Let’s be honest—some summer events just wouldn’t feel right without flowers stealing the show. From backyard brunches to sunset weddings, there are moments when the blooms are so gorgeous, they practically become guests of honor. And then there are the flowers that don’t just look good—they bring a scent so dreamy, you’ll wish you could bottle it.
Whether you’re planning a garden party, heading to a festival, or just hosting friends on the patio, these are the events where flowers take center stage—and the stunning varieties that turn any gathering into a full sensory experience. Think lush table arrangements that look like they were styled by a florist in Provence, wildflower crowns that are selfie magnets, and floral installations that guests won’t stop talking about.
In this list, you’ll find 9 summer celebrations where flowers are the main attraction, plus 8 incredible blooms that smell so divine, they deserve their own RSVP. Warning: once you start planning your events around these flowers, there’s no going back.
Lavender Fields Festival
In the heart of summer, fields of lavender sway in rhythm with the gentle breeze at this annual festival. The air is a tapestry of purple hues and calming scents, inviting visitors into a world of relaxation and beauty. Picture a place where the fragrance is so soothing, it feels like therapy.
Here, workshops on lavender crafts and essential oil creations encourage participants to immerse themselves in the plant’s versatility. For those with a penchant for photography, the sea of violet offers a perfect backdrop. A day spent here feels like a retreat from the ordinary.
Search for the term “Lavender Fields Festival” and you’ll uncover visuals that encapsulate the serene essence of this event.
Cherry Blossom Festival
In the heart of Japan, the Cherry Blossom Festival captures the essence of spring with its delicate sakura blooms. A symbol of renewal, these pink flowers transform landscapes into dreamy wonderlands. Visitors gather under the trees for hanami, a tradition of picnicking beneath the blossoms. The sight of petals raining softly creates a magical atmosphere, enchanting both locals and tourists alike. It’s a time for reflection, celebration, and appreciating the ephemeral beauty of nature. Each blossom tells a story of life’s fleeting moments, making this festival a cherished cultural event.
Dutch Tulip Season
Every spring, the Netherlands transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors during Dutch Tulip Season. Endless fields of tulips bloom, attracting flower enthusiasts from around the world. The vibrant hues of red, yellow, and purple paint the landscape, offering a stunning visual feast. This floral spectacle reaches its peak at Keukenhof Gardens, where millions of tulips are displayed in meticulously curated gardens. The season not only celebrates the beauty of tulips but also the rich horticultural heritage of the Netherlands, making it a must-visit for anyone captivated by flowers.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the epitome of floral artistry and gardening excellence. Held annually in London, it showcases the finest in horticulture with stunning garden designs and innovative floral displays. Visitors are treated to a visual extravaganza, with each garden telling a unique story through its design and plant selection. This event not only highlights the creativity of garden designers but also sets the trends for the gardening world. It’s a celebration of beauty and ingenuity, where every flower has its moment to shine.
Rose Parade
Every New Year in Pasadena, California, the Rose Parade offers a dazzling display of floral creativity. Elaborate floats covered in roses and other blooms parade through the streets, captivating audiences with their artistry. This event, part of the Tournament of Roses, celebrates the beauty and diversity of flowers. It’s a tradition that has been enchanting visitors for over a century, with each float telling its own story through intricate designs. As the scent of roses fills the air, the parade becomes a sensory delight, marking the beginning of the year with floral grandeur.
Genzano Infiorata
In the quaint town of Genzano, Italy, the Infiorata is a stunning celebration of art and nature. Streets are transformed into colorful carpets made entirely of flower petals. This age-old tradition combines religious devotion with artistic expression, as intricate designs depict religious scenes and motifs. The craftsmanship involved in creating these floral masterpieces is awe-inspiring, drawing visitors from far and wide. As you walk along these fragrant paths, you’re transported into a world where art and nature collide in perfect harmony.
Sunflower Maze Adventure
Imagine wandering through towering sunflowers, their golden faces turned toward the sun. In regions like Kansas, sunflower mazes offer a unique way to experience these cheerful blooms. Visitors meander through labyrinths of sunflowers, enjoying the beauty and tranquility they provide. Each twist and turn reveals new perspectives and photo opportunities. It’s an ideal family outing, where children can laugh and explore amidst nature’s golden giants. The maze becomes a canvas of joy, capturing the essence of summer in a field of sunlit splendor.
Singapore Garden Festival
The Singapore Garden Festival is a horticultural spectacle that transforms the city into a playground of floral imagination. Featuring world-class garden and floral designs, it attracts landscape architects and garden enthusiasts globally. This festival is a canvas for creativity, showcasing exotic plants and innovative landscaping. Held in the bustling city, it creates a serene oasis amidst urban life, blending nature with modernity. Visitors are inspired by the creativity on display, as each garden tells a unique narrative through its design and plant selection.
California Poppy Festival
In the heart of California, the Poppy Festival celebrates the state’s iconic flower, the California poppy. Hills and fields burst into vibrant orange as poppies bloom, creating a stunning natural spectacle. This festival highlights the beauty and resilience of these hardy flowers, drawing nature lovers and photographers alike. It’s a time to embrace the outdoors, with activities that celebrate the region’s natural wonders. The poppy, a symbol of hope and renewal, becomes a beacon of the season’s beauty, inviting all to revel in its radiant charm.
Taipei Lotus Festival
In Taipei, the Lotus Festival is a serene celebration of one of nature’s most elegant flowers. Held at the Taipei Botanical Garden, it showcases the beauty and symbolism of lotus blooms. These flowers, rising gracefully from muddy waters, symbolize purity and enlightenment. Visitors wander through lush gardens, taking in the peaceful ambiance and delicate fragrance. The festival offers a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, inviting guests to reflect and find peace amidst the blossoms. It’s a contemplative experience, where nature’s beauty inspires tranquility.
Holland’s Dahlia Days
Holland’s Dahlia Days transform the Dutch landscape into a vibrant tapestry of color. Dahlias, with their intricate blooms and bold colors, captivate visitors during this event. Fields abound with these stunning flowers, drawing photographers and flower lovers to capture their beauty. Each dahlia tells a story of nature’s artistry, showcasing a range of colors and forms. This celebration not only highlights Holland’s horticultural prowess but also invites all to witness the splendor of dahlias in full bloom, a must-see floral spectacle.
Bavarian Edelweiss Festival
Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the Edelweiss Festival celebrates the iconic alpine flower, edelweiss. This event combines cultural traditions with the natural beauty of the region. Edelweiss, synonymous with alpine purity, draws visitors to explore its rugged beauty. Traditional music, dance, and attire add a festive touch, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The festival is a tribute to both the flower and the alpine culture, offering a glimpse into the heart of Bavaria. It’s a unique blend of nature and tradition, where each blossom tells a tale of mountain resilience.
Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
Held in the regal setting of Hampton Court Palace, this flower show is a grand celebration of horticulture. The palace gardens come alive with breathtaking floral displays and innovative garden designs. It’s a horticultural paradise where history and nature intertwine, offering visitors a glimpse into the beauty of garden artistry. The show features everything from traditional gardens to contemporary designs, each with its unique flair. It’s a celebration of gardening excellence, where every flower tells a story of creativity and passion.
Floriade Expo
The Floriade Expo is a global horticultural event that showcases innovative gardening and sustainable practices. Held every decade, this expo brings together the best in horticulture, with a focus on future-oriented designs. Visitors explore expansive gardens that highlight the diversity of plant life and the creativity of landscape architects. It’s a celebration of nature’s beauty and human ingenuity, offering a vision of how gardens can evolve. Each display is a testament to the harmonious relationship between nature and technology, inspiring future generations of garden enthusiasts.
Naivasha Hortifair
Located in the heart of Kenya, the Naivasha Hortifair is a vibrant celebration of African horticulture. This event showcases the region’s rich biodiversity and innovative farming techniques. Visitors are treated to an array of exotic flowers and plants, each uniquely adapted to the African climate. It’s an opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of African flora, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. The Hortifair offers a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, inviting all to experience the wonders of African horticulture.
Mimosa Festival
In the charming coastal town of Mandelieu-La Napoule, France, the Mimosa Festival celebrates the fragrant mimosa blooms. These golden flowers infuse the air with a sweet scent, heralding the arrival of spring. The festival features parades, dances, and community events, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. It’s a celebration of nature’s beauty and community spirit, drawing visitors to revel in the joyful ambiance. The mimosa, with its vibrant color and fragrance, becomes a symbol of renewal and the coming of warmer days.
Australian Wildflower Show
The Australian Wildflower Show is a celebration of the continent’s unique floral biodiversity. Held in various locations, this event highlights the diversity and beauty of Australian wildflowers. Visitors explore vibrant landscapes filled with blooms native to Australia, each with its distinct charm. It’s a journey through the country’s natural heritage, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of its flora. The show invites all to appreciate the subtle beauty of wildflowers, each telling a story of adaptation and survival in the Australian wilderness.