An Insider’s Scoop on the 2024 Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa (Best Spots to Visit and More)
The Canadian Tulip Festival, an annual event since 1953, is gearing up for its return to Ottawa this 2024 from May 10 to 20. This year’s festival holds special significance as it honors the centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
It’s organized by the Canadian Tulip Legacy, a non-profit dedicated to commemorating the gift of tulips from the Dutch to Canadians after World War II. The festival is renowned worldwide for its vibrant tulips, which is why it’s a must-see event for all!
Visitors to Ottawa during the festival will have tons of opportunities to immerse themselves in the beauty of tulips. Commissioners Park boasts over 100 varieties of bulbs, including those from the Queen Juliana Gift Bed donated by the Netherlands.
Major’s Hill Park and the Downtown Gatineau and Rideau Canal corridor also have their own tulip displays going on! You’ll find no shortage of stunning floral displays throughout the city.
The Canadian Tulip Festival kicks off with an opening ceremony on May 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM on the Queen Elizabeth Driveway.
Attendees will be treated to a parade by the Canadian Armed Forces Central Band, remarks from dignitaries, and a flypast by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The flypast will feature WWII veteran Ronald “Shorty” Moyes.
Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy the charm of outdoor cinema with daily screenings at Commissioners Park during Movies in the Park. From family classics to captivating concert movies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy under the stars.
From May 10 to May 20, the Tulip Market at Commissioner’s Park invites guests to see unique tulip-themed merchandise crafted by regional artisans.
Tulip Town offers an array of family-friendly activities, including a Tulip Chalk Wall and oversized board games, promising fun for all ages.
On May 12, participants can join the Flower Fun Run along Queen Elizabeth Drive, celebrating the RCAF Centennial with various run and walk options.
As evening falls, the Blacklight Boardwalk and Operation Manna Sound & Light Story at Dow’s Lake come alive with mesmerizing displays showcasing tulips under blacklight. There will also be live-action depictions of the RCAF’s heroic tales during WWII.
You can also experience the urban beauty of the Byward Market Blooms, featuring immersive displays and captivating UV spectrums after dark.
If you’re a fan of walking tours, join the Tulip Legacy Walking Tour, a self-guided exploration through Commissioners Park. This walk highlights the festival’s rich horticultural and historical significance.
The festival will end on May 19 with a drone show over Dow’s Lake and a closing ceremony. Don’t miss out on this celebration of spring and we hope to see you frolicking in the tulips with us soon!