Kew’s annual orchid festival returns in 2027 for its 31st year, inviting visitors to journey deep into the extraordinary and biodiverse world of the Amazon basin.
With an extended run time from Saturday 6 February to Sunday 14 March, Orchids will see the Princess of Wales Conservatory transformed into a riot of colour. The glasshouse’s climatic zones will evoke different ecosystems within the Amazon, recognising their diversity and fragility.
Visitors can expect giant anacondas slithering through the glasshouse’s foliage alongside armies of marching ants and giant waterlilies. Elsewhere, a psychedelic rainbow will dazzle with colourful orchids, whilst sculptures of animals threatened by rainforest logging will provide a powerful reminder of what is at stake within this globally important ecosystem.
The centrepiece of this year’s display will be a large mother tree representing the interconnectedness of life within the Amazon, inspired by Kew’s cutting-edge scientific research and mission to create a thriving planet for all, powered by plants and fungi.
Jessica Francis, Botanical Horticulturist and Princess of Wales Conservatory Manager, says:
‘For Kew’s 31st orchid festival, we’re heading to the Amazon. Get ready for a riot of colour, an incredible array of orchids and amazing rainforest wildlife, all brought to life in the heart of London. It’s a celebration of the Amazon’s flora and fauna, but also a reminder of the work Kew’s horticulturists and scientists are doing to protect this incredible ecosystem.’
A horticultural display of colour, creativity and scientific discovery
Past years have seen the orchid festival highlight the biodiversity and cultures of individual countries like Cameroon, Thailand, Madagascar and most recently China. This year, the focus has shifted to highlight the diversity of ecosystems within the Amazon, which spans nine countries across South America and contains about 60% of the world’s remaining tropical rainforests.
The Amazon is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, but its nature is increasingly under pressure. Kew’s scientists and their partners internationally are working with local communities to understand and protect the plants and fungi of the Amazon, from identifying new and threatened species to understanding the ecosystems and how they are supported by the hidden diversity of fungi.
The orchid festival will bring that science to life through horticulture and storytelling, showing visitors not only the beauty of the Amazon but also its fragility.
The festival will explore the vital links between the plants seen in the glasshouse and the science taking place at Kew. It will show how identifying species aids conservation efforts, how Kew’s scientists feed into international treaties like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and how, combined, they all contribute to tackling the biodiversity crisis.
Entry to Orchids will be included in the price of general admission to the Gardens, including the £1 ticket offer for recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Legacy Benefits. However, visitors will need to book a time slot in advance. Tickets are available to pre-book online or at any gate on the day.
