All About the Petals with Purpose: Dahlia Festival

On 15 and 16 March, we had the joy of hosting the very first Petals with Purpose: Dahlia Festival! It was a weekend filled with colour, community, and celebration, as flower lovers gathered to immerse themselves in the beauty of these stunning blooms.

Despite a bit of rain on Sunday, which turned the fields slightly muddy, the festival spirit remained undampened. Armed with rain jackets, umbrellas, and sturdy wellies, visitors embraced the weather, proving that a little drizzle couldn’t stand in the way of a great time. The sight of families and friends strolling through the dahlia fields, marvelling at the vibrant petals glistening with raindrops, was nothing short of magical.

A Festival for All

Nature lovers of all ages—young children clutching their parents’ hands, couples capturing romantic moments, and seasoned gardeners exchanging tips—came together to celebrate a shared passion for flora. Conversations were filled with excitement, as visitors admired the intricate layers and dazzling colours of each bloom.

Of course, no festival is complete without delicious food! The team from Hoërskool Bekker delighted everyone with their mouth-watering meals, ensuring smiles all around. Meanwhile, the farm stall was an absolute treasure trove, offering fresh meats, biltong, and an array of farm-fresh goods. Visitors eagerly stocked up on treats to take home, savouring the authentic farm experience.

Learning and Inspiration

Adding to the experience were the inspiring talks by Charles Barnhoorn and Melanie Walker, who captivated audiences with their wealth of knowledge. Their daily sessions provided valuable insights into the world of dahlias, gardening, and sustainable growing practices. Whether seasoned horticulturists or curious newcomers, attendees left with a deeper appreciation for these enchanting flowers and practical tips to nurture their own gardens.

To commemorate the occasion, we also had a delightful range of dahlia festival merchandise available—cute mugs, stylish totes, and other keepsakes to remind everyone of the beautiful weekend. If you didn’t get a chance to pick one up, don’t worry! You can still grab your own tote-ally amazing bag or mug here: https://hadeco.co.za/collections/merch 

A Festival with Purpose

Beyond the joy and beauty of the dahlia festival, the event carried a deeper significance. Thanks to your support, we were able to donate R20,000 to Abraham Kriel Childcare, a cause that holds a special place in our hearts. This contribution will go towards helping children in need, providing them with care, education, and hope for a brighter future. Seeing the community come together for a shared passion while making a tangible difference was truly the highlight of the festival.

So, to every single person who purchased a ticket, we extend our sincerest gratitude. Your participation not only filled the fields with life but also helped make a real impact.

Looking Ahead: Dahlia Bulb Pre-orders

With the festival showcasing dahlias in all their blooming glory, it’s no surprise that interest in dahlia bulbs skyrocketed! However, we’d like to remind everyone that March is not the right time to plant dahlia bulbs.

If you’re eager to grow your own breathtaking blooms, our dahlia bulb pre-orders—along with other summer bulbs—will open in July. Deliveries will commence from October, ensuring that you receive your bulbs at the perfect planting time. In the meantime, you can register your interest and be the first to know when your favourite varieties are available by signing up here:  Hadeco Dahlia Collection  . 

See You at the Next Festival!

As we close in on this unforgettable festival, we’re already looking forward to the next festival in spring ! We have plenty of exciting plans in store and can’t wait to share them with you. Keep an eye on our updates, and make sure you’re signed up for our newsletter to get all the latest details first.

Sign up to our gardening community here .

Until then, happy gardening, and thank you for being part of this incredible journey!