The Pacific Orchid Exposition and the Golden Gate Bridge: Where Horticulture meets Architecture

Nov. 8, 2011 - PRLog -- It isn’t every year that the largest orchid exhibition in the US shares an important anniversary with one of the most famous works of architecture; but, 2012 is one such year.

On February 23-26, 2012, the San Francisco Orchid Society’s 60th annual Pacific Orchid Exposition will coincide with the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge. The festivities will combine the worlds of horticulture and architecture to form a celebration that will not be forgotten.

Before the year 1937 the only way to cross the strait known as the “Golden Gate” was by ferry. The enormous and controversial project was taken on by architect Joseph B. Strauss, who also sought help from architect Irving Morrow, who was responsible for the famous suspension design of the bridge, and designer Leon Moisseiff, who we all have to thank for that unmistakable pop of color that stretches across the bay.

The orange color of the Bridge was chosen to help the bridge stand out from its dense bed of fog and also to set the structure apart from other works of architecture around the world. Now, the “International Orange” color has become synonymous with the city of San Francisco.  

The Golden Gate Bridge was finally finished in 1937, measuring an astounding 230 meters in height and 1,970 meters in length. The week-long bridge opening celebrations began on May 27, with 200,000 people crossing the bridge by foot before vehicles were even allowed to cross. Mayor Angelo Rossi was the first to cross the bridge by vehicle, and the following day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signaled the opening of the bridge to public traffic by pushing a button from his office in Washington, D.C.

The San Francisco Orchid Society is excited to celebrate the 75th anniversary of this architectural masterpiece, and the event is sure to be colorful, as both the Bridge and the orchids have become known for their vibrant colors and beauty.  

The Pacific Orchid Exposition is the largest orchid show in the country and is aptly named for the extraordinary, lush displays of organic beauty that are showcased every year.  The event boasts more than 150,000 orchid flowers from all over the world and offers educational exhibits from local, national and international orchid growers. Because of its diverse microclimate, the Bay Area is widely acknowledged as one of the best orchid growing regions and is home to an array of exotic species.  

Each day, docent tours and cultivation tips are given to visitors as they peruse the chromatic wonderland of orchids.  Professional and amateur growers, as well as orchid societies, will be displaying their unique orchids and rare hybrids, allowing any nature lover the chance to purchase a one-of-a-kind treasure

The event opens on Thursday, February 23th with the highly anticipated Gala Benefit Preview night, which offers wine tasting from some of the Bay Area’s premiere wineries. The evening includes live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and a fabulous silent auction.  

The San Francisco Orchid Society salutes the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and encourages everyone to come out and take part in this celebration of two great San Francisco traditions.


WHO:      The San Francisco Orchid Society
WHAT:   60th Annual Pacific Orchid Exposition Salutes the 75th Anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge
WHERE:   Fort Mason Center, San Francisco CA
WHEN:   February 23-26, 2012
HOURS:   Thursday, February 23:   Gala Benefit Preview, 6:30 – 10:00 pm
   Friday, February 24:   10 am - 6 pm
   Saturday, February 25:    9 am - 6 pm
   Sunday, February 26:   10 am - 5 pm
COST:      Gala Benefit: $40 online/$45 at door (includes wine glass and tastings);
General Admission: $13 online/$15 at door; Seniors (65+): $10 online/$12 at door;
      Children 12 and under are free (except for Preview night);
      Weekend Pass: $55 Gala plus unlimited show access to regular show (excludes special events)
INFO:      E-mail info@orchidsanfrancisco.org or visit www.orchidsanfrancisco.org
PRESS:    Contact Frances Larose or Liz Rosinski at 650-548-6700 or email lrosinski@prmagic.com  
               
Photos, Interviews and Additional Information Available