Fields of colorful flowers, delightful carnival stands, lively parades, and marching band music filling the streets with celebratory sounds. What could be more wonderful? If this scenario sounds like something out of a fairy tale, think again: you’ll find all of these attractions and more at a festival that takes place annually right here in our beloved Great Lakes State.
The Tulip Time Festival happens each May in the charming West Michigan town of Holland, which is situated on the beautiful banks of Lake Michigan.
Since its origins in the 1920s, Tulip Time has attracted visitors from across the globe who are eager to celebrate the region's distinctive Dutch heritage.
Today, the festival will amaze you with its scope. As soon as you enter Holland’s city limits, you’ll be overcome with an undeniable sense of excitement.
Take a stroll down 8th Street, which houses the heart and soul of Tulip Time. Dozens of vendors line the road, much to the delight of townies and tourists alike.
Foot-long corn dogs, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and sugary elephant ears can be found on every corner. Whether your taste buds are longing for a savory meal or a sweet treat, you’ll find a way to hit the spot during Tulip Time.
Once your stomach is satisfied, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Dutch Klompen dance performance. Throughout the week, hundreds of dancers line the streets of Holland and perform in full Dutch garb: wooden shoes and all!
Of course, it’s no secret that flowers are the reason for the season during Tulip Time, and you’ll certainly see your fair share of beautiful tulips. Walk through Centennial Park or peruse one of the city’s many "Tulip Lanes."
While you’re encouraged to take as many photographs as you’d like, the "look but don’t touch" rule is in full effect during Tulip Time. Rumor has it that you can even be fined by the city for damaging a flowerbed!
With each day comes a new parade and a new sense of whimsy. On Wednesday during festival week, Holland residents (and a few special guests) hit the streets with buckets and brooms to "scrub" the roadways for upcoming celebrations.
Other exciting events include the Kinderparade, which features hundreds of adorable schoolchildren in Dutch costumes, and the Muziekparade, where you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of area marching bands.
Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible Holland High School marching band — this talented group of students performs and walks the entire parade route in authentic wooden shoes! Talk about dedication.
But wait: there’s more to enjoy. Tulip Time also comes complete with a thrilling carnival, plenty of special concerts, a 5K run, and even a fireworks display. No matter your age, you’ll find something to love during this celebratory week.
It’s no surprise that this one-of-a-kind festival regularly draws praise from across the globe. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s something undeniably magical about Tulip Time — and you’ll only find it right here in Michigan.
The 2017 Tulip Time festival is slated for May 6-14. For more information about the festival and its many exciting attractions, click here. Can’t you smell those elephant ears already?
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