Orchids Are in Full Bloom as "East Meets West"

Online, December 11, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The Pacific Orchid Exposition is the largest orchid show in the United States, and on February 21st-24th, the event will return to San Francisco to showcase over 150,000 unique orchids from across the globe.

This year the theme for the 61st annual event is "East Meets West", which will be reflected in the displays and exhibits in the show.

Attendees will be immersed in Eastern culture from the moment they walk into Fort Mason Center and view the elaborate front entrance display, lavishly adorned with traditional Taiwanese lanterns. These beautiful decorations will illuminate the space and are designed remind attendees of the global celebration of orchids.

Throughout the weekend there are docent tours, horticultural demonstrations, a silent auction and the chance to troubleshoot Orchid care issues with the Orchid Doctor.

The event opens with the Gala Benefit Preview on February 21st, giving true orchid enthusiasts and collectors the first chance to purchase their favorite plants before the show opens to the general public. The Gala Benefit Preview night also features live music, a silent auction, delicious hors d'oeuvres, and wine tasting from some of Northern California's most premiere wineries.

The Pacific Orchid Exposition is hosted by the non-profit San Francisco Orchid Society and serves as the organization's largest fundraiser.

WHO: The San Francisco Orchid Society
WHAT: 61st Annual Pacific Orchid Exposition, "East Meets West"
WHERE: Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion, San Francisco CA
WHEN: February 21-24, 2013

HOURS: Thursday, February 21: Gala Benefit Preview, 6:30-10:00 pm
Friday, February 22: 10 am - 6 pm
Saturday, February 23: 9 am - 6 pm
Sunday, February 24: 10 am - 5 pm

COST: Gala Benefit: $40 online/$45 at door (includes wine glass and tastings); General Admission: $13 online/$15 at door; Seniors (65+): $10 online/$12 at door; Children 16 and under accompanied by an adult are free, except for Preview night; Weekend Pass: $55 Gala plus unlimited show access to regular show (excludes special events)

INFO: E-mail [email protected] or visit www.orchidsanfrancisco.org
PRESS: Contact Frances Larose or Liz Rosinski at 650-548-6700 or email [email protected]