Art in Bloom, the NCMA’s annual festival of art and flowers, opens at the museum this Wed., March 16. Floral art is blooming around Raleigh, too. Think sour beer, artsy cocktails, and trash-turned-trendy.

North Hills installation by Watered Garden Florist | Photo courtesy of NCMA

During the five day event, floral designers will showcase original, art-inspired installations throughout the museum. There will be live music in the galleries and events like floral demonstrations, master classes, and other workshops. Proceeds from the event support NCMA’s programming and exhibitions + benefit the NCMA Foundation, Inc.

Colorful and elaborate trash can bouquets and other surprise floral spectacles popped up around the Triangle March 10-12. Inspired by Lewis Miller Design of New York City + created by local florists like TG Floristry and Eclectic Sage, these arrangements were found in places like Pullen Park + Chavis Park.

Moore Square’s piano was decked out in a rainbow of stems by floral artist Joseph Barnes. We even found fresh flowers placed by Watered Garden Florist in the North Hills fountain.

"You're Getting in Your Own Way" cocktail | Photo by Forrest Mason

The Willard will serve Art in Bloom-inspired cocktails from March 16-20. Three of the rooftop bar’s bartenders crafted “Light of Life,” “You’re Getting in Your Own Way” + “Morning Mist,” cocktails all named after and inspired by works of art. A percentage of the drink proceeds will be donated to the NCMA.

Fullsteam Brewery + Catering Works collaborated to create “Tart in Bloom,” an exclusive series of flower sour brews infused with flavors like elderflower ginger, lychee calendula, and rose hibiscus. The beers are now available on tap at its downtown Durham tavern (plus, keep your eye out for a keg bouquet). Fullsteam will host tastings at the NCMA on March 18 + 19 from 12-8 p.m.

Tickets and more information about Art in Bloom are available here. We’ll see you there. 💐