By: Jessica Napier
A perennial favourite, the annual tulip blossoming inspires festivals around the world.
Canadian Tulip Festival, Canada
Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, this iconic event is the largest public tulip display of its kind. Taking place from May 13 to 23, the Ottawa festival boasts hundreds of thousands of brightly coloured flowers planted in 30 public gardens across the city. The annual event commemorates the strong bond of friendship forged between Canada and the Netherlands during the Second World War. tulipfestival.net
Keukenhof Tulip Festival, Netherlands
Vibrant floral displays and authentic Dutch traditions await visitors at Holland’s premier tulip festival, held in Lisse each spring. Affectionately known as the Garden of Europe, the sprawling 79-acre botanical garden at Keukenhof Park is open from March 24 to May 15. Locals and visitors alike flock here to admire colourful flower beds containing millions of hand-planted crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths and about 800 different tulip varieties. keukenhof.nl
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, U.S.
Every April for almost 40 years, floral enthusiasts have been descending on Skagit Valley in Washington State, to embark on self-guided driving tours across the region’s fertile farmland as it transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour. This springtime ritual includes a street fair, public art shows and an assortment of tulip-inspired events and activities. tulipfestival.org
Tesselaar Tulip Festival, Australia
Want to see tulips in full bloom later in the year? The Tesselaar Tulip Festival, which takes place near Melbourne, Australia, is the southern hemisphere’s must-see floral event. From September 11 to October 10, the Yarra Valley serves as a breathtaking backdrop for thousands of dazzling petals planted in photogenic rows of rainbow hues. The month-long celebration also offers such family-friendly programming as tractor rides, live entertainment and food pavilions serving traditional Dutch treats. tulipfestival.com.au
Speak with a contact a CAA Travel Consultant or call 1-800-705-1803 to start planning a trip to attend one of these festivals.