Although London’s festival season is a while off, Kew Gardens is stepping in earlier with a festival of their own. Prettier than All Points East, more fragrant than Field Day, Kew’s annual Orchid Festival brings even more colour to an already colourful slice of London, running from February 4 – March 5, 2023.

As in previous years, the 2022 Orchid Festival takes inspiration from overseas. Previous displays paid homage to countries including Brazil, India, Thailand, Colombia, Indonesia, and last years dedication to Costa Rica.

This year, Cameroon gets the Kew Gardens treatment — marking the first time Kew’s festival celebrates an African country, which just so happens to be home to some of the rarest orchids on the planet. The eye-catching plants will fill every corner of the Princess of Wales Conservatory, which will represent 10 different climatic zones.

Kew’s Cameroon theme will have vistors bowled over by “towering giraffe sculptures and a troop of gorillas, alongside magnificent roaring lions and wallowing hippo arrangements, highlighting the incredible biodiversity and awe-inspiring wildlife of this West African nation”.

Plus, you’ll be treated to artwork curated by art critic and historian Christine Eyene, who is putting on a photography exhibition from the Bikoka Art Project. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for the next generation of creatives in Lolodorf, Cameroon.

And if that wasn’t enough, visitors can even experience a taste of Cameroonian dishes thanks to Carine Ottou. The esteemed chef will be creating a selection of new plates for Kew’s café and restaurant, showing off beautiful cookery with fresh ingredients and spices on the guest menu.

The Orchid Festival is set to be a delight for the senses whenever you head along – and remember, what’s good for the ‘gram is good for the soul!

The Orchid Festival runs between February 4 and March 5, 2022. Kew Gardens can be found in Richmond, TW9 3AB, and the nearest station is Kew Gardens. Tickets are available here. 

Also published on Medium.