IPM Essen, the world's leading horticultural trade fair, taking place from January 27-30, 2026, at Messe Essen in Germany, will, this time, receive a tropical infusion as it hosts the 'Spirit of Aloha', an immersive celebration of Hawaiian floral artistry. This will take attendees on a journey through Hawai'i's rich floral heritage, led by accomplished floral designers Sue Tabbal-Yamaguchi (AIFD, EMC) and Brenna Quan (AIFD).
A Cultural Showcase at the World’s Premier Horticultural Event
Renowned as the premier meeting point for the horticultural sector, the IPM Essen 2026 edition is already shaping up to be really impressive, with approximately 1,400 exhibitors from over 45 countries and an anticipated 40,000 attendees expected to take part. The fair represents the full horticultural value chain, with this year's event expected to feature international plant diversity, new cultivars, trend-setting floral design showcases, live demonstrations, competitions, and forward-looking forums.
This dynamic environment, which offers a perfect backdrop for the ‘Spirit of Aloha,’ provides those attending the event with a unique opportunity for a cultural experience blending commerce, creativity, and tradition. And with the 'Spirit of Aloha' making a presence, the presentations offer participants an opportunity to engross themselves in the Hawaiian floral heritage through the efforts of the expert designers keen on honoring and innovating within this rich tradition.
The Floral Brains Behind the ‘Spirit of Aloha'
Sue and Brenna, two internationally recognized floral designers, will lead the showcase, bringing their expertise and cultural appreciation to their craft. Sue, herself, hailing from Hawai'i, carries the voice of the islands' floral traditions, while Brenna, a Canadian tropical flower ambassador, brings a complementary perspective that highlights the global appeal of Hawaiian floristry.
The duo will be welcomed to the IPM Flower Stage in Hall 5 by Björn Kroner, an acclaimed television personality and floral expert who is the local German host. Björn's involvement in this case means European audiences will fully appreciate the nuances and significance of Hawaiian floral culture.
What One Can Expect
The 'Spirit of Aloha' is designed to be more than just a floral showcase, featuring an evocative journey of the Hawaiian floral scene. One can, therefore, expect to experience several key elements that capture the essence of the islands’ floral culture.
One of the key showcases is of floral compositions inspired by the Hawaiian lei. These traditional garlands hold great cultural significance in the islands. They represent many themes, including love, honor, welcoming, celebration, and connection. The showcase is expected to feature the technical skills required to create these pieces and also the traditions they typify.
Their presentation will also capture the distinctive colors and rhythms of island life through unique styling approaches. From the brilliant colors of the flowers to the subtle textures of tropical foliage, the designers tell stories about the Hawaiian way of life, showing how these elements can be translated into contemporary floral pieces.
There will also be a narrative journey tracing aspects of Hawai'i's floral history, helping one understand it thoroughly, thus gaining an appreciation for how island traditions have evolved while maintaining their essence. Perhaps most importantly, the presentation also embodies expressions of heritage, innovation, and the famous aloha spirit itself, a concept that infuses every aspect of Hawaiian culture, including the approach to nature and floral artistry.
Why This Matters for the Global Floral Industry
The horticultural industry is increasingly interconnected, and events like the ‘Spirit of Aloha’ are important, showing how regional traditions can inform and inspire international practices, how cultural heritage can coexist with commercial innovation, and how the horticultural sector can celebrate diversity in all its forms.
For those attending the fair, these presentations offer fresh perspectives on tropical flowers, design approaches, and the storytelling potential of floral arrangements. It is an opportunity to see all the elements in new contexts and understand the fullness of cultural authenticity.
The ‘Spirit of Aloha’ Promises to Be an Unforgettable Highlight
The ‘Spirit of Aloha’ is made possible with the support of presenting sponsors Magic Flowers and FM Group. It is coordinated through the Association Resource Center in Sacramento, California, which has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, connecting Hawaiian floral culture with the international horticultural community.
Presented at one of the world’s leading and most influential horticultural events, the ‘Spirit of Aloha’ honors Hawai‘i’s floral legacy and invites global audiences to experience its beauty on an unforgettable stage. It offers a moment to pause and appreciate the creativity, culture, and connection that the Hawaiian floral culture has to offer.
For those keen on attending IPM Essen 2026, be sure to experience not just the featured showcases but also the chance to feel the warmth, beauty, and cultural richness of the Hawaiian Islands. You definitely should start making your plans to attend now!
When & Where to Watch?
If your interest has risen for this exotic floral event, put it in your agenda to be at the IPM Flower Stage in Hall 5 on:
- Tuesday, 27 January from 13.00-13.45
or - Wednesday, 28 January from 14.30-15.15
That's when you will not miss a thing!
Header image by @kaleipuupuu. More photos by @brenna_quan and @suvexpressions.
