Phipps Conservatory extends run of annual Winter Flower Show

The Winter Flower Show: Home for the Holidays has been extended through Jan. 17 at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh.

The extension offers visitors an opportunity to view the annual show that they might have missed due to the site’s recent pandemic-related shutdown.

“We wanted to give everyone a chance to see it while the plants are still beautiful,” said Joe Reed, Phipps director of marketing and communications.

“The comforts of home are brought to life in signature Phipps fashion, with beautiful, enchanting blooms greeting guests as they wander through room after room of seasonal splendor,” according to a release. “Guests will delight at Phipps’ magical carousel floating on a glassy pond, a cozy cabin sitting snugly amidst a snowy forest of blue, purple, white and silver plants, a topiary animal display that explores winter hibernation habits, and a living room scene featuring furniture — such as armchairs, a grandfather clock, chandeliers and tree skirts — brought to life with plant materials.”

Viewing hours are 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Tickets must be reserved in advanced.

“It’s the same show people were seeing in December. There haven’t been any significant updates,” Reed said. “We did an assessment before reopening to make sure everything is still looking beautiful.”

The extension of the winter show means that the opening of the upcoming orchid and tropical bonsai show has been pushed back a few days to Jan. 23, Reed said.

Guests who are not able or comfortable with visiting the show in person can enjoy it from the comfort of home with the Winter Flower Show Virtual Video Tour, Reed said.

The tour includes a 25-minute video walk-through of every room included in this year’s show, accompanied by festive background music. An alternate version, with special commentary from CEO Richard Piacentini and Associate Director of Exhibitions and show designer Jordyn Melino, also is available.

The video is available via the Phipps website for an introductory two-week price of $4.99 for Phipps members and $9.99 for non-members, allowing unlimited streaming for that period. The video also can be rented for a 24-hour viewing window for $4.99.

For tickets or more information on the Winter Flower Show and upcoming exhibitions and programs, visit phipps.conservatory.org.

Visitors must wear masks. Those with a medical condition that prevents the wearing of a mask must make reservations by calling 412-622-6914 during normal operating hours.