A Guide to the World's Most Interesting Flower Festivals

Flower festivals celebrate the beauty and diversity of blooms, often combining cultural traditions, artistic displays, and local festivities. Here are some of the most captivating flower festivals around the globe:

1. Keukenhof, Netherlands

When: March to May
Location: Lisse, Netherlands

One of the largest flower gardens in the world, Keukenhof is renowned for its stunning displays of tulips. Open for just eight weeks each spring, visitors can wander through 79 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens featuring over seven million bulbs. Special events and displays highlight various themes, drawing flower enthusiasts from around the globe.

2. Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan

When: Late March to Early April
Location: Various locations, including Tokyo and Kyoto

The Hanami tradition celebrates the transient beauty of cherry blossoms. During this period, parks across Japan fill with picnics, music, and activities, as people gather to enjoy the fleeting bloom of sakura trees. With numerous festivals taking place, such as the famous Ueno Park Festival in Tokyo, this celebration encapsulates both nature and culture.

3. Bloemencorso, Netherlands

When: April
Location: Zundert, Netherlands

This flower parade is a spectacular event featuring elaborately decorated floats made entirely of dahlias. Every year, local communities compete, showcasing their creativity and floral artistry. The parade of floats culminates in a vibrant display, attracting thousands of spectators who come to marvel at the floral masterpieces.

4. Festa della Fioritura, Italy

When: May
Location: Spello, Umbria

This festival is dedicated to the blossoming of various flowers, particularly in the charming town of Spello. The highlight is the Infiorata, where locals create intricate floral carpets along the streets using vibrant petals. The festival includes religious processions, music, and food, making it a multi-sensory celebration of spring.

5. Rose Festival, Oregon, USA

When: June
Location: Portland, Oregon

Held in Washington Park, the Portland Rose Festival features over 10,000 rose bushes. The event includes parades, a Queen Rose contest, and various garden-related activities. This festival not only showcases the beauty of roses but also emphasises community spirit and creativity.

6. Festival of Flowers, Colombia

When: August
Location: Medellín, Colombia

The Feria de las Flores is a vibrant festival that celebrates the culture and heritage of the Antioquia region. It features a stunning array of flower parades, flower exhibitions, and the famous ‘silleteros’ – locals who carry elaborate floral displays on their backs. This festival offers a unique glimpse into Colombian traditions while celebrating its rich floral diversity.

7. Dorset Flower Show, England

When: August
Location: Dorchester, Dorset

As one of the UK's largest flower shows, this event celebrates not only flowers but also gardening and sustainability. Exhibits include a wide range of plants, garden designs, and floral competitions. The festival focuses on educational outreach, encouraging sustainable gardening practices.

8. Jacaranda Festival, Australia

When: October
Location: Grafton, New South Wales

Celebrating the blooming of the Jacaranda tree, this festival features a parade, art exhibitions, and various community events. The vibrant purple blossoms create a stunning backdrop, making Grafton a picturesque destination during springtime.

9. La Fête de la Rose, France

When: May
Location: Grasse, France

This festival takes place in the heart of the French Riviera, renowned for its perfume industry. It celebrates the iconic Grasse rose with parades, flower picking, and artisan markets. Visitors can learn about the importance of roses in perfume production while enjoying the charm of this historical town.

10. Festival of Tulips, Canada

When: May
Location: Ottawa, Ontario

This annual festival celebrates the gift of tulips from the Netherlands to Canada following World War II. The festival features over a million blooming tulips across the city, along with special events, cultural performances, and food stalls highlighting the unique connection between the two nations.

These flower festivals not only provide a feast for the eyes but also enrich cultural experiences, making them a must-visit for flower lovers and travellers alike.