Loading show information…
What the show looks like from a visitor's side of the bench: when the doors open, what it costs to come in, and the practical details that decide whether you bring a camera, a coat or a cool box.
The 2027 South African National Orchid Show promises an immersive experience celebrating the beauty, science and future of orchids.
Explore breathtaking displays showcasing thousands of flowering orchids, from rare species found in nature to award-winning cultivated hybrids that demonstrate decades of careful breeding and horticultural achievement. Watch South Africa’s leading judges evaluate exceptional plants as exhibitors compete for prestigious national awards that recognise excellence in orchid cultivation.
Browse the extensive plant sales area, where specialist nurseries from across South Africa will be joined by selected international orchid vendors, offering an exceptional range of orchid species, hybrids, companion plants, growing media and specialist supplies. Whether you are purchasing your very first orchid or searching for a rare collector’s specimen, knowledgeable growers from around the world will be on hand to share their expertise and passion.
The National Show Symposium will feature an outstanding programme of presentations by respected local and international speakers covering orchid cultivation, breeding, conservation, taxonomy, judging, sustainability and emerging scientific research. Integrated throughout the symposium, presentations by Wild Orchids of Southern Africa (WOSA) will highlight the ecology and conservation of indigenous orchids, illustrating how research undertaken in natural habitats continues to influence cultivation practices, breeding programmes and the long-term future of orchids.
SAOC focuses on orchids in cultivation. For wild orchid identification, habitat and conservation, visit our partner organisation Wild Orchids of Southern Africa (WOSA).
Visitors can further develop their knowledge through practical workshops, meet orchid societies from across the country, engage with researchers and conservationists, and discover how every aspect of the National Show reflects this year’s theme—from the protection of orchids in the wild to the pursuit of cultivated excellence.
The 2027 National Show is made possible through the generous support of our headline sponsors, donors and partners, whose commitment to horticulture, conservation, education and scientific advancement enables the South African Orchid Council to present a truly world-class event.
Whether your passion lies in conservation, scientific discovery, judging, growing or simply enjoying the extraordinary beauty of orchids, the 2027 South African National Orchid Show offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the complete journey of orchids and the people dedicated to their future.
16–19 September 2027
To be confirmed by the show committee
Dates and daily opening hours are still with the show committee.
The final day usually closes earlier to allow exhibitors to break down their displays.
To be confirmed by the show committee
Admission is charged per person per day, with concession rates for pensioners and children, and a reduced rate for members of affiliated SAOC societies. Whether tickets are sold at the door as well as in advance has not yet been confirmed. Current prices are shown on the ticket page.
See ticket prices and book →To be confirmed by the show committee
Catering arrangements have not been confirmed. Details of what will be available on site, and whether visitors may bring their own refreshments, will be published once the committee confirms the venue.
To be confirmed by the show committee
The photography policy has not been confirmed. Personal photography is normally welcome at SAOC shows; tripods, flash near the benches, and any commercial or press photography usually need prior arrangement. Confirmed rules will be published here.
To be confirmed by the show committee
Cloakroom and plant-holding arrangements have not been confirmed. If you buy plants at the show, we expect a holding area will be available so you need not carry them for the rest of your visit — this will be confirmed.
To be confirmed by the show committee
Accessibility details have not been confirmed.