2012 Theme

May 4th through May 21st 2012

Immerse yourself in a mosaic of astonishing tulips as spring comes alive in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Tulip Festival.

 The scent of nature’s first blooms surrounds you as the city awakens and reminds you of its true beauty. As you pass by the extraordinary flower beds, you see the beauty within each individual tulip. Over one million tulips in more than 50 varieties will bring a myriad of color throughout the National Capital Region. The highest concentration tulips – some 300,000, can be found in Commissioners Park. Festival shuttle services along the Tulip Route will allow visitors to view spectacular multi-colored tulip beds and gardens along the canal or visitors can take the Tulip Tour through the Capital region.

The tulips have become an important symbol of international friendship and spring, and have special meaning to the people of Canada. The Canadian Tulip Festival celebrates its long 60 year heritage while continuing to foster its commitment to the city that has made it the largest Tulip showcase in the world. With the support of local artists, artisans, musicians and schools, the festival preserves the legacy of the gift of the tulip to all Canadians.