The June bank holiday weekend is rapidly approaching which can only mean one thing – Bord Bia Bloom is back! Whether learning about artist-inspired planting schemes, Feng Shui gardening tips, attending polytunnel talks or conversations about the revival of Irish textiles, the festival programme is packed with countless opportunities to grow, taste and learn. Join Ireland’s talented garden designers, growers, food and drink producers, craftspeople, and environmentalists in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, from Thursday, May 28th to Monday, June 1st, to celebrate 20 years in Bloom. Here are our top seven things to do at the nation’s favourite festival of flowers, food, and sustainable living.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bloom
Take in the magic and beauty of Bloom’s 20 spectacular Show Gardens, explore charming designs from communities across Ireland in the Postcard Gardens, wander amongst the pretty floral displays in the Nursery Village, view the work of talented floral artists in the Botanical Hub, and check out the colourful summer planting in the OPW’s Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden. There is natural beauty around every corner at Bloom – prepare to be inspired!
Learn how to create your own show garden at home
Once you’ve picked up ideas for flexible family gardens, lush balcony spaces, and DIY-friendly designs in the Show Gardens, make a beeline for the Garden Stage, where Diarmuid Gavin and BBC’s Adam Frost are among a host of talented designers and horticulturists sharing knowledge and practical tips over the Bloom weekend.
You can also ask for personalised advice from plantspeople, garden designers, and tree specialists in Bloom’s three ‘Ask the Expert’ clinics and catch a host of interactive workshops in the Botanical Hub Demo Space. You’ll leave armed with plenty of knowledge to help you create your own Show Garden at home.
Feast on fabulous food and drink
From the special ‘A Taste of Bloom’ three course dining experience curated by chef Neven Maguire to a diverse range of cuisines served in the fleet of 50-plus food trucks, there’s something to tantalise all tastebuds at Bloom this year. Pop into the Food Village to sample and purchase Bord Bia Quality Assured ingredients from over 100 of Ireland’s top producers, enjoy a craft tipple in the Bloom Inn, and see top chefs and culinary stars – including Donal Skehan, Eva Pau, Aisling Larkin and more – on the Dunnes Stores Quality Kitchen Stage. Bring your appetite… and your shopping bags!
Nurture the natural world
Discover practical ideas for living more sustainably at Bloom’s Conservation Area and Sustainable Living Stage. Meet conservationists, naturalists, and environmentalists, and enjoy thought-provoking panel discussions hosted by journalists Jo Linehan, Caroline Hennessy, Aoife Carrigy, and Suzanne Campbell. Topics range from sustainable fashion and school lunches to building a nature-first economy.
Nourish your body and mind
In exciting news, an immersive new wellness destination is launching at Bord Bia Bloom this year. The Meaghers 360º Wellness Village is a welcoming, holistic space nestled amongst the backdrop of the beautiful trees within the Picnic Area. Don’t miss the expert talks, outdoor yoga, panel discussions, dance classes, and an on-site Wellness Hub and Drop-in Clinic. This is a place to nourish your body and mind.
Have fun with all the family
There’s plenty for kids to enjoy at Bloom this year! The Minions are back in the Show Gardens with their new character, Irene. Paddy Courtney is returning with his popular Planting Patch in the Budding Bloomers Children’s Area. Families can enjoy fun activities including willow weaving, Bubbling Botanicals with Scientific Sue, Story Time, Bitesize Biodiversity, and lots more educational adventures in the Budding Bloomers Children’s Area.
Look out also for the Agri Aware Farm and drop-in craft activities in the DCCI Irish Craft Village. Remember, two children age under 16 can enter for free with each adult ticket making Bloom a great day out for all the family. (Additional child tickets are priced €5.)
Indulge in some retail therapy
Pick up some delicious treats in the Food Village, purchase award-winning pieces of art in the Botanical and Floral Art in Bloom exhibition, browse crafts from some of Ireland’s most talented makers in the DCCI Irish Craft Village. You’ll also find plenty of inspiration for your home, garden, and lifestyle in Bloom’s lively shopping areas
No trip to Bloom is complete without a plant or two – shop a stunning selection of indoor and outdoor plants in the Nursery Village, Plant Emporium, and more. And with Bloom’s handy Plant Crèche, you can store your purchases while you enjoy the festival hands-free.
Start planning your visit
Check the event schedule, find out how to get there, see the accessibility measures at Bloom, and view the event map. Above all, don’t forget to book your tickets. Your Bloom adventure awaits!
