Boston, the historic gem of New England, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. As Fleurs de Villes returns to Boston for with Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE at Prudential Center (September 18-22, 2024) we explore the floral beauty, lore, and stories that make Boston unique.

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PUBLIC GARDENS: OASES OF TRANQUILITY

One of the city's most iconic green spaces is the Boston Public Garden, which is the country’s first botanical garden established in 1834 as the Boston Common. In November, this 24-acre oasis transforms into a tapestry of colour. Rows of vibrant chrysanthemums, ornamental cabbage, and pansies blanket the meticulously manicured gardens, creating a mesmerizing display that contrasts beautifully with the fading autumn leaves.

The central lagoon, framed by weeping willows and populated by whimsical swan boats, is adorned with blooming water lilies. The lilies, though not as vibrant as their summer counterparts, maintain their delicate beauty well into the cooler months. For a unique experience, take a leisurely swan boat ride through this tranquil scene, immersing yourself in the harmony of nature. In the spring, two real swans, named Romeo and Juliette, are relocated to the lagoon for their seasonal stay. Don’t miss the bronze “Make Way for Ducklings” sculptures, inspired by the beloved children’s book.

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FLORAL LORE OF BOSTON: THE MAYFLOWER CONNECTION

The name "Boston" itself carries a floral legacy. The city is said to be named after Boston, Lincolnshire, England. Interestingly, Boston, England, has its own connection to flowers through the iconic Mayflower. The pilgrims who sailed aboard the Mayflower, ultimately settling in Plymouth, Massachusetts, embarked from the English port town of Boston. There is a strong association between the Mayflower ship and Boston, not just through the city's name, but also as a symbol of the journey that led to the establishment of the New World.

The Mayflower's namesake is the beautiful Mayflower, or Epigaea repens, a native North American wildflower. These delicate pink and white blossoms hold a significant place in the hearts of those who appreciate the history of Boston and the United States as a whole. Also known as the Trailing Arbutus, it typically blooms in early spring and is the official state flower of Massachusetts.

THE BOSTON ROSE LEGEND

In the heart of downtown Boston, there is a charming spot known as the Kelleher Rose Garden. While this garden is not named for the city's official flower, it does have an intriguing legend associated with it.

According to local folklore, in the late 1800s, a wealthy merchant from Boston fell in love with a beautiful woman while visiting Ireland. Upon returning to Boston, he decided to create a garden in her honour. He brought over Irish roses and had them planted in the garden, believing that these roses would remind him of the love he left behind. Over the years, the legend of the Boston Rose Garden has been passed down, and visitors can still see these 1,500 stunning roses in the heart of the city.

Just a short walk away is the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. With one of the most comprehensive collections of artworks in North America, this Boston institution is not to be missed. It is from the museum's wide collection of paintings and portraits that florists will take inspiration for Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE. Prudential Center will host 16 fresh floral mannequins from September 18 - 22, 2024, each paying homage to a portrait from the MFA collection, while a special floral sculpture will be on display at the museum.