A friend first introduced me to the Pacific Orchid Exposition back in 2008. Since then, saving up and attending has become a personal annual tradition. Now in its 65th year, the newly named Pacific Orchid and Garden Exposition is moving to the San Francisco County Fair Building (Hall of Flowers), February 24-26, 2017.

If you’re attending for the first time, besides wearing comfortable shoes, here are a few additional tips to make your experience an enjoyable one.

2010 Pacific Orchid Exposition. Image: Denisha DeLane

Sight

Charge your cellphone and/or take a camera. You’ll enjoy a variety of orchids, some for the very first time. Pace yourself while strolling throughout the exposition hall, and be sure to take in this years ribbon and trophie winners in each category.

Smell

Some orchids are as beautiful as they are fragrant. Make it a point to seek out the days fragrant and  hybrids species. Oncidium orchids are popular, ask for the “Chocolate Orchid”

Taste

Remember I said pace yourself, right? Check in your orchid purchases in the Plant Hotel while enjoying the on-site food vendors. Be sure to visit the Grilled Cheese station!

Touch

While taking a trip around the Hall of Flowers, be sure to see the Orchid Doctor. Orchids are a very rewarding flower (Sam, that has stuck with me forever!), but perhaps you need some advice on how care for an maintain them at home or on the job. You’ll have a chance to touch various bark, potting soil, and more. The Orchid Doctors are great – let them help you!

I’ll miss Fort Mason, and walking alongside the San Francisco Bay, but look forward to the sights and sounds of the SF County Fair Building.  I’m looking forward to the garden expansion, as well as some familiar faces.

Happy 65!