Plumeria Festival blooms this weekend in Balboa Park: what to know
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Balboa Park will be bursting with color, fragrance and island vibes this weekend as the Southern California Plumeria Society hosts its annual Plumeria Festival, a celebration of the tropical flower that’s synonymous with aloha spirit.
Set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6–7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event transforms Casa del Prado into a paradise of blooms, beats and bites — and best of all, it’s free and open to the public.
Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast, a curious newcomer or just in it for the shave ice and Polynesian dancing, the Plumeria Festival promises a little something for everyone.
What to expect
Flower Show
The heart of the festival is its Flower Show, featuring thousands of fragrant plumeria blossoms in various colors. Flower show judging kicks off Saturday at noon, with the People's Choice voting running from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. While the exhibit will open to the public once judging is complete, Sunday is your best bet to catch the full display of award-winning flowers from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lots of plants
Green thumbs and aspiring gardeners, get ready: this is one of Southern California’s largest plumeria plant sales, with over 1,000 rooted plants from 25 expert vendors. With 400+ varieties — in colors and fragrances that range from citrusy and spicy to sweet and floral — you’re bound to find the perfect addition to your garden, balcony or window sill.
Prices range from $10 to $400, and knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to share growing tips, care advice and help you pick the right plant for your lifestyle. There’s even a holding zone so you can shop and then stroll — your plants will be safe while you explore
Live entertainment, food and drinks
Get swept away by the rhythm of the islands with live Polynesian music and hula dancing throughout the weekend. Here's the entertainment lineup:
- Saturday: Entertainment by Tipanie o Patitifa (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Sunday: Paniola Jack (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
- Sunday: Motu Nehenehe Polynesian Dancers (2 p.m. to 3 p.m.)
And don’t miss the ono (delicious) eats in Patio B, featuring:
- Island Life Foods: Hawaiian bowls, plates and musubi
- Mochinatics: mochi donuts and malasadas
- Shrimpholic: bold shrimp-based dishes
- Hokulia Shave Ice
- Kapu Coffee’s gourmet brews
Shopping
Looking for a unique gift or souvenir? Stop by the Plumeria Gifts Sale in Room 102 for handmade items, gardening supplies, the new 2026 SCPS calendar, and fresh festival T-shirts in men’s and women’s styles.
Getting there
The festival is held at Casa del Prado, Room 101, located at 1800 El Prado in San Diego. It's across from the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park. A map can be seen below:
Parking is free, but organizers say lots are expected to fill quickly. For a smoother visit, consider using rideshare or parking at the Inspiration Point lot and hopping on the free tram to Plaza de Panama.
Festival volunteers even offer a plant runner service to help you transport your purchases to the loading zone or your car.
The Plumeria Festival is child-friendly and pet-friendly. For more information, visit southerncaliforniaplumeriasociety.com.
