Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a Sight to Behold
Every spring, the Skagit Valley comes alive with color as millions of tulips burst into bloom.
The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a beloved Pacific Northwest tradition, drawing visitors from near and far to celebrate the season’s arrival. Held each April, the festival transforms the valley into a patchwork of brilliant hues, where endless rows of tulips stretch to the horizon.
What to Know
What to Expect
No single farm is designated as an official destination, so you can pick one or tour a few during your visit. Check out venues such as Skagit Acres, RoozenGaarde, Tulip Town, Garden Rosalyn, and Tulip Valley Farms. You can buy tickets online or at the gate.
One of the more popular farms, Tulip Town, gets very busy, so arrive early to make the most of the trip (finding a parking spot can take some time). Once through the entrance, there is a fairground vibe, with several booths selling crafts and sweets. Families with small children wait in line to get their faces painted or look at kites in the kite shop. Wading through the chaos can be a little difficult, but once you make it outside to the massive fields, you'll be overwhelmed by the beautiful display of colorful tulips.
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There are many other fields to explore along the valley. Another favorite is the 50-acre RoozenGaarde, the largest of the Skagit Valley tulip gardens, which features tens of millions of tulips in a variety of colors. You can explore a map of the area where all the fields are listed by flower variety. There are typically plenty of activities, too, such as trolley rides and kite shows. Don't forget to stop for a snack at one of the food booths, purchase some gifts, and grab a print of this year's poster. Every year, the poster is designed by a new artist and reproduced on postcards, magnets, hand towels, and more.
Check the festival website for the most up-to-date information.
Getting There & How to Prepare
The Skagit Valley is about 1.5 hours north of Seattle Southside by car, making it a great day trip. If you're flying or driving into the area, there are many affordable hotels right near the airport where you can post up and, if needed, rent a car.
Come prepared with rain boots and coats, as the fields can get muddy and the weather is unpredictable in April. It's also wise to bring cash, as some venues or vendors may not accept credit cards. Many people love to use the Tulip Festival as a photo opportunity, so keep that in mind when getting dressed (or dressing kids).
Great for Families
The festival is super family-friendly, with easy paths for little ones to run down and photo ops galore. In addition to the floral splendor, you'll see giant Dutch windmills and fun wooden shoes that make for fun photo backdrops. Tulip Town has a festive trolley ride and a beer and wine garden. Many farms offer bites and sweets (and some have beer and wine for grown-ups). Garden Rosalyn, one of the smaller farms, has a sweet pond with ducks and geese that tots will love. Tulip Valley Farms offers U-pick fields if you've got a kid who can't resist picking beautiful blooms. There are also lots of fun family-friendly things to do nearby.
