In the dead of winter, you can always count on New York City to deliver an indoor exhibit that transports you to a verdant landscape, even if just for an hour or so. Like Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree at the Park Avenue Armory.
In a similar vein, last weekend, I headed to the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx for an Orchid Night. It’s that time of year: the 2025 version of the annual Orchid Show is live, and the theme this year is “Mexican Modernism.” The floral displays are a homage to the designs of Mexican modernist architect Luis Barragán.
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
I never miss the Orchid Show – I’ve probably been to the last 15 of them, give or take. And I must say, I really like this one. I’m always skeptical of a flower show with the theme of a specific country, as they usually feel like extended advertisements from the tourism bureau of whichever nation is taking its turn in the spotlight (looking at you, Singapore). Not this time, though. This show exceeded my expectations. Perhaps because this time, I went at twilight.
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
Sure, the main lure is the dance party. As the NYBG website promises, guests will experience: “Mexican Cumbia music, with cumbia sonidera dance parties featuring a DJ, professional dancers, and a celebration of traditional tracks and modern influences that create an immersive dance experience.”
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
As a solo visitor, I decided not to hit the dance floor. Instead, I got lost in the beauty of the glass-domed Enid Haupt Conservatory at dusk. The colors of this show are tropical, hot and vibrant: orange, purple and bright pink, predominately, with some sapphire blue tossed in as a pop color.
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
On a cold winter night with traces of snow still on the ground, this was like a mini-break. A much-needed mini-break.
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
There are several more of these Orchid Nights on the schedule. They’re on almost every Saturday night – and some Fridays, too – through April 2025. Get your tickets here – these actually sell out, so don’t wait. You’ve got to be 21 years old or older, as there are lots of cocktail, wine and beer options on hand.
© Pamela Thomas-Graham, 2025
Have a great time. And definitely bring your camera.
