When talking about festivals, the first associations which arise in our mind are loud music, crowds of people and a variety of drinks. It’s obvious because most of these activities are designed for driving sensations. However, there are other ways to have fun with friends or family. For example, the well-known London flower festival. The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most beautiful and amazing events in the world. The festival has an interesting history and is attended by the Royal Family for many years. Learn more at londonski.
Festival traditions that have survived through many years
The history of the flower exhibition known as the Chelsea Flower Show began in 1912 when it was first held in Chelsea. It was supported by the Royal Horticultural Society, and later, turned into the famous annual flower festival of London. However, the tradition of organising such an event dates back to 1833. At that time, the society held small shows for connoisseurs of botany on its own territory. The first major exhibition was organised in Kensington Gardens in 1862. The Great Spring Show took place there for 26 years in a row. The event became very popular, but its location turned out to be inconvenient for visitors. It was difficult for a big number of people to get there. So, it was decided to relocate it closer to the city centre. Thus, the format of the show and its location were changed several times.
The Chelsea Flower Show was officially established in 1912 and the Royal Hospital Chelsea has become a permanent venue for the festival. The further fate of the event was full of challenges and restorations, as well as deprivations and upheavals. The organisers faced the first challenges during the First World War. From 1914 to 1916 the exhibition took place somehow, but the years 1917-1918 became devastating. It took several post-war years for the final recovery. However, in the 1920s, visitors returned to the wonderful blooming world. After the restoration, the collection of unique plants expanded and the event became even more popular. During the Second World War, the festival was cancelled because the hospital building and its grounds were used as a location for an anti-aircraft gun. That war left the most negative mark on the history of the event. The show could be even closed for good. But despite the damaged plant fund and workers’ exhaustion, the festival was held again in 1947. Its further challenges were only related to the large number of people willing to attend the event and the insufficient number of tickets.
The flourishing atmosphere of the event
The Chelsea Flower Show is known for its unique atmosphere. In this flower paradise, you can find the most unique types of plants from different parts of the world. In 2005, the duration of the spring festival was increased from four to five days.
The festival presents unique examples of landscape art, new species of plants, original developments of garden decor and incredible innovative solutions for landscape design. The most famous designers from all over the world come here to present their work and look at other masterpieces. Every year, the show is attended by representatives of the Royal Family as well as many Londoners and guests of the city. It is better to take care of tickets in advance because they are sold out very quickly. The territory of the event is huge, so you can endlessly wander along the paths, find a romantic cosy place or have fun with your family.