Enter the Design Division at the 2026 National Chrysanthemum Flower Show
Do you enjoy creating floral arrangements? Have you ever thought about entering a flower show but weren’t quite sure where to start? Here’s your chance to have some fun, try something new, and share your creativity!
The Phoenix Chrysanthemum Society and the Arizona Federation of Garden Clubs invite floral designers of all experience levels to participate in “Let’s Dance! Rhythm & Blooms,” the 2026 National Chrysanthemum Society’s 78th Annual Chrysanthemum Show, November 21–22 at the Valley Garden Center in Phoenix. Whether you’re an experienced exhibitor or entering your very first design, we’d love to have you join us!
Five Classes, Five Ways to Get Creative
This year’s Design Division features five classes inspired by different styles of dance. All are Designer’s Choice of Style, which means you can create a Traditional or Creative design without having to follow a prescribed design type. Each class has its own staging requirements, giving you an opportunity to experiment with color, movement, balance, and rhythm.
Class 1: Line Dance
A petite design staged with an 8″ high by 6″ wide background panel and a 6″ x 6″ underlay.
Class 2: Ballet Pas de Deux
A petite design with a 12″ high by 9″ wide background panel and a 9″ x 9″ underlay.
Class 3: Tango
A petite design with an 8″ high by 6″ wide background panel and a 6″ x 6″ underlay.
Class 4: Salsa
A design displayed on a freestanding pedestal and viewed from all sides. This class is currently filled.
Class 5: Hip Hop
A larger design displayed on a 30″ high table in a 30″ x 30″ space, with a 40″ high by 30″ wide background panel and a 30″ x 20″ underlay.
The petite classes are especially inviting if you enjoy working on a smaller scale. And if you prefer a little more room to express yourself, Hip Hop offers plenty of possibilities!
Do I Have to Grow Chrysanthemums?
Not at all! Every design must feature one or more chrysanthemums as the dominant flower, but you do not have to grow them yourself. Chrysanthemums offer a wonderful variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. From dramatic disbuds and elegant incurves to cheerful pompons, there’s a mum for almost any design idea. You may also incorporate other fresh or dried plant materials, along with appropriate accessories, to bring your interpretation of the class title to life.
Never Entered a Design Show Before?
Don’t let that stop you! You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy exhibiting. Flower shows are a wonderful way to challenge yourself, learn something new, and meet others who share your love of floral design.
Start with a class title that appeals to you. Read the staging requirements, imagine the possibilities, and have some fun planning your design. If you’re unsure about background panels, underlays, or other requirements, we’re happy to answer questions and help you get started.
And remember, even experienced designers occasionally have a flower that refuses to cooperate!
How to Enter
There are still openings in Classes 1, 2, 3, and 5. Each class is limited to four entries, so don’t wait too long to reserve your place.
Advance registration is required by November 7, 2026.
Design entries will be accepted at:
Valley Garden Center
1809 N. 15th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Friday, November 20: 1:30–3:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 21: 7:30–9:00 a.m.
All exhibits must remain on display until 4:00 p.m. Sunday, November 22.
To register or request a copy of the complete Design Division Schedule, contact:
Renee Waite
Design Division Co-Chairman
Email: flowershowcrazy@gmail.com
Phone or text: 732-740-0695
Come Join the Dance!
A flower show is about more than ribbons. It’s about creativity, learning, friendship, and the pleasure of sharing something beautiful with others. If you’ve been thinking about entering a floral design competition, consider this your invitation. Choose a class, gather your flowers, and let your imagination take the lead.
Your flowers are ready to dance. Are you?
By Renee Waite, Design Co-Chairman
Photo 1 Unsplash
Photo 2 Renee Waite
