Poinsettia Festival Returns as Orban’s Nursery Celebrates Remarkable Comeback After Dual Hurricanes
Orban’s Nursery, a century-old Bradenton landmark nearly wiped out by two hurricanes in 2024, is celebrating a triumphant recovery with the return of its beloved Poinsettia Festival this Saturday.
The historic family-owned nursery at 9601 9th Avenue NW suffered catastrophic losses when Hurricane Helene’s storm surge flooded the property in September 2024, destroying hundreds of thousands of plants. Weeks later, Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds inflicted additional damage, leaving the future of the business in doubt. In total, the storms caused millions of dollars in losses and forced the nursery to discard 200,000 poinsettias and 100,000 annuals.
The devastation raised fears that the nursery, founded in 1914, might not survive its worst disaster in more than a century. But the community stepped forward in a powerful show of support. More than 200 volunteers arrived after Hurricane Helene to clear debris, working tirelessly to help the nursery recover before Milton arrived.
Their efforts paid off. A year later, rows of deep red, crisp white, and colorful poinsettias once again blanket the greenhouses where floodwaters once pooled. With production restored and spirits high, the Orban family is ready to welcome the public back to its signature event.
The Poinsettia Festival, returning for the first time in two years, will take place Saturday, Nov. 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can shop for poinsettias of every variety, browse craft vendors, enjoy food trucks, and capture holiday photos among the vibrant displays. The festival traditionally marks the nursery's busiest and most festive season.
After enduring back-to-back storms and a long road to recovery, the Orbans view this year’s festival as a milestone. The event stands not only as a celebration of holiday tradition but also as a testament to resilience, community strength, and the enduring legacy of a Bradenton institution that refused to give up.
