Orchid festival: a Peruvian oasis at Kew Gardens

As winter draws to a close, London begins to bloom. From February 1 to March 2, 2025, Kew Gardens will host its 29th annual Orchid Festival, dedicated to the rich biodiversity of Peru. A celebration of colour and nature, the festival will showcase rare orchids, intricate floral displays, and immersive experiences. Afisha.London magazine explores what to expect from this year’s event.

The festival invites guests to explore a South American oasis. Under the glass dome of the Princess of Wales Conservatory, visitors will discover unique floral compositions inspired by the landscapes of the Andes, the tropical forests of the Amazon, and the mysterious deserts of Latin America.

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At the centre of the Conservatory, a vibrant floral composition inspired by Lake Titicaca will unfold, while nearby, among the flowers, installations of Peruvian animals — Andean flamingos, alpacas, and exotic birds — will come to life. A dazzling botanical spectacle awaits, with a stunning variety of orchids, bromeliads, and other exotic plants. Visitors can also admire the floral sculptures, inspired by Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, and look up to see a starry night sky recreated with glowing allium blooms.

The festival is not only a feast of colours but also an engaging journey into the worlds of science and art. This year, Kew Gardens highlights the importance of nature preservation and presents research by its scientists, exploring Peruvian plants and their impact on the future of agriculture. Visitors will learn about conservation programs for rare plant species, the role of orchids in attracting pollinators, and innovative methods to combat climate change in the Andes.

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Art lovers will be delighted by exhibitions featuring works by renowned Peruvian photographer Mariano Vivanco and artist Gisella Stapleton. Their creations, filled with the cultural spirit of their homeland, will enrich the festival’s atmosphere. Additionally, vibrant murals inspired by traditional Peruvian motifs have been specially created for the event.

Photo: Afisha.London

On Fridays and Saturdays, from February 7 to 22, the festival will host Orchids: After Hours, a true celebration of Peruvian culture featuring live music from Manzana Tropical and Kausary, dance performances, and cocktails made with traditional Peruvian pisco. Those eager to learn more about the work of Kew’s scientists will have the chance to engage with researchers returning from expeditions to Peru.

This winter, Kew Gardens once again proves that art, science, and nature can unite to create an unforgettable experience. The magic of Peru awaits you in the heart of London!

• The Orchid Festival runs from February 1 to March 2, 2025;
• This is the first time the festival is dedicated to Peru;
• The festival’s centrepiece includes living sculptures of Andean flamingos, alpacas, and other animals, crafted from flowers;
• A special area will showcase unique Peruvian orchid fragrances for visitors to experience;
• The exhibition features works by renowned photographer Mariano Vivanco and artist Gisella Stapleton;
• More information and tickets here.

Cover photo: Afisha.London 

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