Holland, Michigan May 6-14, 2023. This eight-day annual festival is an experience unlike any other featuring nearly 6 million tulips of various styles and colors blooming throughout the city and area attractions. They’re planted along the streets of the 6 miles dubbed “Tulip Lanes”, as well as in public parks, at attractions like Windmill Island Gardens, and along the boutiques on 8th Street. Over 5 million more tulips are blooming at Veldheers Tulip Farm, just a short drive from downtown! This festival has been held in mid-May since 1929 and is the largest tulip festival in the United States, millions of people have gathered to enjoy this festival which celebrates Dutch Heritage.
Tulip Time offers a host of new cultural experiences. Have you ever seen a thousand people dancing in wooden shoes? Holland is full of fascinating Dutch culture! During your stay, try authentic Dutch foods at a Dutch market, watch how wooden shoes are carefully carved, also learn about the historic windmills. One of the highlights of Tulip Time for many is watching the Klompen Dances. Dancers of all ages perform Dutch folk dances in colorful period costumes. See the dance schedule here because you won’t want to miss it!
Want to experience more classic Tulip Time fun? Rides, food, and fun for all ages can be found at the Tulip Time Carnival which starts Friday @ 5pm. Shoppers and art enthusiasts love the Arts and Crafts Fair that exhibits over 230 fantastic artists showing their beautiful and creative offerings. For some more entertainment, Tulip Time attracts a variety of fantastic talent nationally, regionally, and locally. Music, comedy, and theater shows are open throughout the week!
Like all good festivals, there are parades. Tulip Time has not one but two parades: the Volksparade (people’s choice parade) is Saturday, May 13 at 1-3pm, the Kinderparade (children’s parade) is Thursday May 11 at 2-3pm. Every year, thousands of spectators line the parade route through downtown Holland on all three occasions to enjoy beautiful floats, music, Dutch dancers, and so much more!
At the close of the week, the Tulip Time Festival goes out with a bang—literally! The final day of Tulip Time is celebrated with live music, great food, and a spectacular firework show in Kollen Park. With its Dutch heritage at the core of its identity, Holland offers unique views you can’t get anywhere else in Michigan.
You will have lots of picture taking opportunities in Holland’s lakeshore community. There’s nothing like looking up from the tulips at Windmill Island Gardens and seeing the vintage windmill jutting into the sky. For other shots, head downtown for a great view of Holland’s streets and art galleries. If you want a cool artsy shot, take a journey to Big Red Lighthouse, dubbed Michigan’s most photographed lighthouse.
For more information, event dates, and maps, visit the Tulip Time website.
For a luxurious stay and warm hospitality after long days of festival fun, book your stay at PrairieSide Suites Bed & Breakfast. Located in Grandville, it’s a short 20 minute drive from all the Tulip Time events but removed enough to be quiet, relaxing, and rejuvenating. We have romantic jacuzzi suites and we provide FREE room service breakfast delivery every morning. We’re looking forward to your stay!
