What To Expect From The Canadian Tulip Festival 2025

When most people think of tulips, the Netherlands often comes to mind. But did you know that Canada hosts one of the largest tulip festivals in the world? Ottawa bursts into colour during the Canadian Tulip Festival every May, a stunning floral event combining history, culture, and springtime charm.

This beloved festival, taking place from 9 to 19 May 2025, will transform the capital into a vibrant display of over 300,000 blooming tulips.

Also read: Tulip Festival Amsterdam 2025: Where to See the Netherlands in Full Bloom

More about the Canadian Tulip Festival

The Canadian Tulip Festival is not just about pretty blooms. It is a living symbol of international friendship. After World War II, the Netherlands gifted 100,000 tulip bulbs to Canada to thank the country for sheltering the Dutch royal family and aiding in the liberation of the Netherlands. Each year since, this legacy lives on in Commissioners Park, where many of these tulips continue to bloom, including those in the Queen Juliana Gift Bed which pays tribute to the Dutch princess who once called Ottawa her wartime home.

Top places to visit during the Canadian Tulip Festival

One of the highlights of the Canadian Tulip Festival is exploring the many vibrant spots around Ottawa where tulips are in full bloom. Visitors can look forward to strolling through stunning displays set against historic landmarks, scenic parks, and along charming waterfronts. Whether you’re hoping to capture the perfect photo, enjoy a peaceful walk, or simply soak in the colourful beauty, there are plenty of picturesque places to discover.

1. Commissioners Park

With over 100 varieties of bulbs, Commissioners Park is a showstopper and the major tulip display site. It hosts 30 tulip beds, including the Queen Juliana Gift Bed which features the bulbs donated by the Netherlands. It also has a test bed where landscape architects test new tulips before mass planting them.

2. Along the Rideau Canal

The iconic Rideau Canal corridor is another must-visit during spring. Take a stroll or a spin on the Queen Elizabeth Driveway or the Rideau Canal Western Pathway to see the tulips and catch some amazing sights. This scenic route connects two fantastic places to see the blooms: Commissioners Park and downtown Ottawa.

3. Downtown Ottawa

Even though Parliament Hill may be under construction, there is still plenty to see in the area. Major’s Hill Park is one of the best sites to admire tulips blooming in the spring and it hosts the Tulips of Thanks bed dedicated to front-line workers. To see even more blooms, check out the planters along Confederation Boulevard and the displays at the National War Memorial.

4. Downtown Gatineau

On the Quebec side, beautiful tulip displays can also be found. Areas planted near the Alexandra Bridge, Jacques Cartier Park, and the Canadian Museum of History are well worth a visit. Besides the tulips, these destinations offer magnificent views of the river and Parliament Hill. Plus, they are within walking distance from Major’s Hill Park, making it easy to explore both sides of the Ottawa River.

Other things to do during the Canadian Tulip Festival

1. Catch a free movie screening

This year’s festival brings a full calendar of events for all ages and movie lovers are in for a treat. Throughout the event, visitors can enjoy a fantastic lineup of free movies screened outdoors at the Movie Screens area. From family friendly animations to historical dramas and inspiring war films, the daily schedule promises something for everyone to enjoy. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and settle in for a memorable movie experience under the open sky.

2. Get creative with tulip-themed workshops

Those interested in art and culture should not miss the ArtEast Ottawa Boutique. This boutique will be open daily from May 9 to 19, 10am to 6pm, offering a vibrant range of hands-on art activities for all ages. Visitors can unleash their creativity with tulip tile painting, create charming tulip mini-watercolours or craft colourful paper tulips in various workshops with most activities free or at a minimal cost.

3. Stay active with pilates classes

Festival-goers looking to stay active can join Pilates & Petals, a series of outdoor Pilates mat classes set against the beautiful tulip displays at the Main Stage. Hosted by Club Pilates Westboro, these energising one-hour sessions invite participants to move, stretch, and strengthen while surrounded by vibrant blooms. Simply bring a mat and a water bottle to enjoy a rejuvenating workout that improves flexibility, strengthens core muscles, and promotes mindfulness amid the festive spring atmosphere.

Tips for getting around the Canadian Tulip Festival

Getting around the Canadian Tulip Festival is a breeze, especially for first-time visitors, thanks to the Chartwell People Movers. This convenient service helps you travel easily from the South End of Commissioners Park to the corner of Preston and Queen Elizabeth Drive, making it especially handy for those who park off-site at Carleton University or the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. With rides priced at just C$2 (S$~1.90) per person, the People Movers run daily from 10am to 8pm on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority seating for individuals with mobility issues. It’s the perfect way to shorten your walk and enjoy more time among the blooms.

Also read: 5 Places to See Fall Foliage in Canada

So if you find yourself in Canada this May, visit the Canadian Tulip Festival and let Ottawa’s tulips sweep you off your feet. After all, where else can you wander through living history, soak in riverside views, and enjoy the scent of 300,000 tulips all for free?