Travel

Kick Off Spring with These 4 Local Flower Fests

Flowers, flowers everywhere!

By Anna Johansson March 24, 2015

tulipfest

Spring is finally here and with the warm weather comes a burning desire to get outside. If you’ve been bottled up through the long winter months, you’re likely looking for any excuse to spend your days off exploring Seattle’s many outdoor activities. You can pack a lunch and have a picnic in the park, but you might be in the mood for something a little more festive.

The Seattle area is home to multiple festivals announcing the arrival of spring. Whether you want to stay in town or hop in the car for a short day trip, these events are a great way to enjoy the warm weather. You may even get a few ideas for your own landscaping projects.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival—April 1-30—Mount Vernon
Throughout the month of April, the Mount Vernon area hosts events to celebrate the arrival of its famous tulips, which bloom during the festival each year. Events include the Anacortes Spring Wine Festival, Woodfest and a daily Kiwanis Salmon Barbecue. On April 25-26, residents can enjoy exhibits specific to gardening and backyard farming at the Art of Gardening. The event includes food, a sunny beer and wine garden and live entertainment throughout the day. Many of the activities throughout the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival are free so it’s the perfect option for families interested in a low-cost weekend entertainment option. If you want to have a unique tulip festival of experience, consider taking a Tulip Country Bike Tour, available for $40 per adult and $10 per child. Admissions, times, and locations vary by event.
The Daffodil Parade—April 11—Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner and Orting
Each year, Washington residents eagerly await the arrival of the Daffodil Parade to introduce spring. With floats decorated in thousands of fresh daffodils, the parade is a celebration of the area’s history and community. The parade began in 1934 as a celebration of agriculture in the Sumner area. Today the parade makes its way through four cities in Pierce County during one day. Participants include an appointed court of Daffodil Princesses, local businesses, high school marching bands, and other local organizations. Admission: Free. Times: 10:15 a.m. in Tacoma, 12:45 p.m. in Puyallup, 2:30 p.m. in Sumner, and 5 p.m. in Orting.
Treat the moms in your life to a free festival at Seattle’s Pike Place Market. More than 40 vendors will be on site, displaying flowers, produce, and fresh farm products. There’s plenty of entertainment for your younger family members, including a card-making booth where kids can make their very own Mother’s Day cards. If you’re looking for a gift for Mom, you can check out the new Market Charm, sold by the Pike Place Market Foundation. Admission: Free. Times: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: Pike Place Market, 85 Pike Street, Seattle.
Cherry Blossom Festival—April 24-26—Seattle
For 39 years, Seattle has celebrated Japanese culture with the Cherry Blossom Festival. Originally created to highlight more than 1,000 cherry trees given to Seattle by Prime Minister Takeo Miki, the festival has become an annual event that showcases Seattle’s beautiful cherry blossom trees while also honoring the city’s rich culture. Times: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Location: Seattle Center, Armory Main Floor, Fisher Pavilion, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle.

 

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