Camellia Bloom Displays
Hundreds of blooms, named and labeled by growers from across the county. Bring your own best bloom to show.
Semmes Woman's Club presents
Semmes Camellia Festival2027
Camellias in bloom, art on display, and a whole town gathered under one roof. Everyone is welcome — come look at the flowers, stay for the music and refreshments.
- Date
- Saturday, January 23, 2027
- Time
- 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Place
- Historic Semmes Boys & Girls Club, Semmes, Alabama
Community sponsored by The Semmes Woman's Club & Local Camellia Enthusiast · Everyone welcome
Since 1949
A Festival Rooted in Semmes
The first Semmes Camellia Festival was held in 1949, when camellias were the pride of nearly every yard in town. Neighbors brought their best blooms to be seen, judged, and admired, and the day quickly became the way Semmes marked the middle of winter.
After a long pause, the festival was revived in 2013 and has been held every year since. It is still run the same way: by volunteers from the Semmes Woman's Club, with help from the community.
In 2027 we return to the Historic Semmes Boys & Girls Club — the same community room that has held our blooms, our art, and our neighbors for generations.
1949
The first festival is held in Semmes
2013
The festival is revived by the Woman’s Club
2027
Back at the Historic Boys & Girls Club
78
Years of camellias in our community
Past Festivals in Pictures
Moments from earlier Semmes Camellia Festivals — the blooms, the tables, and the neighbors who made the day.
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
Semmes Camellia Festival
What to expect
At the Festival
Everything happens inside the historic club building and on the grounds around it. Stop at the welcome table when you arrive and we will point you the right way.
Guest Speaker
A camellia expert shares how to grow healthy bushes in south Alabama soil.
Camellia Tablescapes
Tables decorated by local hostesses, each one built around a different camellia theme.
Semmes Camellia Maids
Our young ladies of the festival are presented during the afternoon program.
Free Gulf Glory Seedlings
Take home a Gulf Glory camellia seedling or a seed bag, while supplies last.
Historic Photo Displays
Photographs and clippings from the 1949 festival through today.
Demonstrations
Watch air-layering, pruning, and bloom preparation done right in front of you.
Refreshments
Coffee, sweets, and a warm place to sit and visit with neighbors.
Call for artists
Semmes Blooms With Camellias
Our judged art exhibit welcomes students and adults alike. Paint, draw, photograph, or assemble — any style, any medium, as long as the camellia is in it.
- Up to 2 artworks per artist
- 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention ribbons
- Student and adult judging categories
- Drop-off Friday, January 22, 5–6 p.m.
Reserve your space
Register for a Table
Camellia blooms, tablescapes, art displays, historic photos, and nursery vendors are all welcome. There is no charge to register, and you do not need an account.
- 1
Fill out one form
Tell us your name, how to reach you, and what kind of table you need. It takes about three minutes.
- 2
We confirm your spot
A committee member replies by phone or email within a few days to confirm the details.
- 3
Join us January 23
Arrive early to set up your table, then enjoy the festival. We help you find your place.
Follow the Festival on Facebook
Photos, schedule changes, and the full event listing live on our Facebook page. Everyone is welcome to join the event and share it with a friend.