San Diego World Rose Symposium: A Celebration of Roses
The city of San Diego is preparing to host a remarkable event that celebrates the beauty and diversity of roses, marking the 100th anniversary of the San Diego Rose Society. From April 30 to May 4 in 2027, gardening enthusiasts from across the globe are invited to partake in the San Diego World Rose Symposium, taking place at the picturesque Bahia Resort Hotel on Mission Bay.
What to Expect
This symposium promises an educational experience like no other, featuring some of the world’s leading botanists, master rose hybridizers, and expert rosarians. Attendees can look forward to a series of enlightening talks and discussions, with experts such as Tom Carruth and Ping Lim sharing invaluable insights into rose breeding and cultivation. Carruth is renowned for his creation of over 100 rose varieties, while Lim is celebrated for developing eco-friendly and resilient rose species.
In addition to the educational segment, the event will also include the National Rose Show—an exciting opportunity for participants to either showcase their own blooms or simply admire top-tier exhibitions of roses, arrangements, and photography. This aspect of the symposium is designed to inspire and uplift both novice and experienced rose growers alike.
Tour Highlights
As part of the symposium, attendees will have the unique chance to tour several stunning rose gardens throughout San Diego. Notable among these is the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden located in the famous Balboa Park. This particular garden boasts an impressive collection of over 1,600 roses across 130 varieties, providing a picturesque backdrop for educational excursions.
Moreover, participants can embark on privately curated tours featuring other exquisite gardens, including the expansive 37-acre San Diego Botanic Garden, home to thousands of plant species and numerous trails.
Exciting Auctions and Dinners
A standout feature of the symposium is the rare rose auction, where roses that are both hard-to-find and heirloom varieties will be available for attendees to purchase. This auction is particularly exclusive, as it offers an opportunity to acquire plants that cannot be found elsewhere in the world.
The symposium will also host an elegant 1927-themed American Rose Society Awards Dinner, inviting guests to celebrate not only the beautiful flowers but also the rich cultural and horticultural legacy of San Diego.
A Perfect Location
The Bahia Resort Hotel provides the perfect environment for a blend of relaxing seaside views and immersive educational experiences. The venue includes a secluded beach and meticulously cared-for tropical gardens, setting the stage for an unforgettable five days of rose exploration. Participants can easily stroll to the nearby Pacific Beach and experience the vibrant local dining scene.
Extended Experience
For those looking to extend their educational journey, an optional eight-day tour will be available, curated by renowned rose expert Paul Zimmerman. This tour will explore some of Southern and Central California's most iconic estates, public gardens, and nurseries, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of rose cultivation and garden design practices.
Join Us
As the San Diego Rose Society celebrates its 100-year presence, this symposium presents a unique opportunity to connect with fellow rose enthusiasts and learn from industry leaders. Registration details, including information on special hotel accommodations, can be found at
sandiegorosesociety.com/2027.
Don't miss this chance to be part of a vibrant celebration that honors roses in all their glory—mark your calendars and prepare to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of roses!