Annual Sacramento begonia show, sale returns to Shepard Center

They can be fuzzy or smooth, patterned or plain, but always interesting. And that’s just their leaves! Their flowers can be impressive, too.

Begonias represent one of the largest families of perennial flowering plants with an estimated 2,040 species. No wonder these shade-loving ornamental plants can be endlessly fascinating.

Get hooked on begonias at the annual Sacramento Begonia Show and Sale, set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 7 and 8, at Shepard Garden and Arts Center.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission and parking are free.

Filling Shepard Center with rare and unusual plants, this event is hosted by the Joan Coulat-Sacramento Branch of the American Begonia Society. The local chapter turned 76 years old in 2024, inspiring the show’s theme – “The Spirit of ’76.”

“This special event will feature a spectacular display of begonias and a sale of over 1,000 begonias,” say the organizers. “Come early to ensure the best selection of these beautiful plants.

“During the weekend show, our knowledgeable members will be available to answer your questions and provide advice on growing begonias,” they add.

Love begonias? New members are always welcome to join this club, which meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at Shepard Center.

Located in the northeast end of McKinley Park, Shepard Center is at 3330 McKinley Blvd. in the East Sacramento neighborhood.