Upcoming events, festivals, conventions, and shows relevant to our niche
I see this mistake in beginners because bonsai invites action before it teaches patience. The Rocky Mountain Bonsai Society is preparing for another standout weekend at the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the 2026 edition looks like a strong reason for both longtime bonsai enthusiasts and first-time visitors to make the trip. As of June 16, … Read more
The Boise Flower & Garden Show brings spring to life in Idaho, and for bonsai practitioners, it’s one of the few chances each year to see quality specimens, rare cultivars, and connect with growers who understand the patient art. I’ve attended garden shows across three continents, and what makes regional shows like Boise valuable isn’t … Read more
Columbus Bonsai Society Annual Show 2026: What to Expect and How to Get the Most from It I’ve attended dozens of bonsai shows across North America and Japan over the past twenty years, and the Columbus Bonsai Society Annual Show consistently stands out for its balanced mix of traditional displays, hands-on learning, and genuine community … Read more
MidAtlantic Bonsai Societies Spring Festival: A Complete Guide for April 17-19, 2026 After two decades of practicing bonsai, I’ve learned that the most meaningful growth happens not in isolation, but in community. The MidAtlantic Bonsai Societies Spring Festival represents one of those rare opportunities where practitioners at every level—from curious beginners to seasoned artists—gather to … Read more
There are events that remind you why you fell in love with bonsai in the first place. For me, the Potomac Bonsai Festival 2026 is one of those gatherings. Returning May 8–10 to the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum at the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington, DC, this year’s festival coincides with World Bonsai Day … Read more
Every February, bonsai artists and collectors from around the world turn their attention to Ueno Park in Tokyo, where the most important event in the bonsai calendar takes place. The Kokufu-ten — Japan’s national bonsai exhibition — has no real equivalent in the art world. It is where the finest trees in the country gather … Read more