Santa Barbara International Orchid Show Draws Thousands of Enthusiasts

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The 77th Santa Barbara International Orchid Show attracted orchid growers and enthusiasts from across the region.

Thousands of attendees purchased tickets to view the show's "Exotic Gardens"-themed exhibits at the Earl Warren Showgrounds, where judges awarded ribbons to winning entries from various orchid societies.

One exhibit featured adoptable birds from the Santa Barbara Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary’s founder, Jamie McLeod, had taught some of the birds to respond by saying "hello."

Sunset Valley Orchids manager Jose Carlos Lopez gave a presentation on orchid care before purchasing plants from a grower in Hawaii. He plans to transport them to his greenhouse in San Diego.

"I'm going to give them lots of TLC, and I'll probably sing to them while watering," Lopez said.

Orchid show manager Olivia Sorgman expressed excitement over the event's turnout.

"We are so excited that everybody came to join us, build community, and see all the beautiful orchids," Sorgman said. "I’m not sure how we’re going to shut the doors at 5 o’clock."

Some sellers showcased orchids that survived the recent Malibu fires, while local growers and clubs were well represented.

For more information about the show, visit sborchidshow.com.