Lily's Boots: Sun Valley's Open House

This week, I've decided to write about where my boots are going, not where they've been. On Sunday, they're bringing me right back here to our farm for our 24th annual Open House. I'm very excited for the event, as it's my first time and I've heard there's a lot to see and do. Yes, I'll be working during the show, but I still intend to check a few things out! Here's what I'm told you (and I) should see and do:

1. How we do things here.
Get an idea of how and where our Tulips, Asiatic lilies and Oriental lilies are planted, grown, harvested and bunched by taking a Guided Tour of the Greenhouses. Also check out how we pack our products at the Packing Display and see how we pasteurize our soil at the Soil Steaming Display. Finally, take a Hayride past our hoophouses and fields, where crops like Hydrangea and Iris are growing.

A hayride takes off for the fields (Open House 2010)

2. "Made in America" Design Show.
Floral designers from all over California and Oregon will  showcase their talent while taking you on a journey through "Roaring 20's," "Retro 40's," "Rock n' Roll 50's, 60's, and 70's, " and "Futuristic" eras with their designs. First, second and third place winners will be chosen for each category, and a Best in Show winner will be chosen from the first place category winners. Winners will be announced at 3:00 pm. The public (that means you!) will also be able to vote on their favorite design for the Pople's Choice Award.

The Best in Show Winner of 2010

3. The Masters in Action.
The Floral Design Show judges will also put on a show of their own - this is a must-see! Returning judges, Darlene Montgomoery CCE, MFD and Win Gonzalez, Jr. (former President of the Northwest chapter of AIFD), and newcomer Lily Chan (Vice President of the Northwest chapter of AIFD) will demonstrate their expertise on stage in the Main Showroom starting at 1:00 pm.

Darlene Montgomery gives a design presentation (Open House 2010)

4. Pick up bulbs and buy our flowers!
If you pre-ordered bulbs on our website, then you'll be able to pick them up at the General Store during the show. Also, we'll have a great range of our fresh flowers for sale, so get there early for the best selection!

Flowers and Bulbs for sale and pick-up (2010 Open House)

5. Entertainment for the whole family
All of the floral fun will be complimented by live music, food and refreshments, and a the ever-popular Kiddie Corner. So in between tours, shows and purchases, relax and recharge your batteries with a coffee or give the Jolly Jump a whirl (if you're a kid, of course)!



Lucky sisters bring home flowers! (Open House 2010)

 There's clearly plenty to keep you and me busy this coming Sunday. Everyone at the farm is excited to see familiar faces from the local community and our out-of-towner friends and family. If you're in the area on Sunday, please pop in at the farm and say hello!

Sun Valley's 24th Annual Open House
Where: 3160 Upper Bay Rd., Arcata, CA
When: Sunday, July 24th, 12 - 4 pm
Contact: Tina Uhl, (707) 825-5827
http://www.tsvg.com/