The Hilo Orchid Society is holding its 68th annual show at the Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium later this month.
It will be the organization’s first regular orchid show since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
“The show will be fairly similar to past years since it’s been a little difficult getting back to normal and revamping everything,” said Karl Mendonca, Orchid Society president. “There is always the concern that things could change, so we’re managing that risk as well.”
The show will feature 10 orchid vendors and 15 other vendors that will be selling orchid-related items.
“All of our orchid vendors will have a sales booth, and a vivid display that will showcase any awards they received,” Mendonca said. “The displays will be spectacular, and there will be thousands of orchids filling the stadium.”
The displays will include exotic species and hybrids.
Another part of the show returning this year is judging by an American Orchid Society member who lives on Hawaii Island. There also will be a people’s choice award for fragrance.
“We’ll have orchids in bloom from growers, and people will be able to choose their favorite,” Mendonca said. “This is something new we’re trying out that will be very interactive for those who attend.”
The show and sale will kick off at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 28, with the Hilo Orchid Show Gala Preview Party that will be raising funds for the Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center and the Orchid Society’s agriculture student scholarship fund.
Thursday night will allow a sneak preview of the lush displays and the first chance to shop for orchids.
Tickets are $85 and may be purchased in advance from The Most Irresistible Shop, Day-Lum Rentals and the Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center.
The remainder of the orchid show and sale will take place 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, July 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 30, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, July 31.
Tickets for the main three-day event are $5 for adults and free for kids 18 and under. Discounted tickets will be available prior to the show at the Garden Exchange, Paradise Plants, Akatsuka Orchid Gardens and Hilo Coffee Mill.
“We’re so excited to be able to bring so many people in the community together to appreciate and enjoy orchids,” Mendonca said. “So many different people enjoy the event, and it’ll be great to see everyone again.”
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com