A gorgeous floral spectacle has once again taken over Chelsea for London’s largest free flower festival, aptly named Chelsea in Bloom. The annual event, which coincides with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, offers an accessible alternative for those who want to celebrate the conclusion of spring without that hefty price tag.
This year’s theme is Flowers in Fashion, celebrating the swanky neighbourhood’s rich history as a fashion hub in the capital. Chelsea in Bloom is itself celebrating its twentieth year, taking this milestone anniversary in stride with their fiercest iteration yet. Over 120 local businesses will adorn their storefronts with stunning (and don’t forget free) floral displays inspired by iconic fashion moments and legendary designers.
You can expect an explosion of creativity as the streets of Chelsea become a living runway of stunning flower installations.
Chelsea in Bloom: Flowers in Fashion
Chelsea in Bloom is more than just a flower festival; it’s a true celebration of spring, blooms, and blossoms, as well as the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. The local businesses—including cafés, shops, hotels, and beyond – display fabulous installations, and compete against each other, making it a true local affair of fun and flowers.
The dazzling displays will be judged by a panel of experts, including RHS judges and tastemakers from the fashion world. From the swinging sixties to bold punk rebellion, expect to see Chelsea’s fashionable past be reimagined in petals, foliage, and art.
There’s even a People’s Champion Award, allowing the public to vote for their favourite displays. So, be sure to stop by Chelsea to explore and vote for the showstoppers!
Beyond the displays, Chelsea in Bloom also boasts an array of other events and activities designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages. Sloane Square serves as the heart of the event, where there are usually walking tours as well as rickshaw rides to help you explore every corner of the festival.
This year, Chelsea in Bloom has partnered with two special charities. In support of the British Fashion Council Foundation, the event now promotes the growth and success of the UK fashion industry through education, mentoring and talent development. You can pledge donations throughout the week and purchase exclusive event t-shirts, with all profits going to the charity.
The floral festival is also working with The Confetti Club for a third year. The charity grants the show’s leftover fresh petals another life and turns them into confetti. This is then sold to raise funds for Cancer Research UK—which sounds absolutely lovely, doesn’t it?
Chelsea in Bloom is running from May 19 until May 25. So, grab your comfiest walking shoes and get the camera ready to snap some pics for the ‘gram. Florals and fashion are colliding in Chelsea for this unmissable springtime celebration. For more information, click here.