Plant lovers in the Midwest have a date to mark. The Illinois Plant Show returns to the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville on January 30 and 31, 2027. Botanical Soirée LLC runs the event, and it brings thousands of houseplants under one roof. Therefore, winter shoppers get a green escape just outside St. Louis. This guide covers dates, location, tickets, plants, exhibitors, and attractions. Additionally, it shares simple tips so you can plan with confidence.
Event Overview at a Glance
Here is a quick summary of the key facts. However, organizers can update details, so check the official ticket page before you go.
| Detail | Information |
| Dates | Saturday, January 30, and Sunday, January 31, 2027 |
| Hours | 10 AM to 3 PM on both days |
| Last entry | 30 minutes before closing |
| Venue | Gateway Convention Center |
| Address | One Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234 |
| Organizer | Botanical Soirée LLC |
| Show director | Rebekah Watters |
| Exhibitors | About 50 |
| Admission range | $15 to $50 |
| Food booths | None |
| Extras | Plant swap, influencers, kids space |
Dates and Show Hours
The show runs for two days. It opens on Saturday, January 30, 2027, and it closes on Sunday, January 31, 2027. Doors open at 10 AM both days, and the show wraps up at 3 PM. However, organizers stop admission 30 minutes before closing. Therefore, plan to arrive by 2 PM at the latest.
Which Day Should You Pick?
At many plant shows, Saturday draws the biggest crowds. Sunday often feels calmer, so you can chat with growers and take your time. Early visitors get the best choice of rare plants. Late visitors, on the other hand, may find better deals as vendors pack up.
Also, some shows in the same series offer early entry to VIP ticket holders. Check your ticket for details before you plan your morning.
Location and Getting There
The show takes place at the Gateway Convention Center, at One Gateway Drive in Collinsville, Illinois. Collinsville sits just east of St. Louis, across the Mississippi River. As a result, visitors from both states can reach the venue with a short drive.
Driving and Parking
The center stands close to major highways, so most guests arrive by car. Enter the address into your map app a day early. Additionally, check the ticket page for parking rules and fees, because details can change from show to show.
Flying or Taking Transit
St. Louis Lambert International Airport is the closest major airport. From there, rent a car or book a ride to Collinsville. Meanwhile, if you plan to travel by bus or train, look up local transit routes in advance. Service on weekends can run less often.
Where to Stay
Collinsville has several hotels near the venue. Therefore, out-of-town visitors can sleep close to the show and avoid early-morning drives. Book soon, because winter events can fill rooms quickly.
Tickets and Admission
Listings show admission from $15 to $50. The top of that range most likely points to a VIP pass, while general entry costs less. Some online listings show prices near $55. That figure probably reflects a VIP pass plus taxes and fees.
Other shows in the same Botanical Soirée series sell a $50 VIP pass online and sell general tickets at the door. Those shows also let children 15 and under in for free. The Collinsville show may follow the same plan. However, confirm the rules on the official ticket page before you buy.
| Ticket Type | Expected Price | What to Know |
| General admission | From about $15 | Likely sold at the door on show day |
| VIP pass | Up to $50, plus taxes | May include early entry; check your ticket |
| Children 15 and under | Free at other shows in the series | Confirm for Collinsville |
Smart Ticket Tips
- Buy VIP tickets only from the official organizer page or a trusted ticket site.
- Bring both cash and a card. Some vendors prefer one or the other.
- Compare the final price with fees before you check out.
- Save your ticket on your phone so you can enter quickly.
Plants You Can Expect
This show is all about houseplants. The organizer lists anthuriums, alocasias, rare aroids, begonias, ferns, hoyas, monsteras, philodendrons, peperomias, pothos, and succulents. Specialty growers also bring aquatic plants, bonsai, and orchids. As a result, both new and seasoned collectors find something to love.
| Plant Group | Examples | Why Shoppers Love Them |
| Aroids | Anthuriums, alocasias, monsteras, philodendrons, pothos | Bold leaves and quick growth in warm rooms |
| Flowering and foliage | Begonias, orchids, peperomias, hoyas | Rich color, odd textures, and long-lasting blooms |
| Ferns and succulents | Boston-style ferns, desert succulents | Soft greenery for humid spots and tough plants for dry ones |
| Specialty | Aquatic plants, bonsai | Unusual displays and creative gift ideas |
Best Picks for Beginners
New to plants? Start with pothos, peperomias, or succulents. These plants forgive missed waterings and adapt to most homes. Additionally, ask the grower for a simple care tip at the booth. Most sellers love to share advice.
Hunting for Rare Finds
Rare aroids and unusual hoyas sell out fast. Therefore, arrive early on Saturday if you want a special plant. Set a budget before you walk in, and keep a short wish list on your phone. That way, you stay focused when the aisles get busy.
Exhibitors and Vendors
About 50 exhibitors fill the hall. The event is not juried, so vendors range from small growers to specialty shops. Plant sellers lead the lineup. However, listings also mention pottery, plant accessories, antiques, collectibles, crafts, fine art, fine craft, and homegrown products. Consequently, you can pick up a plant and a matching pot in one trip.
No Food Booths
The listing says the show has no food booths. Therefore, eat before you arrive. Also, pack a water bottle and a small snack for the car.
Becoming a Vendor
Growers and makers who want a booth at the Illinois Plant Show can apply on the Botanical Soirée vendor page. The organizer says applications stay open until the space fills. Additionally, the organizer notes that Illinois does not require a plant license for vendors. Still, sellers should check current state rules before they sign up.
How to Shop Smart
- Walk the full hall once before you buy.
- Check leaves, stems, and soil for pests.
- Ask about light, water, and temperature needs.
- Take photos of tags so you remember each plant’s name.
Attractions and Activities
The show offers more than shopping. Three activities stand out on the official lineup.
Plant Swap
The plant swap lets visitors trade cuttings and spare plants with fellow growers. It works well for budget-minded shoppers. Bring healthy, pest-free cuttings, and label each one with its name. Additionally, ask the organizer about swap rules before the day, since each show can set its own.
Influencers and Plant Creators
Plant influencers appear at the show, and fans can meet them in person. You may spot familiar faces from social media. Therefore, bring your phone for photos and quick plant tips. Creators often share the plants they love most, which gives you fresh ideas for your own shelf.
Kids Space
The show includes a kids space, so families can enjoy the weekend together. Children can explore while adults browse. Moreover, a plant makes a fun first pet for a child. Let your kids pick a small succulent or a spider plant, and teach them how to care for it.
Learning from Growers
Every booth doubles as a mini class. Growers explain light, water, and soil needs in plain words. As a result, you leave with plants and with the know-how to keep them alive.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
A little planning makes the day easier. Follow these simple steps.
- Arrive when doors open. Rare plants go first.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk and stand for hours.
- Bring a tote bag, a box, or a small wagon for your plants.
- Protect plants from the cold. January weather in southern Illinois can drop below freezing, so wrap each plant in paper or a sleeve.
- Keep plants in a warm car. Never leave them outside while you eat or shop elsewhere.
- Carry cash and a card for vendors.
- Eat a meal before you enter, because the show has no food booths.
After you get home, give new plants a few days to adjust. Keep them away from cold windows and drafty doors. Also, check them for pests before you place them near your other plants.
Make a Weekend of It
Collinsville and nearby St. Louis offer plenty to do before or after the show. For example, you can add one or two of these stops.
- Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, for more green inspiration
- The Butterfly House, a warm indoor escape in winter
- The Magic House, a hands-on children’s museum
- The Missouri History Museum, which tells the story of the region
- Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, a famous ancient city site
- The World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Collinsville, a fun roadside photo stop
However, winter hours can change, so check each website before you go.
Conclusion
The Illinois Plant Show gives plant fans a bright start to 2027. It runs January 30 and 31 from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville. Admission ranges from $15 to $50, and about 50 exhibitors sell everything from rare aroids to pottery. Additionally, guests can join a plant swap, meet influencers, and use a kids space.
To sum up, arrive early, bring cash and a card, and protect your plants from the cold. Finally, check the official ticket page for the latest updates. With a little planning, you will leave with new plants, new friends, and plenty of ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2027 plant show in Collinsville?
It takes place on Saturday, January 30, and Sunday, January 31, 2027.
2. Where does the show happen?
The Gateway Convention Center hosts it at One Gateway Drive, Collinsville, IL 62234. The city sits just east of St. Louis.
3. What are the show hours?
Doors open at 10 AM and the show ends at 3 PM on both days. Admission closes 30 minutes before the end.
4. How much do tickets cost?
Listings show prices from $15 to $50. The higher price likely covers a VIP pass. Check the official ticket page for the final cost.
5. Can I buy tickets at the door?
Other shows in the same series sell general tickets at the door and pre-sell VIP passes. Confirm the plan for Collinsville before you go.
6. Can I bring my kids?
Yes. The show has a kids space, and it is built for the whole family. Other shows in the series let children 15 and under in for free, so check the ticket page.
7. What kinds of plants will the show have?
Expect anthuriums, alocasias, rare aroids, begonias, ferns, hoyas, monsteras, philodendrons, peperomias, pothos, succulents, aquatic plants, bonsai, and orchids.
8. Will food be available?
No. The listing says the show has no food booths. Eat before you arrive and bring a snack for the road.
9. Can I join the plant swap?
Yes, a plant swap is on the lineup. Bring healthy, pest-free cuttings and ask the organizer about the swap rules.
10. How do I become a vendor?
Apply on the Botanical Soirée vendor page. About 50 exhibitors take part, and applications stay open until the space fills.
