The Ultimate Guide to Canadian Tulip Festivals & Road Trip Adventures

1 The History of Tulip Festivals in Canada

The tradition of tulip festivals in Canada dates back to World War II. The most famous festival, the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa, began in 1953 as a symbol of gratitude from the Netherlands. During the war, Canada provided shelter to the Dutch royal family, and in return, the Netherlands sent thousands of tulip bulbs as a gift. This gesture blossomed into an annual festival, celebrating Canadian-Dutch friendship and the beauty of tulips.

Over time, tulip festivals have spread across the country, particularly in British Columbia, where the climate is ideal for growing these beautiful flowers. Now, Canadians and visitors alike can explore multiple tulip festivals from coast to coast.

2 Top Canadian Tulip Festivals & Road Trip Ideas

Ontario

1. Canadian Tulip Festival – Ottawa, Ontario

Location: Commissioners Park, Ottawa
Time: Annually in May
Highlights:

• • Over a million tulips in bloom
  • Historical exhibits, live performances, and interactive workshops
  • Unique attractions like the Blacklight Boardwalk and free flight simulator

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Ottawa – Visit Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal.
• Gatineau Park (30 min drive) – Enjoy stunning nature trails and viewpoints.
• Montreal (2-hour drive) – Experience Old Montreal, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife.
• Prince Edward County (3-hour drive) – Explore wineries, beaches, and charming towns.

Quebec

2. Gatineau Tulip Festival

Location: Gatineau, Quebec (Part of the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa)
Time: Early to Late May
Highlights:

• Over 1 million tulips in bloom
• Best spots: Jacques Cartier Park & Major’s Hill Park
• Cultural performances, food vendors, and historical exhibits

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Ottawa – Visit Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal.
• Gatineau Park (30 min drive) – Enjoy scenic nature trails and viewpoints.
• Montebello (1-hour drive) – Explore Château Montebello, the world’s largest log cabin.
• Montreal (2-hour drive) – Experience Old Montreal, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife.

3. Tulipes.ca (U-Pick Fields)

Location: Boucherville, Quebec
Time: Early to Mid-May
Highlights:

• 600,000+ multicolored tulips
• Self-picking experience
• Ideal for photography and family outings

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Montreal – Walk through Old Montreal and grab a coffee at Café Olimpico.
• Boucherville (30 min drive) – Pick your own tulips at Tulipes.ca fields.
• Parc National des Îles-de-Boucherville (15 min drive) – Hike or rent a kayak to explore the islands.
• Quebec City (2.5-hour drive) – Visit Château Frontenac and the historic Old Town.

4. Tulips U-Pick in Laval

Location: Laval, Quebec
Time: Early to Mid-May
Highlights:

• 500,000+ tulips in different colors
• Pick-your-own bouquet
• Family-friendly atmosphere

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Montreal – Brunch in the Plateau and stroll through Mount Royal Park.
• Laval (25 min drive) – Visit the tulip fields and pick your own bouquet.
• Centropolis Laval (10 min drive) – Enjoy shopping, dining, or an escape room experience.
• Laurentian Mountains (1-hour drive) – End the day with scenic drives and hiking in Mont-Tremblant.

5. Old Port of Montreal Tulip Festival

Location: Old Port, Montreal (Rue de la Commune & Rue du Quai King-Edward)
Time: Early May
Highlights:

• 600,000 tulips available for self-picking
• Unique urban tulip festival
• Great for Mother’s Day gifts

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Montreal – Explore the Old Port and its vibrant markets.
• Mont Saint-Hilaire (45 min drive) – Hike up for panoramic views of the Richelieu Valley.
• Eastern Townships (1-hour drive) – Visit vineyards and charming towns like Magog or Sutton.
• Quebec City (2.5-hour drive) – Explore historic streets and waterfalls at Montmorency Falls.

British Columbia

6. Bloom Flower Festival – Armstrong, British Columbia

Location: Armstrong, Northern Okanagan
Time: Mid-April to Early May
Highlights:

• Previously the Abbotsford Tulip Festival, now in Armstrong
• Features tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths
• U-pick areas and fresh-cut flowers for purchase

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Armstrong – Discover local farms and historic sites.
• Vernon (30 min drive) – Visit Okanagan Lake and Davison Orchards.
• Kelowna (1-hour drive) – Enjoy wine tasting and lakeside views.
• Revelstoke (2.5-hour drive) – Explore waterfalls, hiking trails, and a charming mountain town.

7. Chilliwack Tulip Festival – Chilliwack, British Columbia

Location: Chilliwack, BC
Time: Late April to Early May
Highlights:

• Western Canada’s largest tulip festival
• Previously known as “Tulips of the Valley”
• Stunning farmland views with millions of tulips in bloom

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Chilliwack – Visit Cultus Lake and Bridal Veil Falls.
• Harrison Hot Springs (40 min drive) – Relax in natural hot pools.
• Hope (1-hour drive) – Explore the scenic Othello Tunnels and Fraser Canyon.
• Vancouver (1.5-hour drive) – Experience Stanley Park, Granville Island, and downtown adventures.

8. Harrison Tulip Festival – Harrison Hot Springs (Seabird Island), British Columbia

Location: Seabird Island, near Agassiz
Time: Early April to Early May
Highlights:

• Previously the Chilliwack Tulip Festival, relocated in 2023
• Named “Canada’s Largest Tulip Festival”
• Awarded “World’s Most Instagrammable Tulip Farm” at the World Tulip Summit

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Harrison Hot Springs – Enjoy hot pools and lakeside dining.
• Agassiz (15 min drive) – Visit local farms and cheese makers.
• Hope (30 min drive) – Hike scenic trails and waterfalls.
• Whistler (3-hour drive via Fraser Valley & Sea-to-Sky Highway) – Experience British Columbia’s famous mountain resort.

Alberta

9. Millarville Flower Festival

Location: Millarville, Alberta
Time: Mid-July
Highlights:

• Celebrates its 60th annual event in 2024.
• Features a traditional tea service with freshly brewed tea and scones.
• Hosted at the historic Christ Church, offering a touch of English tradition.
• A great blend of flowers, community, and history.

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Calgary – Explore the city’s gardens like Reader Rock Garden or Devonian Gardens.
• Millarville (45 min drive) – Attend the festival and enjoy the tea service.
• Kananaskis Country (30 min drive) – Hike scenic trails and take in breathtaking mountain views.
• Banff (1.5-hour drive) – Visit the iconic Lake Louise and explore Banff’s wildflower-filled meadows.

10. Alberta Dahlia and Glad Society Flower Show

Location: Red Deer, Alberta
Time: Late August
Highlights:

• Annual flower show celebrating dahlias and gladiolus.
• Includes a ‘Summer Celebration’ in early August with activities and courses.
• Hosted at the Piper Creek Trial Garden, perfect for flower enthusiasts.

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Edmonton – Visit the Muttart Conservatory and explore the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.
• Red Deer (1.5-hour drive) – Enjoy the vibrant flower show and local markets.
• Sylvan Lake (30 min drive) – Relax by the beach, enjoy water activities, and explore the town’s cafés.
• Drumheller (2-hour drive) – End the trip with a visit to the stunning badlands and the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

11. Lady Flower Gardens Fall Festival

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Time: Early September
Highlights:

• A community-focused event celebrating the harvest season.
• Perfect for families and nature lovers.
• Hands-on activities in an urban garden setting.

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Edmonton – Visit Lady Flower Gardens and experience the festival.
• Elk Island National Park (45 min drive) – Spot bison, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a peaceful nature escape.
• Vermilion (2-hour drive) – Explore Vermilion Provincial Park, known for its wildflowers and birdwatching.
• Lloydminster (1-hour drive) – Cross into Saskatchewan and explore this unique border city.

12. Calgary Lilac Festival

Location: Calgary, Alberta
Time: Early June
Highlights:

• A vibrant street festival marking the start of Calgary’s festival season.
• Features musical talent, artisan vendors, and food stalls.
• Attracts over 100,000 attendees each spring.

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Start in Calgary – Explore the festival, then take a stroll along Prince’s Island Park.
• Bragg Creek (45 min drive) – Visit this charming town and hike through the foothills.
• Canmore (1-hour drive) – Experience breathtaking mountain scenery and explore local boutiques.
• Lake Minnewanka & Banff (1.5-hour drive) – Enjoy lake views, wildlife, and the beauty of the Rockies.

Manitoba

13. Manitoba Sunflower Festival – Altona, Manitoba

Location: Altona, MB
Time: Late July
Highlights:

• Celebration of the sunflower harvest with parades, live music, and cultural exhibits
• Family-friendly activities, including a midway and artisan markets
• Showcases local art, cuisine, and agricultural heritage

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Winnipeg: Start your journey by exploring the vibrant arts scene and historic sites.
• Altona (1.5-hour drive): Attend the Sunflower Festival and enjoy local festivities.
• Morden (1-hour drive): Visit the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre and local wineries.
• Riding Mountain National Park (3-hour drive): Experience hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic landscapes.
  

Saskatchewan

14. Fantastical Flora – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Location: 948 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon, SK S7K 3H6
Time: October
Highlights:

• A unique event blending dance and floral artistry
• Performances inspired by various floral themes
• Hosted by Dance Saskatchewan, showcasing local talent

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• • Saskatoon: Begin by exploring the city’s vibrant arts scene and riverfront parks.
  • Prince Albert National Park (2-hour drive): Experience boreal forests, wildlife, and recreational activities.
  • Waskesiu Lake: Enjoy water activities and scenic trails within the national park.
  • Batoche National Historic Site (1-hour drive): Delve into Métis history and culture.
    

15. SGGA Grower Expo & New Blooms Saskatchewan – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Location: Saskatoon, SK
Time: June
Highlights:

• Green trades supplier showcase
• Educational sessions and networking opportunities for growers
• Focus on new floral varieties and greenhouse innovations

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Saskatoon: Attend the expo and visit local attractions like the Meewasin Valley Trail.
• Moose Jaw (4-hour drive): Explore the Tunnels of Moose Jaw and local spas.
• Regina (2.5-hour drive): Visit the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and Wascana Centre.
• Grasslands National Park (6-hour drive): Experience prairie landscapes and stargazing opportunities.
  

Nova Scotia

16. Nova Scotia Flower Festival – Upper Onslow, Nova Scotia

Location: RiverBreeze Farm, 660 Onslow Rd, Upper Onslow, NS
Time: August to September
Highlights:

• Expansive fields featuring sunflowers, zinnias, dahlias, and cosmos
• U-pick flower opportunities for visitors
• Scenic photo opportunities amidst colorful blooms
• Introduction of wine slushie flights for a refreshing experience

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Upper Onslow: Begin by exploring the vibrant flower fields at RiverBreeze Farm.
• Truro (10-minute drive): Visit the Truro Botanical Garden and enjoy local eateries.
• Shubenacadie Wildlife Park (30-minute drive): Experience native wildlife in natural habitats.
• Halifax (1-hour drive): Explore the Halifax Public Gardens and the bustling waterfront.
  

17. Apple Blossom Festival – Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Location: Various venues across the Annapolis Valley
Time: Late May
Highlights:

• Celebration of the region’s apple blossoms and agricultural heritage
• Parades, concerts, and community events
• Family-friendly activities and local food vendors

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Annapolis Valley: Start with festival events and orchard tours.
• Wolfville (20-minute drive): Visit local wineries and the Acadia University Art Gallery.
• Grand-Pré National Historic Site (10-minute drive): Explore Acadian history and scenic landscapes.
• Kejimkujik National Park (1.5-hour drive): Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and stargazing opportunities.
  

18. Tulips! Tulips! Tulips! – The Petal Farm, Nova Scotia

Location: The Petal Farm, Nova Scotia
Time: April
Highlights:

• Fresh-cut bouquets of locally grown tulips
• Assorted colors and varieties available for purchase

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• The Petal Farm: Begin by selecting a bouquet of vibrant tulips.
• Nearby Coastal Trails: Enjoy scenic walks along Nova Scotia’s picturesque coastline.
• Local Cafés and Artisan Shops: Explore nearby towns for unique dining and shopping experiences.
  

New Brunswick

19. Tulip Festival at Trueman Blueberry Farms – Aulac, New Brunswick

Location: Trueman Blueberry Farms, 255 Etter Ridge Rd, Aulac​
Time: May
Highlights:

• Acres of vibrant tulip fields open for exploration​
• Scenic train rides through the tulip fields​
• U-pick tulip opportunities and a variety of outdoor activities​
• Delicious treats, including freshly baked goods and homemade ice cream​

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Aulac: Enjoy the tulip festival and farm activities.​
• Sackville (15-minute drive): Explore the Sackville Waterfowl Park and local art galleries.​
• Moncton (30-minute drive): Visit Magnetic Hill and enjoy city attractions.​
• Fundy National Park (1-hour drive): Experience coastal hiking trails and the famous Bay of Fundy tides.
  

Newfoundland and Labrador

20. Newfoundland Tulip Festival – Bay Roberts, Newfoundland and Labrador

Location: Bay Roberts
Time: June
Highlights:

• Third annual celebration of tulips in the region​
• Community events, local crafts, and cultural exhibits​
• Scenic coastal views complementing the floral displays

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Bay Roberts: Explore the tulip festival and local heritage sites.​
• Brigus (15-minute drive): Visit historic sites and enjoy coastal scenery.​
• St. John’s (1-hour drive): Experience the vibrant city life, including Signal Hill and George Street.​
• Cape Spear (1.5-hour drive): Stand at the easternmost point of North America and explore the lighthouse.
  

Prince Edward Island

21. Belfast Tulips – Belfast, PEI

Location: 5265 Trans-Canada Highway, Route 1, Belfast, PEI
Time: Late May to early June
Highlights:

• PEI’s only Tulip U-Pick experience, featuring 4.5 acres with millions of tulips.
• Visitors can stroll through vibrant tulip fields and pick their own bouquets.
• Special events included painting sessions with East Coast Art Party and mini photography sessions with Shots By Monty.

🚗 Road Trip Idea:

• Belfast: Begin by exploring the tulip fields at Belfast Tulips.
• Charlottetown (30-minute drive): Visit the historic downtown, enjoy local cuisine, and explore Victoria Park.
• Points East Coastal Drive: Experience scenic coastal views, lighthouses, and beaches.
• Wood Islands (15-minute drive from Belfast): Explore the Wood Islands Lighthouse and enjoy seaside views.
  

3 Preparing Your Car for a Spring Road Trip

Before embarking on your tulip festival road trip, make sure your car is ready for the journey. Here are some essential tips:

✅ Check Your Tires

• Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread.
• If you’re traveling from colder regions, consider swapping winter tires for all-season or summer tires.

✅ Oil and Fluids

• Check your engine oil level and schedule an oil change if needed.
• Refill windshield washer fluid and coolant.

✅ Battery & Brakes

• Have your battery tested to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Carry a jump starter and replace the battery, if needed.
• Ensure your brake pads and rotors are in good condition.

✅ Pack Essentials

• Roadside emergency kit (jumper cables, flashlight, first-aid kit)
• Snacks, water, and blankets
• Phone charger and GPS or offline maps

4 Conclusion

Canada’s tulip festivals are a spectacular way to welcome spring, offering stunning floral displays, cultural celebrations, and unforgettable road trip experiences. Whether you’re exploring Ottawa’s historic tulips or venturing through British Columbia’s scenic landscapes, these festivals provide the perfect backdrop for an adventure. So, pack up your car, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Canada’s tulip season! 🌷🚗✨