Pacific Orchid Exposition Question - Orchid Board

estación seca · #1 01-05-2018, 01:02 PM

What is the opening night gala at the Pacific Orchid Exposition in San Francisco? Is that something mainly for the societies and vendors putting on the show?

This year the show is Friday February 23 through Sunday February 25. The opening night gala is Thursday February 22.

fishmom · #2 01-05-2018, 02:45 PM

I've never gone, but members of my society have. I put a question up on our Facebook page which is pretty active. I will let you know if I get an answer before someone helps you out here.

estación seca · #3 01-05-2018, 02:46 PM

Thank you. I'm not on Facebook.

fishmom · #4 01-05-2018, 03:02 PM

Here is the response: In the past at Fort Mason, it was open to all. Tickets i believe were around $45.00. There was no gala last year. Go to San Francisco Orchid Society's web site or their POE site & there should be details about the gala. I felt the gala was a bit overpriced.. but you get the first pick of orchids with the vendors..

It sounds like shopping is the big draw. Are you coming to California then?

estación seca · #5 01-05-2018, 03:14 PM

The site says a gala exists at 6 pm Thursday, tickets are sold through the site, and the theme is Mad Hatter Tea Party. No more info. I'm thinking of going, yes!

fishmom · #6 01-05-2018, 04:34 PM

I think judges as well as vendors are included, so you might get to schmooze with some big names. Sounds like fun.

---------- Post added at 01:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:30 PM ----------

The show last year was much diminished from its glory days at Fort Mason. The venue in Golden Gate Park is smaller, and their were many fewer displays from individuals and societies. However, there were a good number of vendors and I always find things to buy, so it's all good! You can pre-order from the list of vendors, of course, but I'm sure you know that.

AnonYMouse · #7 01-05-2018, 07:02 PM

Last year probably had the same # of vendors in a smaller space. It was too crowded for me. Looks like there are fewer vendors this year. I could have done without some vendors that were at Fort Mason, so this year might be a good mix, maybe.

I preferred Fort Mason, just because it's on the waterfront. They often had other things going on too, a good way to take a break from the show.

There are more places to eat and browse around the park if you need a break, too. Or just walk around the park itself.

estación seca · #8 01-05-2018, 09:35 PM

About 40 years ago I lived just a few blocks south of the Hall of Flowers. Seems like another life. I still miss Hana Japanese Restaurant and the Black Forest Bakery.