On Saturday, April 27th, my husband and I eagerly set out from our home to St. Petersburg for the renowned Green Thumb Festival. This annual Arbor Day Celebration draws plant and flower enthusiasts alongside families seeking a delightful weekend activity.
Featuring over 120 garden, plant, and flower vendors, the event fosters a vibrant community gathering. Despite its excellence, the only downside we encountered was the challenge of finding parking, a clear indication of the event’s popularity. Arriving shortly after the 9:00 am opening, we found ourselves amidst a bustling crowd.
Nestled under the shade of numerous trees, the location provided a perfect setting for the array of plant booths. From sprawling nurseries offering diverse selections to specialists in orchids, bonsai trees, and succulents, there was something for every botanical taste.
Additionally, booths from the local day lily and gesneriaceae societies added to the variety. While the aisles were spacious, navigating through the throngs of visitors, accompanied by baby strollers, dogs, and wagons, proved challenging.
Nevertheless, the abundance of plant offerings was amazing. Plumeria, orchids, bromeliads, native plants, edibles, succulents, and bonsai trees adorned the displays, with prices generally reasonable.
In addition to plants, miscellaneous garden accessories such as bird baths, feeders, pots, and decorative items were available for purchase. Services like garden tool sharpening and soil assessments further enriched the experience.
My husband seized the opportunity to enhance our budding “smoothie garden” with a blackberry purchase. Despite the official start time of 9:00 am, many early birds were already departing with their plant treasures, prompting us to consider arriving even earlier next year. Vendors suggested a 6:30 am start to beat the crowds, advice we’ll likely heed for future visits.
We took lots of pictures. Let me share our day with you!
