Chelsea In Bloom 2024: Giant Floral Caterpillar To Take Over Sloane Square

Last Updated 28 February 2024

Chelsea In Bloom 2024: Giant Floral Caterpillar To Take Over Sloane Square

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A giant afternoon tea stand decorated with cakes and macarons made from flowers

Free flower festival Chelsea in Bloom returns this May, with a 'floral feasts' theme.

Shops, restaurants and other businesses around the area will be decorated with flowery installations themed on food — specifically, memorable foodie scenes from films, literature, history and art. Over 90 venues took part last year, when there was a film theme.

Sloane Square is the central focus of the festival; it'll be adorned with a blooming interpretation of beloved children's book The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Details of other installations haven't been revealed yet, but we'd hazard a guess there'll be at least one nod to the Mad Hatter's Tea Party from Alice in Wonderland.

A floral display surrounding a giant popcorn box
An installation from last year's film theme - though it could easily be reused for this year's foodie theme. Photo: Londonist

Several awards are up for grabs, including the People's Champion where, between 20-23 May, you'll be able to vote online for your favourite floral foodie display.

The event coincides with the Chelsea Flower Show, taking place nearby the same week. Chelsea in Bloom spreads out along King's Road, Pavilion Road, Duke of York Square and Sloane Street. Free rickshaw rides and walking tours around the installations are available — head to the Information Point in Sloane Square to book.

Chelsea in Bloom 2024 takes place 20-26 May 2024, and is free to visit.