An Orchid Show Near You!

In spring, everyone gets a little energy boost. The sunshine increases, the temperatures are rising, and life is getting easier. For orchid lovers, there is another reason to rejoice; the orchid show season is back!

The Great Mobilization of Orchid Lovers

Each of these shows invites us to discover a world of exotic beauty. What better way to make us forget the inconveniences of winter! Even the smallest exhibitions bring together several hundred orchids assembled in very refined and spectacular displays. These plants are usually provided by local orchid lovers who select their most beautiful flowering orchids to display in exhibitions. Some dealers also take the opportunity to highlight exceptional plants from their catalogue, much to the delight of visitors.

Most of these exhibitions are the work of passionate volunteers who spend many hours designing and preparing original displays. We must also highlight the hospitality of the institutions that host these exhibitions with great enthusiasm and kindness.

Quality Exhibitions – All Over America and Europe

Several exhibitions are planned for this spring in Canada, America and Europe. It would take too long to list them all here, but you can consult the websites of your national federations for a complete list.

In Canada, check out the Canadian Orchid Congress (COC) website.

In the USA, the American Orchid Society has a full calendar.

If you prefer, a Google search can also be just as effective and faster.

For our readers in Quebec, we would like to highlight the three magnificent exhibitions that take place each year in Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa between mid-March and the end of April. The dates vary slightly from year to year, so it is worth checking to confirm the location and dates for the current year.

First, the OrchidExpo – Montreal – March 29 & 30, 2025

Having seen about thirty orchid shows in America and Europe, the one in Montreal remains my favorite. It is a great show, not only for the quantity but also for the quality of the plants on display. There are local exhibitors, of course, but also exhibitors from South America and Asia, which gives this international event an incomparable diversity.

Next up, Orchidofolie – Quebec – April 5 & 6, 2025

The Quebec show is more modest than the Montreal show, but it has just as much charm. Access to the site is very easy and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Exhibitors are often present to answer your questions – which is always very appreciated.

And finally, Orchidophilia – Ottawa – April 26 & 27, 2025

This show is very complete with sophisticated displays, a large commercial section including international suppliers. The Orchidphilia also offers workshops given by very experienced orchid growers. It is therefore an experience that is both entertaining and educational. With a bit of luck, the tulips will be in bloom and your trip will also be full of enchantments 😉

Some Practical Tips for Visitors

To avoid peak times, it is advisable to plan your visit in the late afternoon or early after the opening. This will help you avoid the queues and crowds around the most spectacular displays that are inevitable in the early afternoon.

Most exhibitions offer a “volunteer guide” service to accompany you and provide explanations during your visit. Ask about this when registering, it can add a lot to your experience.

Children are often impressed by orchid displays, but if they are a little short on patience, you can take advantage of the visit to play a game of “seek and find”. This will stimulate their interest in the exhibit and give you several minutes of respite to finish your visit. For example, “Search and find: the most beautiful flower in the exhibition” or “Search and find: the smallest or largest flower on display”.

Of course, there are no wrong answers 😉

If you want to buy plants, the best time is at the beginning of the show. Some orchid societies offer to their members special access to the commercial area before the show opens to the general public. Check the show website for details. Remember to bring your reusable bags and plan for safe storage for the return trip home to protect your new acquisitions from the risks of transport!

Many visitors will enjoy being accompanied by a parent or friend. Indeed, it is an activity that many people enjoy and the visit can be enriched by the perspective of a visiting companion. Do not hesitate to talk about it with those around you.

Make sure you don’t forget, make a note in your diary of your favorite exhibition.

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank the orchid societies of Montreal, Quebec and Ottawa for allowing the reproduction of their 2025 exhibition poster.

Editor’s Note

Mr. Charpentier’s columns on orchids are published on the Jardinier Paresseux website under a legal “Copyleft” model. Horticultural societies may include his columns in their technical journal or simply distribute the internet link to their members. Please include the following credit:

This article was originally published in French on the JardinierParesseux.com website and in English on LaidBackgardener blog.