The first official day of spring is just two weeks away, but outside we are still in the throes of winter. A perfect time for a flower show. The annual Portland Flower Show theme for 2015 is “A Taste of Spring,” and who among us isn't jonesing for that?

The 2015 event opened on Wednesday, March 4 with a gala reception, and continues through Sunday, March 8.

Exhibitors will include expert craftspeople in the fields of landscaping, stonework and nurseries to pottery and mini-barn builders.

Vendors hail predominantly from Maine, but attendees will find participants from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Georgia and Florida.

The vendor list includes African Authentics, Bee Pure & Natural, Benson Farm Earth Products, Birdhouses of Maine, Gryffon Ridge Spice Merchants, Motown Mushrooms, Penobscot Bay Porch Swings and Touch of Purple.

For a complete list of vendors and exhibitors, visit http://portlandcompany.com/flower.

Lectures are held throughout the show. On Saturday, March 7, they begin with “Lilac Adventures” at 10:30 a.m.; “Magic of the Medicinal Plants” at noon; container gardening at 1:30 p.m. and at 3 p.m. a lecture on growing and using herbs.

Sunday's informative lineup includes: Bee friendly landscapes using permaculture designs at 10:30 a.m., deciding on the right sized flower garden for you at noon and taking care of your woods at 2:30 p.m.

Last year's garden lovers were treated to “Storybook Gardens,” the landscaping and design competition. This year,'s competition will feature 13 gardens, built during the five days prior to the night of the gala.

Believers in flower power will be able to vote for their favorite garden throughout the event. The winner of the 2014 people's choice award will be announced on Sunday at 2 p.m.

Advance general admission tickets can be bought through the website for $13 and $15 at the door. Tickets for seniors, aged 65 and up are $10. Children 12 and under, accompanied by a parent or guardian are admitted free.

Hours on Friday and Saturday are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

The flower show is held at 58 Fore Street, at the Portland Company Complex in Portland.

For more information, visit the website or call 207-775-4403.