From September 4 to 6, The Bascom was in full bloom for the 15th Annual Dazzling Dahlia Festival. This cherished tradition brought together the beauty of dahlias, the creativity of artists, and the joy of community engagement.
The festival opened with our Fall Reception, where guests explored new exhibitions and celebrated Shannon Woodford, winner of the 2025 Dahlia Poster Contest. Over the weekend, visitors encountered Petals and Perspectives, a gallery-inspired floral showcase created by local nonprofit organizations in collaboration with expert designers, presented in dialogue with works of art on view. Studio Members presented handcrafted wares, including vases and wall pockets filled with fresh dahlias, extending the conversation between fine art and floral design.
The beloved Single Bloom Competition invited growers of all levels to share their finest blossoms, filling The Bascom Terrace with more than 400 entries from 56 generous participants. Educational programs deepened learning for enthusiasts and new growers alike, including Peggy Boruchow Arnette’s talk, What Makes a Blue Ribbon Bloom, and Drew English’s Dahlia Dialogue.
This festival is made possible by a dedicated creative community. We are grateful to our nonprofit partners and designers for Petals and Perspectives, to Studio Members for their inspired presentations, to the volunteers who assembled mason jar bouquets, to the 56 growers who shared their blooms, to the volunteers who supported the Single Bloom Competition, to our judges and the Dahlia Committee, and to the exhibiting artists whose work animated the galleries. We also recognize the contributions of our Emerging Designers, Seth Baker and Parks Felton, whose thoughtful design support helped shape the visitor experience. It truly took a village.
For a complete listing of Petals and Perspective participants, please scroll to the Festival Program below.
The Bascom is honored to host this annual celebration where fine art and floral beauty meet. Thank you to all who participated, supported, and attended. Your involvement allows The Bascom to provide accessible, high-quality arts experiences for our region.
Single Bloom Competition Awards
Event Photos
