With the storms of winter still blowing across the country, it helps to have a little reminder of what’s coming up once the May flowers start to bloom. In the spring and summer months, it became a common occurrence in the Victorian era for families to throw formal “garden parties.” These events were held by […]

With the storms of winter still blowing across the country, it helps to have a little reminder of what’s coming up once the May flowers start to bloom. In the spring and summer months, it became a common occurrence in the Victorian era for families to throw formal “garden parties.” These events were held by upper-class women and attended by friends and family alike. Not only was it a chance for the hostess to show off her blooming gardens, but it was also an opportunity for good old-fashioned fun.
Of course, showing of one’s accomplishments in the garden to family and friends alone could only provide so much self-satisfaction. Flower shows date back just as long as garden parties, however these events offer prizes and awards, even today. These exhibitions take place across the U.S. and all over the world, perhaps most notably the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the U.K.
Take a look at some past garden parties and flower shows provided by the Library of Congress.