from containers, and hang from the ceiling. In the Main Conservatory, swirls of orchids weave around columns featuring salmon Phal Taida Momoko, Phal Taida Smile ‘Taida Little Green’, and asparagus ferns. In the East Conservatory, pink Phalaenopsis arrangements rest atop cast bronze urns with water cascading off the edges while three large bright purple Phalaenopsis baskets hang from above.
Outdoors, a more subdued beauty illustrates how native plants can be used for both aesthetic and habitat benefit. Stroll among the serene winter landscape of the Hillside Garden or reflect among a symphony of copper and umber hues in the Meadow Garden.
In early March, Longwood’s famed blue poppy (Meconopsis ‘Lingholm’) returns to the Conservatory. These spectacular flowers—which are native to the high elevations of the Himalayan Mountains— are grown using a special technique to force the blue-poppies to flower in March. The substantial petals are a mesmerizing sky-blue color and are a must see.
In addition to the one-of-a-kind horticultural display, Orchid Extravaganza features activities and programs for the entire family, including concerts, talks, tours, OrKid Days, and more.
OrKID Days are filled with wonder and fun for families. Discover the colors, patterns, and beauty of orchids through art activities and storytelling. OrKID Days are January 20, February 17, and March 14 from 11 am–2 pm. Free with Gardens Admission.
The Berlin Philharmonic Piano Quartet performs undiscovered masterpieces as well as the standards of classical, romantic, and modern literature, as they present a program by composers Frank Bridge, Danny Elfman, and Richard Strauss on Friday, February 28.
On Saturday, February 29 Joey Alexander returns to our Gardens and showcases new material from his upcoming album, WARNA, with Verve Records. Translating as “color” from Alexander’s native language of Bahasa and slated for release in late January, the album is primarily a reflective collection of new and original music.
Longwood Gardens Principal Organist Peter Richard Conte and POLYPHONIA, the all-professional choir of Saint Clement’s Church, Philadelphia, together present sacred and secular music spanning four centuries on Friday, March 13.
Known for her artistry and commitment to peace between Israelis and Palestinians, Noa and her long-standing musical collaborator and guitarist Gil Dor present a diverse and inspiring repertoire on Thursday, March 19.
Special tickets are required for the performances and can be purchased online at longwoodgardens.org.
Orchid Extravaganza runs January 18–March 22. The Gardens are open daily from 9 am–5 pm. Admission is $25 for adults; $22 for seniors (age 62+); $13 for students (ages 5–18 or with valid student ID) and free ages 4 and under. Group rates available. For more details, visit longwoodgardens.org.
