2nd Annual Bonsai Weekend · August 23 – 25
Dozens of bonsai on display, special guest artist and show judge Phil Malhiot, people’s choice award, bonsai workshops and demonstrations with the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, children’s programming, bonsai vendors, Asian-inspired cuisine, and more!
TICKETS:
$12 in advance | $15 at the door | $10 WBG & Bonsai Society Members
Ages 16 & Under: FREE
VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES
A limited number of vendor opportunities are available. Vendors are asked to submit their applications by June 21, 2024. Click here to view the Vendor FAQ.
INTRODUCING SPECIAL GUEST JUDGE PHIL MALHIOT
Phil Malhiot’s fascination with Bonsai began when he opened a friend’s refrigerator and saw a tiny tree on the shelf more than 40 years ago. That first winter he lost all but one of his fledgling trees in the harsh Midwestern winter. After that loss he started taking workshops and lessons to learn how to better care for his trees. In 1986, he visited the Midwest Bonsai Society show at the Chicago Botanic Garden for the first time.
“I was so inspired I started doing workshops and lessons every chance I got,” said Malhiot, who would go on to win Midwest’s Best in Show for an elm forest planting 20 years later. He has also been an active member of the Prairie State Bonsai Society where he has served as a board member and President.
Over the years, Malhiot has taught many students throughout the region from his early years at Ivan Watters Yasukanai Bonsai shop in Morton Grove to his own bonsai garden in the Chicago’s western suburbs. He has demonstrated the art of Bonsai throughout the Midwest and judged a variety of exhibitions and shows including for the Midwest Bonsai Society show at the Chicago Botanic Garden, Milwaukee Bonsai Society, and others.
Among his many awards is the American Bonsai Society’s Award of Merit for yamadori, Best in Show at the Midwest Bonsai Society show in 2006, and the Best in Show and People’s Choice at two Prairie State Bonsai Society shows.
Sponsorships are available! Click here for our 2024 Sponsorship Packet.
2023 Bonsai Weekend Gallery:
