Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Downtown Tempe Authority, in partnership with Arizona Flower Market, is accelerating access to the wonders of desert botanicals by bringing a floral wonderland to life with Tempe Blooms, a free community event on Saturday, Jan. 25 and Sunday, Jan. 26.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and features 21 real and spectacular large-scale floral displays spanning throughout the district, draped on buildings, surrounding historic landmarks , and arranged to stunning perfection by local floral designers, according to a press release.
The event also includes live music, live mural painting, a floral-inspired market, and flowerful specials from Downtown Tempe merchants, the release states.
More than 80,000 visitors attended last year’s inaugural event, and a similar crowd is expected this year. Admission is free and is open to all ages, and is dog-friendly too.
“The response to Tempe Blooms has been simply incredible,” said Lori Foster, president and CEO of Downtown Tempe Authority.
“This event highlights the exceptional talent of local artists, whose creativity energizes the downtown district and elevates its beauty in a truly unique and engaging way. I invite the community to experience this captivating celebration, featuring floral-themed activities such as art demonstrations, live mural painting, the Flowerful Market, and floral-inspired cocktails and culinary delights at participating businesses.”
While marveling at the floral installations—and snapping plenty of incredible photos, of course—attendees will also have the opportunity to observe as local artists create art in real time. A curated selection of 10 local artists will paint murals depicting the allure of desert botanicals with designs that encompass everything from a vivid desert landscape to a majestic Arizona sunset.
Local artisans and small businesses that use desert landscape and botanicals in their work will also be featured at Tempe Blooms Flowerful Market. Attendees can shop from over 40 local vendors, featuring handcrafted goods, art, edibles floral-themed treasures, handcrafted goods, art and flowers.
“Appreciating the beauty of floral design is one thing, but learning from some of the region’s leading floral experts is an empowering way to tap into your own creativity,” said Brennen Rigler, CEO of Arizona Flower Market. “We’re passionate about making beautiful flowers accessible and approachable for everyone, and we’re eager to welcome aspiring designers to a fun and informative weekend.”
