2011 Pacific Orchid Exposition March 3, 2011

The San Francisco Orchid Society invites you into a world of natural wonders, a world where the lines of fantasy and reality are blurred, a world where you can practically taste the colors of each bloom, and what you see is too extraordinary to believe…this world is the Pacific Orchid Exposition.

The 59th annual Pacific Orchid Exposition, held at Fort Mason Center’s Festival Pavilion on March 3-6, 2011, is themed “Natural Wonders”, encouraging all attendees to plunge into a scenic wonderland and be awed by the raw power of Mother Nature.

The Pacific Orchid Exposition (POE) is the largest orchid show in the country and is aptly named for the extraordinary, lush displays of organic beauty that are showcased every year. The event boasts more than 150,000 orchid flowers from all over the world and offers educational exhibits from local, national and international orchid growers. Because of its diverse microclimate, the Bay Area is widely acknowledged as one of the best orchid growing regions and is home to an array of exotic species.

Each day, docent tours and cultivation tips are given to thousands of visitors as they peruse this magical orchid extravaganza, perfectly pairing visual beauty with expert horticultural education. Professional and amateur growers, as well as orchid societies from across the state, will be displaying their unique orchids and rare hybrids, allowing any nature lover the chance to purchase a one-of-a-kind treasure.

The event begins Thursday, March 3rd with the anticipated Gala Benefit Preview night, giving collectors and orchid enthusiasts the first chance to browse and purchase some of the best selections of orchids before the show opens to the general public. The Gala Benefit Preview will feature live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres, fabulous raffle prizes, a silent auction, and wine tasting from over 20 of northern California premier wineries, including winners from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of American wines in the world.

This event only happens once a year, so don't miss your chance to delve into a world of "Natural Wonders" at the Pacific Orchid Exposition.