San Diego Moms: Coronado mom leads 103rd annual Flower Show

Colby Freer has special childhood memories from growing up on Coronado Island — some of the memories include the annual Coronado Flower Show, the largest tented flower show in the U.S.

Today, the mom of two, is proud to lead the 103rd annual show this weekend. Organized by the Coronado Floral Association, the show is Coronado’s longest running tradition, which includes an array of events leading up to and throughout the two-day festival.

“What began as a childhood tradition turned into a lifelong love,” said Freer, who serves as the president of the Coronado Flower Association. “The Flower Show is in my roots—and now it’s part of my legacy.”

This weekend’s events is a culmination of events that began in March where Coronado residents prepped and primed their gardens, home fronts, and store fronts in the hopes of winning the elusive blue ribbons. More than 100 volunteer judges examined the floral entries, and this weekend, the winners will be announced. 

“It’s the largest tented flower show in the nation, but the community spirit is what makes it magical,” Freer siad. While flowers are at the core, it’s also about history, art, storytelling and celebration. It feels like Coronado at its most joyful.”

The event isn’t just for those who love to garden or design — it’s a family-friendly extravaganza. 

“It’s colorful, creative, and fun—there’s something for every age,” Freer said. “Families can enjoy a weekend outdoors exploring the exhibits, joining in on activities, and being together. Watching my children experience the show reminds me that it’s not just a tradition—it’s a treasure we pass down.”

The Coronado Flower Show has been a spring tradition since 1922. Located at Spreckels Park, this two-day event includes landscape displays, a variety of floral competitions, educational lectures and demonstrations, live bandstand entertainment, food, a beer and wine garden with locally crafted beers, and shopping. 

For a full show schedule, visit here.

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San Diego Moms is published on Saturdays. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.