Our museums are open on Independence Day, Monday, July 4.
Celebrate the start of spring at our annual floral takeover Bouquets to Art, now in its 34th year! Between the exciting lectures and demonstrations, elegant luncheons, the opening gala, and, of course, the galleries of art paired with breathtaking floral designs, there is so much to do and see.
To help you make the most out of this popular event we’re offering our tips and tricks for the best Bouquets to Art experience:
Parking and Transportation: Bouquets to Art is one of the most-highly attended events at the de Young. Don’t be a late bloomer – allow extra travel time on your way to the museum. We recommend taking public transit or ride-sharing wherever possible. Street parking in Golden Gate Park is very limited. (Prices for the Music Concourse Parking Garage can be found here.)
Watch Your Step: The galleries can get very busy, so keep your eyes up and be mindful of your surroundings to avoid bumping into other visitors or installations.
RSVP: Purchase your tickets online to skip the queue and go straight into the galleries.
Lectures, demonstrations and luncheons also fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your seat as soon as possible.
Fresh Flowers: Our florists and conservators spend time each day replenishing the flowers so that everything stays fresh throughout the duration of the exhibition—no need to arrive early if you’re concerned about wilting!
Don’t Miss: Take a picture in front of our live flower wall, a new addition to this year’s event!
Explore the Collection: Installations are positioned throughout the museum with no set beginning or end point. With floral displays in nearly every gallery, there’s plenty to see, so if your favorite gallery is busy, visit another while you wait.
Photo-Free Days: Feeling camera shy? Experience Bouquets to Art in a quieter, more contemplative mood during our photo-free period on Friday, March 16th from 9:30 am–noon.
Dress Up: Get in the spirit and wear your favorite floral print or accessory! Note that visitors aren’t allowed to bring in live flowers due to the museum’s guidelines designed to protect the artwork.
Take It Home: On your way out, make a stop at the flower cart sponsored by Stargazer Barn near our lower level garage entrance, where you can purchase beautiful and easy-to-carry arrangements of California-grown flowers.
Ticket Perks: Your Bouquets to Art ticket purchase can be applied to an annual membership, so you can be the first to know about next year’s Bouquets to Art, and future exhibitions. Plus, your ticket will include same-day general admission to the Legion of Honor.
Be Social!: This annual fundraiser is one of the highlights of our year—we hope it’s one of yours, too! Share your photos on social media using the official hashtag #BouquetstoArt.
