Orchids Return to Newfields Starting February 13

Orchids are back at Newfields. For the first time since 2021, guests can participate in the centuries-old tradition of finding joy and inspiration in colorful blooms during the gray days of winter.  

Art and nature collide with fabulous orchid displays in the Indianapolis Museum of Art and in the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse at Newfields, from Friday, February 13 through Sunday, March 15, 2026. 

“Newfields has a notable art collection, but few know we also have an impressive living plant collection. And Orchids is a wonderful time to see it shine,” said Ian Wilhite, Senior Horticulturist and Orchid Specialist at Newfields. “Our award-winning orchid collection features plants that would fit in the palm of your hand, flowers and all, to our biggest and boldest, Cattleya orchids, you can expect to see something bright and cheerful and learn a lot about this important plant too.” 

Fifteen tropical displays, each designed by Newfields’ expert greenhouse team are located in the IMA Galleries, four of which include additional written content connecting pieces from the Indianapolis Museum of Art Collection to the plant displays inspired by them. 

The Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse showcases all of the diversity that only the largest plant family on Earth can provide. Since the early 1900s, the glass houses on the Oldfields estate would have held orchid and tropical plants to bring joy to residents. The tradition lives on, and guests can continue to enjoy their astounding beauty despite the Indiana winter-weather.  

Orchids is included in General Admission and free for Members. Make plans and get tickets at discovernewfields.org.

There is so much to discover. Join the greenhouse team for a class: 

• Thursday, February 19 / Greenhouse Class: Mini Orchid Bowls / $75 Members & $85 public 

• Thursday, February 26 / Greenhouse Class: Air Plants & Orchid Wreath Making / $55 Members & $65 public 

• Thursday, March 5 / Greenhouse Class: Orchid Terrariums / $65 Members & $75 public 

• Thursday, March 12 / Greenhouse Class: Framed Orchid and Air Plant Class / $65 Members & $75 public 

  
  

The Museum & Garden Shop will have a large selection of live orchids for sale beginning February 12. There will also be a cheerful selection of orchid-inspired gifts and goodies in-store and online throughout the run of the show. 

Orchids is just the beginning of spring at Newfields. Mark your calendar, because Art in Bloom presented by LINNEA is just around the corner on Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22, 2026. Tickets will be available in the coming weeks.