NC Arboretum Spring Shows

The North Carolina Arboretum celebrates bright blooms as it hosts major flower shows that showcase spring’s beauty. And spring is a great time to visit on any day!

Asheville Orchid Festival (2022 event canceled)
WNC Orchid Society fills the Education Center in this judged show that also features orchid plants and supplies for sale by world-class vendors. Read more about the Orchid Show.

Thanks FLO Birthday Celebration: April 26, 2022
This family fun day will be full of outdoor events to celebrate Olmsted's 200th birthday! 

Mountain Science Expo: April 30, 2022
This year's focus will be on the City Nature Challenge (CNC), a worldwide bioblitz where everyday people are invited to submit a photo and/or sound observations of the plants and animals they find. Community scientists of all ages will use the Arboretum's 434-acre campus as their laboratory as they attend nature walks, visit exhibit booths, attend field equipment demonstrations and aid our state's scientists in learning more about the plants and animals that call North Carolina home. 

May-October Thursdays: ArborEvenings 
Relax and unwind at this after-hours series every Thursday and Friday, June-September, 5:30-8 PM. Sip and stroll through the Arboretum’s beautiful gardens while enjoying live music amongst flowers. Local beverages, including beer and wine, are available for purchase along with light food options. Admission is free to members. Standard parking fees apply to non-members. Go to their website for details. 

World Bonsai Day Celebration: May 14, 2022
A 2-day event Saturday and Sunday centered on the seasonal return of bonsai specimens to the Bonsai Garden. 

Spring Plant Sale & Vendor Market: May 27 & 28, 2022
Update your garden and home while supporting The North Carolina Arboretum Society, Wednesday, 10 AM -7 PM, and Thursday, 10 AM-5 PM. Then a tailgate-style market on Friday and Saturday, 10 AM-2 PM. Choose from the best selection of annuals, perennials, succulents, and tillandsias grown by Arboretum staff.

Admission
Most shows and events are free for Arboretum Society members or with the standard parking fee ($16 per personal motor vehicle). Visitors are encouraged to explore the Arboretum’s kaleidoscope of spring color, 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, engaging exhibits, and bountiful opportunities to connect with nature.

For more information for visiting, see our NC Arboretum Guide.