Just as Venice and Amsterdam are today, Milan was once a city of canals.

A remainder of that system, the Naviglio Grande, is the site of a one-day annual event, Fiori e Sapori, taking place on Sunday, April 14. Alongside the canal, more than 200 florists from throughout Italy will create stunning displays of plants and flowers. The most stunning of these compositions will receive a prize. Visitors who are inspired by the sea of color can pick up some blooms to take home and plant in their own gardens.

Shops and artists’ galleries along the canal will be open. The event will run from about 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Entry is free.