Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden. Photo courtesy of Jeff Carrion / Chicago Botanic Garden
It may feel like winter in Chicago but Orchids with a capital O are brightening the greenhouse area of the Chicago Botanic Garden, now through March 22, 2026.
An over the top, popular annual show, the Botanic Garden is this year transporting visitors with a retro theme back to the 60s and 70s.
Mostly taking place in the greenhouses, the event still sports its familiar welcome to our showy blooms vibe so bring the camera or cell phone to take memorable photos.
For a special evening treat visit Orchids After Hours, Saturdays: February 28; March 7, 14, 21, Fridays: February 27; March 6, 13, 20 and Thursdays: March 12 & 19, 5 to 8 p.m.
The Chicago Botanic Garden borders Edens Hwy at 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (at Highland Park).
Artist Carolyn McMahon gets inspiration and later some orchids for a pot she made. (Photo by artist Mark McMahon)
Visitors to Chicago Botanic Garden’s annual Orchid Show walk around a profusion of color before seeing what looks like a tunnel leading to the greenhouses. But they should consider the title of the 2023 Orchid Show – “Magnified.”
The floral covered structure is one way to interpret or introduce visitors to another way of looking at and appreciating orchids – through a lens.
Past shows have featured such aspects as orchid occasions and locations. “Magnified” suggests viewing a variety of orchids through lenses to better see different characteristics.
Jodi Zombolo, Botanic Garden associate vice president of programs, pointed out that “Magnified” showcased the beauty of orchids through “immersive” experiences.
“This show provides a playful opportunity to connect with and admire each orchid part,” said Zombolo. She hoped the experience would leave visitors “inspired and wowed.”
Signs suggest what to seek and find. (J Jacobs photo)
Column of orchids at Chicago Botanic Garden Orchid Show (J Jacobs photo
Visitors can view up close and personal, single orchids through strong lenses across from the greenhouses. Next to them are labels that suggest what to look for.
Looking at orchids from one side (J Jacobs photo)
Then, when strolling through the greenhouses they will get the larger picture. Some orchids like to grow in columns and others, individually and in bunches.
Be sure to gaze through lenses in the Regenstein corridor before or after the show. (Jacobs photo)Orchids in the Greenhouses are in bunches, paired and individually showcased. ( J Jacobs photo)
To turn the Orchid show into a special event, come to After-Hours or when a sale is taking place.
After-Hours: Feb. 14 and Thursdays 5-8 p.m. (Requires different tickets) Sales: Venders are there March 25-26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Illinois Orchid Society Spring Show and sale are March 11-12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Post Orchid Show Plant Sale is March 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
