FAQ
When is Tulip Time?
Tulip Time in Pella is always the first Thursday, Friday & Saturday in May.
Did you know?
Tulip Time has 6 parades, 3 afternoon and 3 lighted evening parades. The best location for viewing parades and entertainment is the grandstands. Reserved afternoon seating is $5 for the program, street scrubbers, Dutch Dancers and parade. Prior to the evening parades, beginning at 7:00 we celebrate “Feesthouden”. Grandstand seating for evening program is $3.00.
What are the costs involved?
MANY OF THE EVENTS OF TULIP TIME ARE FREE!
There is lots of FREE seating curb side for the parades, just bring a blanket or lawn chair. The craft show charges no admission. The gardens are FREE for your enjoyment. Parking along the streets is FREE. Parking at Calvary Church on Elm St. on the north side of town is FREE, a shuttle will also be provided FREE to get you to the downtown area.
How are the Tulip Queen and Court chosen?
Any girl who is 17 years old and a senior in Pella School District is eligible to be nominated. The community begins in October nominating girls who are eligible. All girls nominated are then pictured in the Pella Town Crier. The community then votes on those girls and the top 12 girls are invited to participate in an afternoon and evening judging. The evening event is open to the community and called the Queen’s Announcement Party. During this event a panel of 40 judges chooses the Tulip Queen and her 4 attendants. This event occurs in early November.
Between November and March the girls are fitted in their costumes and prepare the program they present at functions throughout the state. Between March and Tulip Time the girls will make 44 appearances.
