The Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa is one of Canada's most beloved annual events — and it's the largest tulip festival in the world. Every May, millions of tulips bloom across Ottawa's parks and public spaces, drawing visitors from across the country and around the world.
When is the Ottawa Tulip Festival?
The Canadian Tulip Festival typically runs for approximately two weeks in May, timed to align with Ottawa's peak tulip bloom. In recent years, it has run from roughly the second week of May through the Victoria Day long weekend (the Monday before May 25). Exact dates vary by year, so check the official festival website (tulipfestival.ca) for current year dates.
Where Are the Tulips?
The tulips are spread across several Ottawa locations, with the main displays at:
- Commissioner's Park at Dow's Lake: The centrepiece of the festival. Hundreds of thousands of tulips line the park in spectacular colour arrangements, with Dow's Lake as a backdrop. This is the must-see location.
- Major's Hill Park near Parliament Hill: Another major display that's beautifully photogenic with Parliament in the background.
- Confederation Park downtown: Complementary display in the heart of the city.
- Various other NCC parks and median gardens throughout Ottawa.
History of the Tulip Festival
The tradition began after World War II, when the Dutch royal family sent 100,000 tulip bulbs to Ottawa in gratitude for Canada sheltering Princess Juliana and her family during the German occupation. Ottawa has continued the tradition ever since, and the Netherlands sends bulbs to Ottawa annually as a symbol of the friendship between the two countries.
Tips for Visiting
- Go on a weekday: Commissioner's Park gets very crowded on festival weekends
- Peak bloom is usually in the second week of May but varies with weather
- Bring a camera — the Canal backdrop at Commissioner's Park is one of Ottawa's most photogenic spots
- Admission to the outdoor displays is generally free; some festival events are ticketed
For more spring activities, check things to do in Ottawa, browse Ottawa events this weekend, or see family things to do in Ottawa — the Tulip Festival is excellent for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ottawa Tulip Festival free? The outdoor tulip displays at Commissioner's Park, Major's Hill Park, and other locations are generally free to visit. Some specific festival events, concerts, or experiences may be ticketed. Check tulipfestival.ca for the current year's pricing.
How many tulips are in Ottawa during the festival? Approximately one million tulip bulbs bloom across Ottawa each year during the festival, with Commissioner's Park featuring the most concentrated and spectacular display.
Why does the Netherlands give tulips to Ottawa? The tradition began after World War II. Canada provided refuge to the Dutch Royal Family during the German occupation, and Princess Margriet was born in Ottawa. In gratitude, the Netherlands sent bulbs after the war — a tradition that continues today.
What should I do if the tulips aren't blooming yet when I visit? Bloom timing depends on spring temperatures. If you're visiting in early May, check the NCC's tulip bloom tracker online. Even before peak bloom, Ottawa in spring is beautiful, and Dow's Lake and the Canal are worth visiting.
