Orchids Take Over the New York Botanical Garden

From February 18th to April 23rd, the New York Botanical Garden will host its 20th annual Orchid Show. Each year, the show is designed around a particular artist’s theme or vision to bring the Victorian-style Enid A. Haupt Conservatory to life. This year, fashion expert and landscape artist Lily Kwong will be the show’s guest designer. Kwong’s vibrant, meditative, and captivating design will surround visitors with thousands of orchids in an effort to reconnect viewers to nature through their exquisite beauty. The showcase will also display objects of significance to the artist’s family and the Chinese community. In a video published by the NYBG, Kwong describes feeling “grounded and empowered” by taking inspiration from her ancestral connection to nature and representing her traditions in her art. Kwong hopes that, in visually representing her Chinese heritage, her art will inspire viewers to reflect on their roots. In the same video, Kwong explains that she will be working alongside Belgian florist, Daniel Ost, who will create “living sculptures” that aim to bring out the colors, textures, and diversity of each individual orchid. Live, curated music by DJ X-RAY and performances from the Orchid Dancers will add movement to the striking and distinct atmosphere of the gardens. Being immersed in the overwhelmingly beautiful and colorful orchid display will be the perfect way to brighten an otherwise dull winter in NYC. 

Tickets for the Orchid Show can be purchased on the New York Botanical Garden website for $31 for students and $35 for adults. Daytime ticket admission runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for everyone, and for those who are older than 21 there is also a special night time exhibit called Orchid Nights. On Orchid Nights, from 6:00-10:00 PM, there will be food, drinks, and the amazing experience of paying a nighttime visit to the most beautiful orchid display, all under the New York City stars. Another amazing experience offered by the NYBG is a series of classes that will teach participants how to properly maintain their orchids in one’s house, and how to make professional-level watercolor orchid paintings. With the gardens being just ten minutes away from our school, we highly suggest going to the exhibit for a once in a lifetime experience with one of the world's most beautiful flowers. 

Other than the Orchid Show, the New York Botanical Garden also has great intern opportunities available with interviews happening in early May for students interested in volunteering, training, and learning about nature and plant science through garden exploration starting in August. The intern program takes place at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, a special 12-acre outdoor and indoor museum. Immersive experiences for educators looking to learn more about science, literacy, math, art, and nature are also available at the Botanical Garden. A variety of dining options can be found at the NYBG including the Hudson Garden Grill which pulls inspiration for its seasonal menu from the Garden’s acclaimed Edible Academy Program. The Edible Academy Program is a hands-on educational facility for children, families, and teachers that revolves around growing and preparing fruits, vegetables, and herbs while also teaching nutrition awareness, gardening, and taking care of the environment. There are also multiple other great exhibits and collections going on at the NYBG if you cannot make it to the Orchid show. There is an all garden pass that includes daytime access to all of the garden and all of its collections and the tickets are $35 for adults, and $31 for students. But, on Wednesdays if you are a New York City resident you can bring proof of residency to get a grounds admission ticket which is $15 for adults, and $7 dollars for students. But, the only downside of this ticket is that it does not give you access to the garden’s Special Exhibitions, Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and Tram Tour. To get here from RCS is a very short Uber or Lyft ride or if you are a senior with a car, even better! No matter how or when we highly suggest that you take some time to visit the New York Botanical Gardens to be able to get closer to nature and escape everyday stress without leaving the city.