CHARLESTON, S.C. — The Charleston Parks Conservancy announces a new fall festival, Bloom Charleston, to celebrate the unveiling of Charleston's first Idea Garden at Colonial Lake with an exciting panel of international speakers, immersive horticultural experiences and engaging inspiration stations, a plant and garden book sale, art activations and more. Taking place October 17–18, 2025, this two-day celebration will spotlight the art of garden design alongside bold, forward-thinking innovation. The festival’s centerpiece will be the unveiling of the Idea Garden at Colonial Lake—three acres of beautiful newly restored public gardens set within a historic public park that are designed to inspire and empower anyone who wants to create beautiful and sustainable gardens of their own.

Set for October 17-18, Bloom Charleston welcomes attendees to experience inspiring talks from internationally renowned speakers, immersive horticultural activities, and lively programming that showcases Charleston’s public gardens and parks. The Charleston Parks Conservancy created Bloom Charleston to highlight the essential role parks play in fostering beauty, community, and environmental resilience. As stewards of 26 parks, gardens, and trails, the Conservancy is committed to inspiring a deeper appreciation for public green spaces through education, innovation, and celebration.

“Bloom Charleston is more than a festival — it’s a celebration of the past, present, and future of public gardens,” said Darlene Heater, CEO and Executive Director of Charleston Parks Conservancy. “This event reflects our vision for parks as spaces where history, creativity, and sustainability come together to inspire and engage our community and its guests.”

October 17 -- Grand Opening Garden Party from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Ticketed)

Be among the first to experience the new Idea Garden at Colonial Lake while mingling among garden luminaries. The evening will include:

• A champagne toast and special remarks from Idea Garden designer Molly Hendry
• A floral presentation by award-winning British designer Lucy Hunter
• An exclusive rare tree auction benefiting the restoration of Charleston's urban tree canopy

Tickets go on sale June 2 for $250 and include specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and an unforgettable evening filled with floral installations, music, and more.

October 18 -- Bloom Charleston from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Free)

The celebration continues with a free public festival starting with a ribbon cutting at Colonial Lake. Attendees can enjoy:

• Expert talks featuring inspirational horticultural stars, including Britain's Mr. Plant Geek, Better Homes and Gardens editor Miranda Crowell, and Molly Hendry of Roots & Ramblings Garden Design and the visionary behind the Colonial Lake Idea Garden
• Idea Garden inspiration stations and docent-led garden vignettes, including plant lists and tips and tricks for bringing inspiration from the idea garden to your home.
• The Buxton Books Garden Book Store with author signings throughout the day
• The Plants from Your Parks curated plant sale offers attendees the chance to take home plants inspired by Charleston’s parks
• The Garden Club of Charleston will release the new edition of its book, The Gardeners' Guide for the Lowcountry
• Children’s pavilion with hands-on activities for all ages
• Live music, art demonstrations and pop-up workshops in the Idea Garden throughout the day

“Bloom Charleston celebrates how thoughtful design can shape spaces that bring people together and support a more sustainable future,” said Hendry. “I can’t wait to share this exciting milestone and be a part of Bloom Charleston 2025.”

Space is limited for the Opening Night Party, so the Conservancy encourages guests to purchase tickets early and RSVP for the free public celebration at www.BloomCharleston.org.  For updates and event details, follow @bloomcharlestonsc on social media. 

About Charleston Parks Conservancy

The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching Charleston’s parks and strengthening community connections. Since 2007, the Conservancy has helped care for and enhance 26 parks, gardens, and trails in partnership with the City of Charleston. The organization secures 90% of the funding needed for park maintenance through private and corporate donations, with the city covering the remaining 10% of the costs. The Conservancy provides year-round care, focusing on seasonal plantings, revitalizations, and sustainable maintenance. In 2024 alone, the organization planted more than 46,000 plants and 1,000 trees, donated two tons of fresh produce and 1,200 flower bouquets, and advocated for the vital role of urban parks. Notable projects include Colonial Lake, the Rose Pavilion at Hampton Park, Moultrie Playground, St. Julian Devine Community Center and Park, Magnolia Park and Community Garden, Medway Park and Community Garden, and Corrine Jones Community Garden. For more information, visit www.charlestonparksconservancy.org.