It’s Tulip Time!

Every year during the first week in May, more than 500,000 visitors gather in the town of Holland, Michigan to experience the magic of Tulip Time. It is a spectacle, in the most delightful sense of the word—more than 5 million colorful blooms blanket the town, which for nine days, turns into a wonderland celebrating Dutch culture and the flowers that put this town on the map.

Speaking of maps, located just three and a half hours from Indianapolis (approximately midway between Chicago and Detroit), Holland is an easy drive from most major cities in the midwest. Dubbed one of “America’s prettiest towns” by Forbes magazine, its year-round walkability, small-town charm, and the world-famous Tulip Time festival makes it a top destination for travelers.

In celebration of Tulip Time’s 90th anniversary, the city will “paint the town orange” so this year, expect to see hues of peach and apricot abound. The festivities kick off on May 4 with a fun run, vintage baseball games, garden walks, concerts, tours, and more—and that’s just day one. Other highlights in the lineup include an appearance by Jay Leno, three parades, yoga classes, fireworks and of course, hundreds of Dutch dancers.

With nine full days of nothing but experiences to delight the senses, it’s not unlikely that among the excitement one might not stop to think about how it all began. According to the festival’s history records, it all goes back to 1927 when, at a Woman’s Literary Club meeting, a biology teacher by the name of Lida Rogers suggested that the town adopt the tulip as its flower. In addition, Ms. Rogers proposed that a day be set aside a day for a festival and tulips be planted in every resident’s yard. The following year, the city appropriated funds to purchase 100,000 tulip bulbs from the Netherlands that were then planted in city parks and other areas. By 1929 visitors began flocking to Holland to see the tulips and have been doing so ever since. Here’s what you can expect from a visit in 2019.

For a more in-depth education on the history of Tulip Time, step aboard the Tulip City Tours trolley where a Dutch-costumed guide will narrate as you ride through Holland’s downtown, the historic district, city parks and more.

Looking to squeeze in a bit of exercise before the indulging begins? Sign up for the Tulip Time Run taking place on May 4. Choose from a 5k, 10k, or 15k and take in the sights by foot, beginning and ending in Kollen Park. If you prefer a slower pace work out, register for Yoga in the Tulips, an hour long, outdoor yoga class for all levels at Window on the Waterfront park.

During Tulip Time, your days can be chock-full with activities, though most can take place at your own pace—on land or water. Let your inner child play at the carnival or work your way through the Dutch Marktplaats where you can shop Dutch-inspired wares, witness live wooden shoe carvings, and watch Klompen dancing. Explore the tall ship, Friends Good Will, a replica Great Lakes sloop from 1810 owned and operated by the Michigan Maritime Museum or “set sail” on the Lindy Lou, an electric powered replica river launch.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of Holland’s many award-winning breweries or secure a ticket at Boatwerks, one of the town’s premier waterfront restaurants, which will be offering a four-course dinner on select nights throughout Tulip Time. After dinner, depending on the night, catch one of many options for entertainment from a performance by Hotel California - The Original Eagles Tribute Band, a comedy improv show, or some good old-fashioned fireworks.  

Of course, Tulip Time isn’t the only attraction in Holland. The more than 1,800 acres of parks alone offer opportunities for bicycling, hiking, and playing. And Holland’s proximity to Lakes Michigan and Macatawa provides endless opportunities for water play and sports. While you’re near the coast, don’t miss an opportunity to snap a few pics at the Big Red Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark with a long and rich history—something Holland doesn’t fall short on.

For more information on additional area attractions, show and events schedules and more, visit www.tuliptime.com.

Leslie A. Bailey is a lifestyle writer and editor living in Indianapolis, Indiana.