The 70th Annual Camellia Show took place on March 3 at the Bakersfield Racquet Club and was presented by the Camellia Society of Kern County. The event opened its doors to people at 1 p.m., where they were able to enjoy the flowers.

Admission was free, and the show featured novice categories, so locals were able to present their own home grown camellias.

Spectators viewed the rows and rows of flowers placed on tables that had been judged by the society members. This included a plethora of floral designs and flower arrangements that had their own unique styles and colors.

Most notable were the Japanese inspired styles and patterns that some used in their creative designs.

Participants utilized different organic materials that they grew in order to make their creations stand out. For example, one design showcased tree branches and leaves that gave the flowers a more polished look.

People were also able to enter an opportunity drawing, by purchasing tickets and placing them on the items they hoped to win. These items included beautifully arranged plants, baskets full of candy, sports ware, and even gardening tools.

Local Bakersfield resident Eva Estela shared her excitement in entering the drawing and even bought some tickets for her daughter, who accompanied her to the event.

“I really hope I win something,” Estela said, “Though I’m not a lucky person”.

Another attendee Karen Romero, enjoyed this year’s flowers, “They are so pretty and large,” said Romero, “Some don’t even look real, it’s amazing to me”.

People were also able to purchase their own camellia plants with prices ranging from $15 to $20. This could help motivate those in attendance to participate in next year’s camellia show and possibly place in the show.

There were drinks and snacks available to consume as spectators viewed the flowers, which they really enjoyed.

The drawing was scheduled to take place the following day at 3 p.m. People were required to be in attendance to win as they registered their information via cellphone so the Camellia society can notify the winners.