Key West Orchid Society to Host Key West Orchid Festival Feb. 28 Through March 2

KEY WEST, Fla. — Growers and lovers of fragrant and colorful exotic orchids can celebrate that passion during the Key West Orchid Festival set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 28 through March 2. 

The three-day event — attracting up to 3,000 participants annually — is to be held at the West Martello Garden Club, 1100 Atlantic Blvd. at Higgs Beach, daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s free to all attendees.

“We are the only orchid festival and show in the Florida Keys,” said Sharon Douglas, second vice-president of the Key West Orchid Society. “This is the one event where orchid lovers can get all of their orchid needs met without driving to Miami.” 

Activities are to include a blooming orchid exhibit, during which attendees can vote for “Best of Show” and take a guided tour, and daily raffles of blooming orchids. 

Vendors include famed international grower Ten Shin Orchid Nursery of Taiwan. Attendees can pre-order a Ten Shin orchid at info@tenshinorchids.com for pick-up during the festival. Orders must be placed by Monday, Feb. 3.

Regional Florida vendors include Quest Orchids, Soroa Orchids, Mac’s Orchids, Jim-N-I Orchids and J & J Unique Orchids; with OFE International showcasing orchid growing supplies; Orchids 365 selling unique orchid accessories and gifts; and new vendor Orchidique with orchid-inspired jewelry and crafts. The Monroe County Extension Service Master Gardeners also are participating.

The festival is organized by the Key West Orchid Society, whose purpose is to enhance the knowledge of orchids and their culture in the unique environment of the Florida Keys.

Orchid Society members-only admittance is Friday, Feb. 28, at 9 a.m.

Festival information and schedule: keywestorchidsociety.org/annual-orchid-festival