2011 Chicago Flower & Garden Show Returns to Navy Pier on March 5-13

CHICAGO, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2011 Chicago Flower & Garden Show, celebrating its 17th year as the Midwest's iconic horticulture and landscape showcase, will again green the shores of Lake Michigan when it returns to Navy Pier on Chicago's lakefront from Saturday, March 5, through Sunday, March 13.

Designed to inspire, educate and motivate, visitors will be treated to the best of landscape design and see the latest in sustainable and green products. Themed "The Sport of Gardening: Fields of Dreams," the show's 30-plus gardens will again spotlight top Midwest landscapers, growers and garden designers.

"Flower and garden shows always have a wow factor," says Tony Abruscato, show director. "Our mission is to mix exciting visuals with realistic solutions for backyards, patios and balconies."

In addition to being able to talk to industry professionals, this year's show will feature a new grid-patterned floor plan where, says Abruscato, visitors are guaranteed to discover something new at every turn.

Other show highlights include:

• More than 100 hands-on demonstrations and classes including container gardening workshops and free educational seminars with experts offering practical insights on growing techniques, landscaping and more.
• The popular "Marketplace" where vendors showcase gardening, landscaping and horticulture products, including green and sustainable products and services.
• Daily "Garden Gourmet" culinary demonstrations featuring more than 30 top chefs.
• An exhibit showcasing new and forthcoming plant varieties.
• "Horticulture Competitions" where individuals can demonstrate their passion for gardening in such categories as houseplants, photography and window boxes.
• Another highlight is the wildly popular Children's Activity Garden.

Navy Pier is located at 600 E. Grand Avenue. The Midwest's largest tourist destination, it features more than 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants and other attractions. Easily reached by mass transit, there will also be special discounted parking at Navy Pier for show visitors.

Show hours are: Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Adult admission is $15 weekdays; $17 weekends. Admission for children ages 4-12 is $5. Discounts for groups of 15 or more are also available. To purchase tickets in advance or more information, visit www.chicagoflower.com or call 773.435.1250.

SOURCE 2011 Chicago Flower & Garden Show