A Dutch Treat: Top 5 Floral Events in Holland

Tulips are synonymous with Holland. The brightly colored bulbs bloom in all their glory

throughout the spring. But visitors who find themselves here during other seasons have

discovered that this horticultural haven is a perennial garden. Crocuses, daffodils, yellow

narcissi, hyacinths and - my personal favorites - gladioli, grace these floral fields of dreams

throughout the entire year. No matter where your hotel; you'll be treated to visual extravaganza at nearly every turn.

Holland.com, the official site of Holland, provides the following list of area flower events

enjoyed by tourists and locals alike:

1. Keukenhof

April – May: 7 million flower bulbs are planted in the park Keukenhof. Gardens and four

pavilions show a fantastic collection of: tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, orchids, roses,

carnations, irises, lilies and many other flowers. Keukenhof is by far the most impressive

international flower exhibition you’ll ever see.

2. Floriade

April – early October: A world horticultural expo held in a different town every ten

years. Enjoy the most exquisite and exceptional flowers, plants, trees and fruit and

vegetables.

3. Flower Parade

April: The most amazing flower parade in the world. 50 enormous floats and cars richly

decorated with flowers form a flower parade that drives along a 40 kilometer route. This

visual feast is visited by hundreds of thousands of people.

4. Floating Flower Market

Year-round: Holland’s best known flower market is located in Amsterdam. Merchandise

is displayed on floating barges along the Singel canal. The great variety of flowers make

it one of the most colorful places of Amsterdam.

5. FloraHolland

Year-round: The flower auction in Naaldwijk is the largest cut flower and plant auction

house in the world and is responsible for over 90% of Dutch trade in those products. The

second largest auction house is VBA Aalsmeer. You will have to get up early but then you'll be able to experience the excitement of the flower auction from a vantage point and with English commentary.