Many of us take pride in our cultural heritage, but sadly over the generations that traditions are lost or less frequent for many. This cannot be said of the Dutch. There are many Tulip Festivals that are held throughout North America and even as far outreaching as England, Australia and India. Many immigrants of the Netherlands brought tulips to their new homelands, even though the bulbs were exceedingly expensive at the time, it was a way to bring a little bit of home with them and experience their beauty as the flower every spring.
For many, tulips are the first sign of spring, a welcome beacon of color after the grey and dormant winter. The tulip festivals and their delightful displays are popular tourist attractions. There are many to choose from. One might be close to you are give you a perfect reason for a spring getaway. The Canadian Tulip Festival is held annually in Ottawa, Ontario and claims to be the world’s largest tulip festival. It is here during WWII that the Dutch Royal Family took refuge and Princess Margariet was born in 1943. Every year since her death the royal family has sent tulip bulbs to the festival. Albany, New York’s Tulip Festival takes place in historic Washington Park in May. There are thousands of tulips in varying shades that bloom each year much to the delight of the thousands of visitors.
For far reaching festivals try the Spalding Tulip festival in England. This festival takes place the first Saturday in May with an annual Tulip Parade. The procession of floats is comprised of tulip petals. The Tulip Festival in Srinagar, India takes place in the month of April in the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. It is the largest tulip garden in all of Asia. Due to climactic weather changes over the last decade, the peak blooming of the tulips do not coincide with the actual festivals. Some festivals do move their dates to accommodate this so be sure to check before your visit.
Travel and explore travel with William Bailey Travel. In the U.S. and around the world, take advantage of the cultural and other unique experiences offered by your destination when you travel and make the most of all your experiences.
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