40th Annual Green Thumb Festival

Get ready to dig into the excitement at the 40th Annual Green Thumb Festival, St. Petersburg’s official Arbor Day celebration, on Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Walter Fuller Park. Now in its 40th year, the festival has grown into one of the largest gardening and environmental events in the Tampa Bay area. The free, family-friendly event brings together more than 120 garden, plant, and flower vendors and exhibitors, along with hands-on activities, educational workshops, and entertainment for all ages. The two-day event features: Free pine seedling and plant giveaways “Ask an Arborist” sessions with tree experts Gardening tool sharpening services Environmental exhibits and educational programs Children’s crafts and activities A free mulch delivery raffle for St. Petersburg residents A variety of local food trucks Festival goers can also take part in youth and adult workshops throughout the weekend. Registration is required for workshops, and space is limited. Another highlight is the Garden Club of St. Petersburg’s annual Flower Show, where attendees are invited to vote on their favorite displays with awards presented on Sunday at 3 p.m. inside the recreation center. “The Green Thumb Festival has been a prized tradition for generations of St. Pete residents,” said Mike Jefferis, Community Enrichment Administrator. “Celebrating the festival’s 40th year is a major milestone, and we’re excited to continue bringing the community together to celebrate nature, sustainability and the beauty of our city.”  The festival traces its roots back to 1986, when the City of St. Petersburg first launched the event as an Arbor Day celebration at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve to support its designation as a Tree City USA community. Over the decades, it has grown into a beloved community tradition that draws tens of thousands of attendees each year. Parking will be available at nearby locations, including Azalea Middle School and Azalea Sports Complex with handicap parking available at the recreation center. Free trolley service will transport attendees to and from the festival grounds.   For more information about the Green Thumb Festival, including vendor details, workshop registration, and event updates, visit greenthumbfestival.com or contact the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department at 727-893-7441.