#United States #Kennett Square #Longwood Gardens #Autumn Colors #Chrysanthemum Festival

Longwood Gardens Embraces Autumn's Colors

Longwood Gardens, nestled in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is set to welcome visitors from October 2 to November 15, 2026, for its spectacular experience, "Autumn's Colors." This event features more than 5,000 chrysanthemums, artistically arranged to celebrate the fall season alongside stunning foliage that paints the landscape in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and more.

As the temperatures drop and nature's palette shifts, guests can delight in both day and night activities that showcase the garden's transformative beauty. The highlight is undoubtedly the Chrysanthemum Festival, which kicks off on October 16, presenting visitors with a vivid, colorful display of meticulously sculpted chrysanthemum plants.

The Artistry Behind The Display

Chris Cole, Vice President of Horticulture at Longwood Gardens, expresses the mission behind the festival: “Our autumn display pairs nature's colorful foliage with the ancient artistry of chrysanthemum training.” Each chrysanthemum is not just planted but trained into distinct shapes—think spirals, cascading clouds—all representing more than a year of dedicated planning by horticultural experts.

Experience the Magic of Nature

As visitors stroll through the East and Main Conservatories, they will encounter a breathtaking array of flowers, with this year introducing a new double chrysanthemum arch. In addition, the Bonsai Workshop will host a special display, showcasing the creativity and skill involved in crafting bonsai chrysanthemums.

A notable feature of this year's event is the live chrysanthemum curtain in the Exhibition Hall, which acts as a backdrop for a stunning new display inspired by suiseki—the Japanese art of appreciating naturally occurring stones resembling landscapes. This installation includes vibrant chrysanthemum shapes, with some spanning nearly 10 feet in length, all designed to resonate with the themes of nature and beauty.

On October 24, the excitement continues as “Meet Us at the Mums” offers guests a chance to interact with Longwood's scientific team, who will share insights into the artistry and horticultural techniques involved in this festival. This event is free with admission but requires advance registration.

Spectacular Fountain Shows for Halloween

Longwood's Main Fountain Garden will be alive with its final Illuminated Fountain Performances of the season on weekends through October 31. Not to be missed is the debut of the Symphony of Horror Illuminated Fountain Performance, scheduled for October 23, which creatively merges scenes from the classic film Nosferatu with live organ music performed by Principal Organist Peter Richard Conte. Other performances like Halloween Magic will also delight families on select dates.

Embrace the Autumn Spirit Indoors and Outdoors

Indoor gardens and outdoor landscapes alike are ready to showcase the splendors of autumn. Guests can explore the lush conservatories adorned with seasonal plants, and the ever-changing foliage offers striking views from three treehouses strategically placed throughout the gardens.

Additionally, families have the opportunity to gather for Storytime sessions specially designed for young children, featuring seasonal stories that enhance the learning experience in the gardens.

Thriving Harvest Displays and Family Fun

Visitors can also enjoy an eye-catching fall harvest display, which will include ornamental grasses, colorful mums, and whimsical gourds dotting the Rose Arbor and other areas of the Gardens. Each year, one of the highlights is the Garden Railway, featuring miniature structures mimicking Longwood landmarks, running vibrantly throughout this enchanting space.

Dining options are plentiful as well, with the Beer Garden providing seasonal foods and drinks under the beautiful ginkgo trees, and the 1906 restaurant offering a menu rich with fresh, hand-harvested produce from the gardens.

Educational Opportunities to Explore Nature

Amid these stunning visuals, Longwood Gardens is dedicated to education, offering workshops that span various topics, from wellness to gardening techniques. Events like “Introduction to Carnivorous Plants” and “Chrysanthemum Floral Design” facilitate deeper connections with nature and boost appreciation of horticulture.

Another highlight is the Oberlander Prize Forum, set to delve into landscape architecture's evolving dialogues, scheduled from October 28-30. Guests will leave with richer knowledge and understanding of the connection between design, research, and nature.

Plan Your Visit

Autumn's Colors invites you to explore these breathtaking displays and engaging activities every day from 10 am to 6 pm Monday through Thursday, extending to 9 pm on Fridays through Sundays until November 1. Make sure to reserve your tickets ahead of your visit.

For more information about this experience and to purchase tickets, visit Longwood Gardens' official site. Immerse yourself in autumn and discover the breathtaking beauty Longwood has to offer.