PARTY AMONG THE PETALS
A blooming backdrop sets the stage for flower festivals across the country.
WASHINGTON STATE APPLE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Get ready for a lively time in and around Memorial Park in Wenatchee, Washington, April 25-May8. You'll find a carnival, an arts and crafts show, a car show and more during this festival of spring. A youth parade with floats and costumes, floral art prints, a food fair (don't miss the funnel cakes), live music, the Apple Blossom Run and the Stemilt Grand Parade keep visitors entertained through the events. appleblossom.org
SWAN LAKE IRIS FESTIVAL
Stroll through more the 120 varieties of Japanese irises and other blooms during one of South Carolina's oldest annual festivals, held on Memorial Day weekend at Swan Lake Irsis Gadens in Sumter. More than 200 vendors, children's activities, a car show, live music and food stalls fill the park's 150 acres with color and sound. A bird-watcher's paradise, Swan Lake is the only public park in the U.S. that is home to all eight species of swans. sumtersc.gov/irisfestival
CAPE COD HYDRANGEA FESTIVAL
Plan now to bask in the pastel beauty of pink, blue and white hydrangeas on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, July 8-17. Daily tours of horticulture private gardens, workshops, classes on pruning and hydrangea varieties, and demonstrations by local artists are just a few of the immersive activities that flower lovers can enjoy. Watch for special promotions from local nurseries. capecodchamber.org/ events