ATLANTA, Ga. - One of the top flower and garden events in the country, the 15th annual Southeastern Flower Show bursts into full bloom Feb. 20 - Feb. 24, 2002 at the Atlanta Esposition Center. This year's theme will be "Garden Treasures."

The show features 30 landscape and educational gardens, 1,500 judged entries, speakers, demonstrations, workshops, a 100-booth marketplace and a bookstore filled with the latest in gardening literature.

The following is a preview of the show's special events:

Opening Night Party - Tuesday, Feb. 19

The show's exclusive, black tie preview party features find food from the Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, cocktails and entertainment.

Tea at the Flower Show - By Reservation

Back by popular demand, the SFS Tearoom by the Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta will provide visitors with the opportunity to relax and enjoy a delicious variety of petite sandwiches, crumpets, and a fine selection of imported teas served in the English tradition. Tearoom seatings will be held daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. Due to limited availablity, seating is by reservation only.

Family Frolic - Friday, Feb. 22

Children, parents, grandparents and teachers are invited to share the fun and wonder of gardening during this special family event. A wide variety of hands-on activities and entertainment including arts and crafts, flower arranging, storytelling, a garden treasure hunt and more.

Guided Tours at the Flower Show - Daily

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with expert tour guides every day of the show. Early Morning Tours offer a chance to see the floral displays and gardens up close before the doors open and the crowds arrive. New for 2002, Afternoon Tours offers the perfect excuse to take an early break from work and enjoy the show as the crowds thin. Tours are by advance reservation and include show admission, light refreshments and parking pass.

Marketplace - Daily

The Southeastern Flower Show's Marketplace is home to unique decorating accessories for home and garden, tools, supplies, books, paintings, antiques and a bountiful supply of fresh flowers and plants. More than 90 of the region's top garden shops and Southern craftsmen will tempt visitors with innovative garden treasures.

Tickets are available online and by calling the show's ticket hotline at (404) 888-5511. For more information, visit www.flowershow.org or call the show office at (404) 888-5638.