Thousands of Orchids light up Chicago Botanic Garden this winter

While snow covers the grounds of the Chicago Botanic Garden and the sky stays gray, a bright and colorful scene awaits visitors inside.

The garden is set to open its 12th annual Orchid Show on Saturday, featuring more than 10,000 blooming orchids. Inside the greenhouses, warm air and bright lights welcome guests as staff make final preparations.

This year's show is themed "Feelin' Groovy,"inspired by the 1970s. One of the main attractions is a yellow Volkswagen Beetle filled with orchids, adding a fun and cheerful touch to the display.

"It's a great escape from the winter cold," said Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president of visitor events and programs. "People are looking for something joyful and playful during this time of year."

Orchids are one of the largest plant families, and some rare species are on display, said horticulturist Jason Toth. One highlight is 'Darwin's orchid', known for its long flower shape that once helped Charles Darwin understand how pollinators adapt to plants.

In another section, visitors can see Vanda orchids in shades of purple, pink and yellow, with large roots hanging freely. These orchids grow on trees rather than in soil.

"Everyone is tired of winter," Toth said. "A flower show like this is exactly what people want right now."

The Orchid Show is expected to attract around '85,000 visitors'this year.