A Look At The World’s Largest Tulip Festival

The Festival Canadien des Tulipes, also known as the Canadian Tulip Festival, is the world’s largest tulip festival. Every May, Ottawa and Ontario, Canada celebrate the festival to honor its historic ties to the country’s capital for 11 days. There are over one million tulips on display all over the city. Over 300,000 tulips bloom in Commissioners Park alone.

The beginning of everything

The festival originated from Canada’s role in liberating the Netherlands and hosting the Dutch royal family during WWII. Following the war, the Netherlands began to thank Canada with tulip bulbs. This custom continues up until today. The festival serves as a symbol of international friendship between the Dutch and Canadians.

Malak Karsh, a well-known photographer, proposed the idea of a tulip festival to the Ottawa Board of Trade in 1952. The year after, the inaugural festival happened. Last May, it marks its 70th anniversary.

Annually, the festival offers a lot of activities including exhibits, tours, workshops, movies, and even firework displays for everyone to enjoy.

Things to do during the festival

Commissioners Park

The majority of the tulip beds are on display at Commissioners Park. It is also the festival’s official location. This is the place to go if you want to see the best tulip displays in Ottawa.

Tulip Legacy Walking Tour

The Man with Two Hats in Ottawa is the starting point for this $10 guided tour. The tour guide will basically give an overview and history of the Canadian Tulip Festival.

Pick your own tulips

At Green Corners Farm, you can pick your own tulips for as little as $17. It is also the festival’s official floral supplier.

If you are planning a trip to Canada, do not forget to attend this amazing and colorful celebration!