Poinsettia Exhibit Brightens Holiday Spirit at Botanical Gardens

The annual poinsettia exhibit has opened at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, bringing vibrant holiday colors to visitors this season. The exhibit, which features hundreds of poinsettias in a variety of colors and shapes, aims to create a warm and festive atmosphere for guests.

Shaunna Mooney, Marketing Manager at the Gardens, described the display as “absolutely beautiful,” noting that it feels like a “holiday magical scene.” The exhibit is one of the Gardens’ largest projects of the year, requiring significant effort from the horticulture team. “It takes a lot of hands, a lot of help,” Mooney explained. “We grow some of the poinsettias ourselves, while others are ordered in, so it takes a lot of different people to bring this all together and share some magical joy with the community.”

The exhibit thrives in the conservatory, where warm, dry air replicates the native climate of the poinsettias, originally from Mexico. Mooney highlighted the unique colors on display, including shades of pink, orange, and peach that visitors may not commonly find elsewhere. “Some colors you might see at a grocery store or nursery, you might not see until you come here to the poinsettia exhibit,” she stated.

This event has become a cherished tradition in Western New York. Mooney noted, “It’s a big tradition for many people. They love to come and visit every holiday season, bringing their families or a date to do something relaxing that you wouldn’t otherwise do in the winter.”

A variety of holiday-themed events accompany the exhibit this year. Among them are Poinsettias After Dark, where visitors can enjoy the display in a unique evening setting, and visits from Santa Claus. Additionally, the Gardens will host two nights of a new mini-golf experience integrated throughout the exhibit.

One exciting new offering is Bricks and Brews, an adults-only event where guests can construct a custom Lego version of the Botanical Gardens’ conservatory while enjoying drinks.

Tickets and more information about the exhibit and associated events can be found at buffalogardens.com. The exhibit promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, showcasing the beauty of the poinsettia and providing a joyful experience for all who attend.