Feel Groovy at Chicago Botanic Garden’s Orchid Show

The Chicago Botanic Garden, in Glencoe, rewinds to the ‘60s and ‘70s from February 7 through March 22 during The Orchid Show: Feelin’ Groovy. Indoor galleries will be filled with more than 10,000 fresh, colorful blooms arranged in displays that echo the era’s bright colors, funky patterns and love for Mother Nature.  

“We are excited to showcase orchids in technicolor this year,” says Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president of visitor events and programs. “No matter if you lived through this time period or only know it from photos and stories, attendees of all ages will be transported by hearing the songs and seeing the design elements used among the orchids from this groovy era.”

Now in its 12th year, the show will feature displays that radiate good vibes, including floor-to-ceiling sunbeams of cascading orchids, a 10-foot lava lamp glowing with colorful blooms and a flower-filled Volkswagen Beetle cruising through a Route 66 daydream.

On Valentine’s Day and select Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Orchids After Hours offers a nighttime experience of the show, with cocktails and light bites available for purchase. February 21 and March 21 feature special 21-plus nights with a silent disco, set to hits from the era.

Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. During Orchids After Hours, the show is open select evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. Photographers’ Hours take place Tuesdays from 8:15 to 9:45 a.m. and 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. 

Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ChicagoBotanic.org/orchid.