March 29, 2024

Pella Tulip Time begins next week

Pella’s 78th Tulip Time Festival is set for May 2, 3 and 4 this year.

Many Dutch immigrants settled in central Iowa. And we all know the Dutch love their tulips. One of the bigger celebrations of this perennial, bulbous plant in the Tulipa genus, takes place in the central Iowa town of Pella, population 10,500.

Pella is a pretty place to visit all year long, but come the first week in May it explodes with colorful tulips — of which there are more than 100 species — parades, food and more. Many Pella residents and visitors wear traditional Dutch clothing, complete with wooden shoes, to celebrate their heritage. Three days each spring, Pella becomes Holland to Pella residents and visitors alike.

The Pella Historical Society sponsors the event annually to commemorate and celebrate the Dutch heritage of the community.

The festival features the Historical Village with flowers, crafters, food and music; the Scholte House which was the founder’s home with beautiful tulip gardens in its backyard; shows, street scrubbing, Dutch dancing, two parades daily, concerts, Dutch Craft Market, Dutch costumed citizens, a flower show, tours of the community and its gardens and Dutch pastries and meats.

New this year, Dutch Demos where attendees can enjoy sweet treats, dress like a Dutchman and tip toe through the tulips and traditional Dutch meals.

The evening Feesthouden show features nightly entertainment prior to the evening lighted parade. On Thursday, May 2, is the Gospel Showcase; Friday, May 3, is the country music performer, Jason Brown; and Saturday, May 4, is the band, FreeStyle.

The theme this year is “Enjoy Our Dutch Treasures.”

For more information, visit www.pellatuliptime.com.