Annual orchid show brings vivid color to Chicago winter

The Chicago Botanic Garden's 12th annual Orchid Show opens with more than 10,000 orchids in warmed greenhouses and a 'Feelin' Groovy' 1970s theme.

A soft layer of snow covers the Chicago Botanic Garden while the air outside remains chilly and gray. Inside the garden's greenhouses, more than 10,000 orchids have been arranged for the 12th annual Orchid Show, which opens Saturday. This year's theme is "Feelin' Groovy," and several installations recall the 1970s with playful displays including a yellow Volkswagen Beetle filled with orchids. Staff prepared the exhibits and highlighted both common and rare species on display. Event details: - More than 10,000 orchids are on display across the garden's greenhouses. - This is the 12th annual Orchid Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. - The show's theme is "Feelin' Groovy," featuring 1970s-inspired installations such as a yellow Volkswagen Beetle filled with orchids. - The Angraecum sesquipedale, also known as Darwin's orchid, is on display in the west gallery. - Vanda orchids with large, dangling roots are showcased in the south greenhouse; these epiphytic orchids grow on trees rather than in soil. - The show is expected to draw about 85,000 visitors this year. Summary: The indoor exhibition brings vivid plants and themed displays at a time when many visitors are seeking color during winter. The show opens Saturday and is expected to draw about 85,000 visitors.