Philadelphia Flower Show Showcases Gardens of New Orleans

The Philadelphia Flower Show, an extravagant celebration of flowers from far and wide, gets underway March 2 -- 9 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

The annual show attracts more than 250,000 people over 8 days. This year's theme, "Jazz It Up!," is inspired by New Orleans, and exhibits will transport guests to New Orleans' Garden District, French Quarter, and the backwoods and bayous of this great American city, focusing on gardens with both familiar and exotic plants.

The show will cover 10 acres with displays, and the country's top landscape and floral designers will expand on the jazz theme with gardens that feature everything from Mardi Gras colors to orchids on the bayou to a juke joint in the woods.

In addition to parades and dancing, this year's flower blow out will also feature the unique music of the Big Easy, including Big Sam's Funk Nation and local jazz great Dave Posmontier and others. Also on tap: the Hoppin' John Orchestra and UCC Brass Band, Sam Ruttenberg, Denise Bruckno and the Crosstown Brass Quintent.

Designed as a something-for-everyone celebration, the Flower Show is a great place to learn from experts. Hundreds of presentations take place throughout the week on everything from flower arranging to organic gardening, and there are plenty of hands-on demonstrations offering visitors information they can use at home.

For tickets and bargain-package info, times, and more, see the Flower Show Web site.