Enjoy a break from winter to see hundreds of tropical orchids creatively displayed in the warm tropical exhibition area.

This year’s festive display theme is Brazilian Carnival, featuring floral “floats,” each inspired by a different tropical bird, using orchids and other plants to evoke the colors and textures of vibrant tropical plumage. The arrangements will float above the ponds, and reflect off the surface of the water below. The display features a variety of unique and showy species orchids with unique colors and shapes.

The following orchid-related events are scheduled during the display:

An Evening with Orchids, February 9, 5-8 pm - Celebrate the annual orchid display with wine, chocolate, and light appetizers. This event is for ages 21 and older, and will include a cash bar; admission fees are $30 for non-members, and $25 for members. Pre-registration is encouraged at https://nicholasconservatory.com/activities.

Orchid Plant Sale - Anything Orchids from Frankfort, Illinois will have a variety of beautiful and unique plants available for purchase Saturday and Sunday, February 10 and 11, from 10 am until 3 pm. (www.anythingorchids.com)

An Orchids for Beginners workshop will be held Saturday, February 17, 1-2 pm. Those who are either new to orchids or have questions about caring for them will learn the basics with resident orchid enthusiast and volunteer Dave Picken. The registration fee of $12 for non-members (free for members) includes admission to the Conservatory’s orchid display. Due to limited capacity, pre-registration is encouraged at https://nicholasconservatory.com/activities or at 815-987-8858.