Thousands of orchids in ethereal displays will greet visitors to the New York Botanical Garden's 20th annual Orchid Show.

This year's edition, Orchid Show: Natural Heritage, is designed by landscape artist Lily Kwong, who took inspiration from her family's classic paintings of Chinese mountainscapes which filled her childhood home. Her vision comes alive at the show with orchid installations creating a serene and vibrant landscape within the NYBG's glorious Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

Kwong, who studied at the NYBG earlier in her career, said, "This exhibition’s design is my most autobiographical work to date, and the piece took shape through meditation and exploration of my ancestral roots stretching back generations to Shanghai. As the first woman of color to step into the role as guest designer, it felt urgent to celebrate an Asian-centered perspective in the midst of this charged and precarious moment. The piece is meant to offer a bridge of cultural understanding across the valley between us, and act as an invitation to celebrate the diverse lineages that make up our country."

She added, "In traditional Chinese culture, flowers are the carriers of rich cultural information and have been revered by scholars for representing integrity, peace, and refinement. These beautiful and often elusive flowers invoke poetry and admiration, inspire entire scientific careers, and are a critical part of our ecosystems."

The 2023 Orchid Show runs from Saturday, February 18th through April 23rd.

THE MTA AWAY DEAL: Save on your trip to the NYBG here

In addition to classes and programs about orchids and their care, also returning are the NYBG's popular "Orchid Nights" (March 18th, 25th, April 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd), where adults can enjoy a drinks and musical entertainment while marveling at the exhibit.