Providence Hospital Foundation is bringing back its Festival of Flowers for a 17th year, with the four-day event set for March 25-28, 2010, on the Providence Hospital campus in Mobile. The flower-and-garden showcase, staged under tents and open sky, has grown into one of the largest events of its kind on the Gulf Coast, filling more than 300,000 square feet with exhibits, gardens and vendor displays.
The festival has been recognized for more than a decade by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of its Top 20 Events for the month of March, and it has drawn praise over the years from community groups, industry organizations and area tourism leaders. Proceeds from the event support Providence Hospital Foundation.
This Year’s Theme: ‘Stand By Me’
Organizers built the 2010 festival around the theme “Stand By Me,” weaving international music and flowers into a global tapestry of gardens meant to carry visitors from England to Holland to Asia and points between. A giant Old World-style windmill anchors one display, reimagining a familiar energy concept with a modern twist.
A new addition this year, the Floral Couture exhibit, features whimsical outfits fashioned entirely from greenery and flowers. Elsewhere on the grounds, flowers from every continent and subcontinent are on display, alongside a Garden-scape and floral-design exhibit featuring artist in residence Sarah Haas.
Activities for Gardeners and Families
Beyond the floral displays, the festival offers something for home gardeners, artists and families alike. Master Gardeners are on hand throughout the event to answer questions and offer advice to home gardeners. The Gardener’s Galleria brings in vendors from across the country selling art and goods for the home and garden, while a separate area sells garden gear and equipment.
The World of Photography contest showcases local visual talent, and the Seeds of Wisdom exhibit transforms written works by local literary enthusiasts into floral designs. The Blooming Cuisine program highlights food preparation and kitchen design using fresh vegetables, herbs and flowers, and visitors can grab a bite at the on-site Garden Cafe. The Mobile Museum of Art also runs a weekend program with activities for children of all ages.
The Festival of Flowers has become a fixture on the Mobile area’s spring calendar, drawing garden enthusiasts and families from across the region each year. More information on hours, tickets and the full schedule of exhibits is available through Providence Hospital Foundation ahead of the March 25-28 event.