Flower lovers buying flowers at the Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place

Don’t miss the Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place this May. Discover locally grown plants, food, music, and educational workshops in Baltimore

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND–As spring blooms across Baltimore, gardening aficionados and plant lovers alike are gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the season: the Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place. Set to return this year on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, this vibrant festival is a celebration of all things floral and green, set against the stunning backdrop of the Washington Monument. If you’re a seasoned gardener or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of plants and flowers, this event promises an unforgettable experience.

The Rich History of the Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place

The Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place is more than just a festival; it is a Baltimore tradition that dates back to 1911. Originally organized by the Women’s Civic League, the festival was designed to encourage Baltimore residents to plant flowers and vegetables in their homes and vacant city lots. This initiative was part of the City Beautiful movement, a broader effort that aimed to improve urban living conditions by making cities safer, cleaner, and more beautiful.

For nearly 90 years, the Women’s Civic League managed the event, continuing to promote urban greening through the sale of flowers and plants. In 2019, the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy took over the festival’s management, with a clear vision to restore it to its historical roots while embracing a modern touch. Since then, the event has grown to feature locally sourced flowers, plants, crafts, and an increasing number of local vendors.

What to Expect at This Year’s Flower Mart Festival

This year, the Flower Mart promises to be bigger and better than ever. The festival will run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3. With nearly 70 vendors showcasing their products, attendees can expect an incredible array of flowers, plants, and other garden-related items. The festival will offer something for everyone. If you’re looking to add new plants to your garden, shop for unique crafts, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, there is something for you.

Flower and Plant Sales

The heart of the Flower Mart is, of course, the flowers and plants. This year’s festival will feature an impressive selection of locally grown plants and flowers. Visitors can browse through a variety of perennials, annuals, herbs, and even more specialized plants that are perfect for home gardeners of all levels. In addition to the plant vendors, there will be booths selling garden accessories, tools, and even garden-themed art, making it the perfect event for anyone looking to add a touch of nature to their space.

Locally Sourced Goods and Crafts

In line with the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy’s goal to support local vendors, this year’s festival will showcase a diverse range of locally made goods. Attendees can shop for handcrafted garden tools, flower-inspired jewelry, art prints, and much more. Many of the items available will be unique to the festival, offering attendees the chance to take home one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artisans.

A Feast for the Senses: Food and Drinks

No festival is complete without food and drinks, and the Flower Mart will not disappoint. The event will feature a wide selection of local food vendors, offering some of the best eats from Baltimore’s vibrant food scene. From gourmet snacks to hearty meals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can savor delicious food while exploring the various booths or relaxing in one of the outdoor seating areas.

Additionally, the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy will run beverage concessions serving local beer, wine, and mead. The combination of refreshing drinks and delicious food creates the perfect environment to unwind and enjoy the festivities.

Musical Performances

The Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place isn’t just about plants and food—it’s also a celebration of Baltimore’s music scene. With 20 musical performances scheduled over the two-day festival, attendees can enjoy a wide range of genres, including folk, jazz, pop, and classical music. These performances will take place on two stages set up in the square, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy as you wander through the festival.

Educational Workshops and Lectures

A major highlight of the Flower Mart is its focus on education and sustainability. This year, there will be free workshops and educational lectures that aim to inspire and empower attendees to create a greener city. The workshops will cover topics such as urban gardening, sustainable farming, and eco-friendly landscaping. In addition, participants will have the chance to engage in hands-on activities with plants, learning about everything from plant care to how to grow their own food.

The festival’s focus on sustainability ties in perfectly with the legacy of the Flower Mart, as it continues to encourage the greening of Baltimore City—a goal that remains as relevant today as it was over a century ago.

Why the Flower Mart is a Baltimore Tradition

The Flower Mart is not just an event; it’s a part of Baltimore’s rich cultural heritage. For more than a century, the festival has played a crucial role in bringing the community together, fostering a love for nature, and supporting local businesses. No matter if you’re a longtime Baltimore resident or a first-time visitor, attending the Flower Mart is an experience that should not be missed.

The festival also represents a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature in an urban environment. In a time when sustainability and green spaces are more important than ever, the Flower Mart stands as a shining example of how a community can come together to create positive change.

Family-Friendly Fun for All Ages

The Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place is a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to teach your children about the joys of gardening, find the perfect gift for a loved one, or simply enjoy a day out in the sun, the festival provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all ages.

The Famous Lemon Sticks

No visit to the Flower Mart would be complete without indulging in the festival’s famous lemon sticks. These sweet and tangy treats have become a beloved tradition, and they’re a must-try for anyone attending the festival. Be sure to stop by and grab one of these iconic snacks to make your Flower Mart experience even more memorable.

The Event Details You Need to Know

The Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place event is free and open to the public, making it accessible to everyone. The Washington Monument at 699 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD, is the location of the event, which is easily accessible by public transportation and parking.

As preparations continue for this year’s Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place, the organizer is updating its Facebook page with the latest information on vendors, performers, workshops, and other festival news.

Don’t Miss the Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place

The Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place is a celebration of all things floral, sustainable, and local, and it offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Baltimore’s vibrant community. You might be looking for beautiful plants, delicious food, or live entertainment—this festival has it all. Mark your calendars for May 2-3, 2025, and get ready to experience one of Baltimore’s most cherished traditions.

Are you attending this year’s Flower Mart at Mount Vernon Place? Share your expectations with us. Leave a comment.