Spring Showcase: Flower and Garden Festival returns to Farmville
Published 12:06 am Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Photo by Ted Hodges
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By the beginning of May, flowers are in full bloom around Farmville. In many gardens, you’re also starting to see the first real growth. So what better time to celebrate the growing season? That’s what’s coming on Saturday, May 3, as Farmville will hold its second annual Flower & Garden Festival.
Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., it will take place at Riverside Park, located at 517 N. Main Street. Organized by the Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce, the event is a must for flower lovers, gardening enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day outdoors. The event is free to attend and open to all ages.
The 2025 Farmville Virginia Flower and Garden Festival is sponsored by Green Front Furniture, Farmville NOW by WFLO, and Benchmark Community Bank.
A celebration of nature and community
The Farmville Flower and Garden Festival is more than just a marketplace for plants and flowers; it’s a full celebration of horticulture, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you have a green thumb or simply appreciate the beauty of blooming flowers, this festival has something for everyone.
“The Farmville Flower and Garden Festival started as a way to celebrate the beauty of spring in Farmville and the surrounding area while bringing together small agriculture, local businesses, and the community,” said Anne Tyler Paulek. She serves as executive director at the Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Now in its second year, the festival has grown into a highly anticipated event that highlights Farmville as a destination for flower and garden lovers, families, and local businesses.”
Do you have questions about why your garden is growing in a certain way? Or maybe there’s a specific type of plant you’ve always wanted to grow yourself, but didn’t know how. There will be plenty of gardeners on hand to have conversations with. Or if you’re just hunting either supplies or something to brighten up your patch, that’s available too. From colorful perennials to unique succulents, attendees can find everything they need to bring color to their gardens.
More about Flower & Garden Festival
The festival isn’t just about plants—it’s about celebrating springtime with exciting events and activities. One of the most anticipated attractions is the Kentucky Derby Hat Contest. Since the festival coincides with the weekend of the Kentucky Derby, attendees are encouraged to wear their most creative, elegant, and over-the-top Derby hats. To enhance the Derby theme, festival-goers can also enjoy mint julep cocktails.
For families, the festival includes a Kid Zone, packed with engaging activities for children. From face painting to hands-on gardening workshops, young attendees will have plenty of ways to have fun. The festival also boasts a selection of nature and gardening crafts, allowing visitors to take home handmade decorations, pottery, and garden-inspired art.
No festival is complete without delicious eats, and the 2025 Farmville Flower and Garden Festival will not disappoint. A variety of food trucks will be on-site, serving everything from classic festival snacks to gourmet treats. Visitors can grab a bite and enjoy live music performances.
In addition to the floral displays, the event provides a great opportunity to explore Downtown Farmville’s charming, locally-owned shops.
Supporting the community
Beyond its celebration of springtime beauty, the Farmville Flower and Garden Festival serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the event help fund the Farmville Chamber of Commerce, which supports local businesses and non-profit organizations. By attending, visitors not only enjoy a fantastic day out but also contribute to the growth and future of the community.
Planning an event such as the Flower and Garden Festival is no easy feat.
“Bringing the Farmville Flower and Garden Festival to life takes months of planning and coordinating,” Paulek explained. “The Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Fundraising Committee, led by Michelle Walters of Island Glow, plays a key role in making it all happen. From securing a wide variety of vendors and coordinating live entertainment to promoting the event and organizing volunteers, every detail is considered to create a wonderful experience for both attendees and vendors. We are excited to showcase the beauty, talent, and charm of Farmville and the surrounding region, welcoming both visitors and locals to celebrate with us!”
Can I get involved with Flower & Garden Festival?
And if you want to do more than just shop or ask questions, there are still ways to help the festival, even in the weeks leading up to it. Paulek said organizers will still welcome sponsors and vendors alike.
“There are many ways to be part of the festival. Vendors and local businesses can set up booths, volunteers can help on the day of the event, and sponsors can support the festival while gaining exposure,” Paulek said. “Of course, the easiest way to get involved is to attend and enjoy the festival!”
Contact farmvilleflowergardenfestival@gmail.com for more details.
Editor’s Note: Kristi Sellers wrote this story for the Farmville Herald.