“Spring adds new life and new beauty to all that is.” — Jessica Harrelson
Every April, something magical happens just a short drive north of King and Snohomish County. The quiet farmlands of Skagit Valley explode into a vibrant sea of color, drawing visitors from across the region to witness one of the most breathtaking displays of blooming tulips anywhere in North America.
That’s the magic of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival—a self-guided floral adventure that takes over the valley for the entire month of April. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an annual regular, there’s always something new to see, snap, and savor.
🌼 What to Expect at the 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
- When: April 1–30, 2025
- Where: Mount Vernon, Washington
- What’s Happening:
- Tulip fields and world-class display gardens
- Family-friendly activities and entertainment
- Local art exhibits and craft markets
- Delicious regional food and treats
This is not your typical festival with a single gate or main event. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of experience where visitors drive or bike between flower farms, gardens, and small-town events all across the valley.
🌷 The Big Four Gardens to Explore
Each garden offers a unique spin on the tulip-viewing experience. Here are four of the top must-visits:
🌸 RoozenGaarde
With over 50 acres of tulips and daffodils, RoozenGaarde is the biggest and boldest garden in the festival. Expect rows upon rows of perfectly planted flowers, winding paths, and beautiful photo ops in every direction.
🌸 Tulip Town
This long-time favorite is great for families. There’s a trolley ride (weather permitting), a covered garden for rainy days, local art displays, and even a beer and wine garden for grown-ups who need a break from the camera-happy kids.
🌸 Tulip Valley Farms
For those looking for something hands-on, this spot offers a U-pick tulip experience, plus special “Night Bloom” events with music, lights, and food trucks. It’s got a rustic charm and is great for evening vibes.
🌸 Skagit Acres
One of the newest additions to the festival lineup, Skagit Acres blends boutique garden experiences with artisan shopping, scenic views of Mount Baker, and a calm, curated feel.
🎉 Events and Things to Do
The tulips are the headliners, but the festival offers plenty more:
🌷 Tulip Parade – Saturday, April 5, 2025
Head to downtown La Conner for the 38th Annual Tulip Parade starting at 2:00 PM. Enjoy a hometown celebration with colorful floats, community groups, marching bands, and even a Daffodil Pet Parade. Arrive early to grab a good spot—festivities begin around noon with the KidZone featuring games, face painting, and family fun near the marina.
🛍️ Tulip Festival Street Fair – April 18–20, 2025
Downtown Mount Vernon comes alive with a three-day street fair full of artisan crafts, food vendors, and live music.
- Friday & Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Don’t miss “Tulip Tunes” at the Riverwalk Plaza with performances running throughout the fair.
🎨 Tulip Festival Original Art Exhibit
Showcasing stunning tulip-themed artwork from local creators, the exhibit runs across two venues and dates:
- April 5–12 at The Local Shop in Sedro-Woolley, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- April 18–25 at Depot Art Center in Anacortes, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
A great way to take a piece of the festival home—without picking a single flower.
🐣 Easter Weekend at Tulip Town – April 19–20, 2025
Celebrate Easter weekend with tulip-filled fun:
Adult Egg Hunts at 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM (includes a drink ticket)
Plus, the Easter Bunny will be hopping around for photos and high-fives.
Kids’ Egg Hunts at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 12:00 PM (included with admission)
📸 Best Tips for Visiting
- Go Early: Weekday mornings offer smaller crowds and better light for photos.
- Dress for the Weather: This is Western Washington—layer up and bring boots.
- Buy Tickets Online: Each garden has its own admission, so plan your route and purchase tickets in advance.
- Check Bloom Status: Peak bloom can shift depending on weather. Follow the festival’s official updates to time your trip just right.
- Parking: It’s free at most gardens, but spots can fill quickly on sunny weekends.
🌄 A Favorite Spring Day Trip
For locals in King County and Snohomish County, the Tulip Festival is the perfect excuse for a spring day trip—or even a weekend getaway. Just an hour or so up the road, the drive alone is scenic, with charming small towns, country bakeries, and fresh roadside tulip stands lining the way.
While you’re planning your trip, consider pairing it with other Pacific Northwest adventures. We’ve highlighted a few regional favorites in our blog on Pacific Northwest places we go.
🗺️ Where to Stay
If you want to turn your tulip hunt into a weekend escape, book early. Nearby towns like La Conner and Mount Vernon offer cozy inns, riverside lodges, and family-friendly hotels. Many places fill up fast during festival weekends—especially around mid-April when the blooms are at their brightest.
🌟 Takeaways: Why the Tulip Festival Is Worth the Trip
- The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the largest and most beautiful flower festivals in the country.
- It’s a flexible, self-guided experience—perfect for couples, families, photographers, or anyone who loves spring color.
- Four standout gardens offer everything from trolley rides to U-pick tulips to evening light shows.
- The event brings together community, art, and agriculture in one unforgettable setting.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket?
Yes—each garden has its own admission fees. Some offer online discounts.
Is it pet-friendly?
Tulip Town and some other locations allow leashed pets, but check each garden’s policy.
When is the best time to go?
Mid-April is usually peak bloom. Go early in the day and on weekdays if you can.
How far is it from Snohomish County?
About 45–60 minutes depending on your starting point.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Many gardens have family zones, open space to run, and treats galore.
If you’re lucky enough to live nearby, don’t miss this annual celebration of spring in full bloom. Whether you’re going for the flowers, the food, or the photos, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is an experience you’ll want to return to year after year.
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