windmill tour holland mi

Windmill Island Gardens

Top ways to experience Windmill Island Gardens and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Windmill Island Gardens - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.67 mi) Courtyard by Marriott Holland Downtown
• (0.85 mi) Teerman Lofts
• (0.80 mi) Haworth Hotel & Conference Center
• (0.72 mi) Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• (1.49 mi) Hampton Inn Holland
• (0.45 mi) Crazy Horse Steak House Saloon
• (0.74 mi) Hops at 84 East
• (0.90 mi) Windmill Restaurant Inc.
• (0.83 mi) Crane's In The City
• (0.74 mi) Curragh Irish Pub

Windmill Island Gardens 2024: Go Inside the Holland Windmill, Learn Dutch Culture, View Gorgeous Flowers and More

See the Holland Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens

Grab your wooden shoes and step back in time at Windmill Island Gardens, where you can view an authentic, historic Holland Windmill – and a ton of tulips!

Heading to Windmill Island Gardens is one of our favorite things to do in Holland, MI , especially during the Tulip Time tulip festival .

This destination features an authentic, 250-year-old working Dutch windmill (that you can climb inside) that is the centerpiece of the attraction’s 36 acres of gardens.

Windmill Island Gardens Special Events

Tulip Time is Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12, 2024. Over 150,000 tulips bloom at Windmill Island Gardens during this time. Thousands of people visit to see them bloom and the park can be crowded. Hours during the festival are extended.

Mid April – Early May 2024 Come see the amazing display of 5,000 annuals and 300 perennials throughout the grounds.

Magic at the Mill

Fridays and Saturdays December 6 – 21, 2024 Magic at the Mill is a tulip-themed holiday light show held at Windmill Island Gardens over several weekends leading up to Christmas.

11 Things to Do at Windmill Island Gardens in Holland

Windmill Island Gardens and attractions make this the perfect place to experience natural beauty and to learn more about the Dutch culture shared by many of the people in West Michigan.

Here’s a handy guide to help you explore Windmill Island Gardens.

1 – Start at the Post House

Stop by the Post House, an exact replica of a 14th-century Wayside Inn, to watch movie describing Windmill Island Gardens.

This is the perfect introduction to your fun-filled day at the Island and gives a great preview to your self-guided Holland Windmill tour. This is also where you’ll find the only restrooms at Windmill Island.

The movie repeats every 15 minutes, so if you can’t catch it when you arrive, you can swing through to watch it before you leave.

2 – Listen to the Amsterdam Street Organ

The antique Amsterdam Street Organ plays at quarter to and quarter past the hour.

Dance along to the lively songs that once entertained parade-goers in the Netherlands.

3 – Wander the Pathways

After you finish at the organ, wander through the gardens and over the draw bridge toward the Holland Windmill.

There are a multitude of great photo opportunities along this path. The drawbridge over the canal is a favorite.

4 – Tour the Authentic Holland Windmill

Learn a little history! Go on a self-guided tour of the inside of the De Zwaan Windmill.

You can go inside of the windmill, climb up the to different levels, and learn about the history of the mill.

Costumed staff may be on hand to demonstrate how it currently operates.

This is the last windmill to leave the Netherlands and the only working authentic Dutch windmill in the United States.

Touring the Holland windmill is an experience that you won’t get anywhere else in the U.S.

5 – Enjoy the Flower Gardens

Thousands of tulips bloom across the grounds in the spring, followed by a marvelous display of annuals and perennials in June, July, and August.

During Tulip Time, visitors flock to the fields of tulips next to the Holland windmill for photo ops.

6 – Walk through the Little Netherlands Display

Walk through a miniature display of a Dutch village where all of the pieces were hand-carved and hand-painted by early settlers.

The extensive exhibit is inside one of the Dutch Village buildings.

7 – Explore the Shops & Send Dutch Mail

As you’re making your way around the grounds, you’ll find replicas of historical buildings found in the Netherlands filled with costumed guides, making this another favorite stop for Tulip Time visitors.

You’ll also find Dutch-themed souvenirs and snacks in the Gift Shop – don’t miss the postcards!

Write a note and slip it into the authentic mailbox from the Netherlands. 

8 – Take a Spin on the Carousel

Did you know the carousel at Windmill Island Gardens is from the Netherlands? 

Kids can choose from over 30 hand-carved and painted wooden animals to ride on.

Parents can ride on the bench or watch and take photos from outside.

9- Visit the Play Area & Children’s Garden

The play area, located behind the carousel, is a fun respite for kids.

Enjoy the playground, mini-hedge maze, giant checkers, children’s garden and more.

(The Children’s Garden is the perfect place to end the day if you’re visiting with little ones. Filled with unique looking and different textured plants, kids love it!)

Bonus: Picnic tables make this a family-friendly stop.

10 – Watch the Dutch Dance and Style Show

Typically, in the summer, between 11 AM and 4 PM, there is a dutch dance on the hour next to the windmill.

Watch the dance and learn about the traditional Dutch costumes worn by the dancers.

11 – Buy Windmill Flour

The historic windmill ‘de zwaan’ is still operational. It turns and grinds grain into flour that you can purchase to take home for yourself or give as a gift.

The flour is ground from a soft white winter wheat grown by West Michigan farmers. 

During open hours, windmill-ground flour is typically available for sale in the Molenwinkel Shop in the windmill. It is a whole wheat or Graham flour and comes in 1-pound cloth bags at $5 each or 3-pound cloth bags at $8 each.

Windmill Island Location

Windmill Island Gardens – 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423

Windmill Island is just over a mile north of downtown Holland, MI. Access the gardens via a short drive. A bike path is also available.

Windmill Island Hours & Tickets

Windmill island gardens website 2024 windmill island open dates.

Opening Day: Saturday, April 13 2024 Closing Day: Sunday, October 6, 2024

2024 Windmill Island Hours

The park opens daily at 9:30 AM. The last admission for the day is at 5 PM. The park closes at 6 PM.  Tulip Time Hours (May 4-12, 2024): The park opens daily at 9 AM. The last admission for the day is at 6 PM. The park closes at 7 PM. 

2024 Windmill Island Ticket Rates

$12 for adults $6 for ages 3 to 15 2 and under are free * Windmill Island Gardens welcomes Meijer Gardens members (and other members of the American Horticultural Society)  for free as a part of the reciprocal membership program.  * Holland residents enjoy free admission with ID (but not during Tulip Time or special events)

Windmill Island Gardens FAQs

Is there a lot of walking at windmill island gardens.

Yes, there is a decent amount of walking at Windmill Island, so bring your stroller or wagon along for younger kids. Most of the grounds are wheelchair accessible.

How much does it cost to get into Windmill Island?

Adults – $12, Kids 3-15 – $6, ages 2 and under are free.

Is there food at Windmill Island Gardens?

During special events, a food truck may be on site. There is a picnic shelter in the park, so feel free to bring a lunch for your family (limited concessions also available in the gift shop).

Are dogs allowed at Windmill Island?

The park is dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed everywhere except inside of the Holland windmill and the Gift Shop.

Are there restrooms at Windmill Island?

The only restrooms on the Island are located in the Post House.

Will You Visit Windmill Island Gardens?

Windmill Island Gardens is a west Michigan Must-Do.

What’s your favorite part of the gardens?

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About The Author

GRKIDS Team

2 thoughts on “windmill island gardens 2024: go inside the holland windmill, learn dutch culture, view gorgeous flowers and more”.

Pingback: Windmill Island Gardens • Molly Shea's Hen House

That is one huge, fine-looking windmill. I’ve actually never seen one up close and personal. I’ve always been amazed by these windmills and how some of them are able to produce energy without the use of electricity. I will be searching for some sites that offer a windmill tour and tag my kids along for a day of fun and recreation. Thanks.

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Windmill Island Gardens

1 Lincoln Avenue Holland , MI 49423

When you visit Windmill Island Gardens, which is located right on the edge of Downtown Holland, you can view many unique items that are filled with Dutch History. Windmill Island Gardens takes pride in their 250-year-old working Dutch windmill, named “De Zwaan”. The windmill reaches 125 feet and towers over 36 acres of manicured gardens, canals and picnic areas.

You can view an exact replica of a 14th century wayside inn, while getting a presentation about Windmills, The Netherlands and Windmill Island’s De Zwaan. During the summer there is Dutch dancers dressed in folk costumes, and an antique Dutch carousel featuring hand-carved and painted wooden horses that the kids will enjoy. While at Windmill Island, visit the souvenir shop to try specialty Dutch treats including the stone ground flour from the windmill on site!

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4 Heartwarming Holiday Events in Downtown Holland

Magical storefront displays. Trees with twinkling lights. Christmas music spreading cheer up and down the street.

When you envision a classic holiday scene, you picture a place like  downtown Holland .

Fortunately, it’s that beautiful time of year once again. And you have lots of opportunities to celebrate the season in West Michigan’s most charming lakeshore community.

From special shopping days and Santa sightings to one-of-a-kind light shows, there are great reasons to visit Holland again and again over the next several weeks. Here’s a look at four upcoming events that will really get you into the holiday spirit:   

Holland’s Parade of Lights

Just a few days after Thanksgiving, bundle up and enjoy one of the most dazzling holiday activities by experiencing  Holland’s Parade of Lights . What sets this parade apart is that every entry is covered in lights. Even some of the people watching are all lit up!

The parade typically lasts about an hour with more than 70 entries including floats and marching bands. You can watch from either side of 8 th  Street between Columbia Avenue and the Holland Civic Center Place.  See when this year’s Holland Parade of Lights steps off .  

Magic at the Mill at Holland’s Windmill Island Gardens

Another unique light display this holiday season is  Holland’s Magic at the Mill . The spectacular walking tour through Windmill Island Gardens showcases the historic de Zwaan windmill all aglow and surrounded by more than 1,000 LED tulips – the iconic flower that has given Holland worldwide fame. 

As if the lights alone weren’t eye-catching enough, they’re synched to music in a breathtaking presentation.

You must  get tickets for Holland’s Magic at the Mill in advance , with time slots available on select dates. Each ticket gives you an hourlong window to stroll the gardens and admire the joyful light show. 

Before and after, you can explore the historic attractions at Windmill Island Gardens and browse the old-fashioned shops.

Holiday Open House and Other Shopping Events in Holland

Out of all the special shopping events this time of year in downtown Holland, the biggest is the  Holiday Open House  the weekend before Thanksgiving. That’s when all the independently owned shops in downtown Holland invite you in for the best deals of the season. 

Outside on downtown Holland’s sidewalk (which is always clear of slush and snow thanks to an underground heating system), there will be strolling carolers, chestnut roasting, a reindeer petting corral and appearances by Santa Claus. Inside, there will be store giveaways, holiday refreshments and free gift wrapping.

There also are a few other special shopping days this holiday season in Holland: 

• Holland’s Shop ‘Til You Drop , an evening in November when stores stay open late and offer savings of up to 30%
• Holland’s Small Business Saturday , when many shops feature discounts and in-store promotions the day after Black Friday
• Holland’s Shopping Jam , a Saturday morning in December when you can get a progressively larger discount the earlier you get to the store

For a different kind of holiday shopping experience, check out  Holland’s Kerstmarkt  on Fridays and Saturdays at the Eighth Street Marketplace on the corner of 8 th  and Pine Avenue. The authentic Dutch Christmas market has dozens of open-air, wooden booths with walls and a roof and filled with items made by local artisans. The market features lots of food and live entertainment, too. 

The Kerstmarkt typically runs on Fridays and Saturdays from the weekend before Thanksgiving until the weekend before Christmas.  Check out the schedule for this year’s Kerstmarkt in Holland .

LEARN MORE:   See all the holiday events this year in downtown Holland

Of course, every day this time of year is a special occasion in downtown Holland. With a  diverse collection of downtown Holland shops , you can find gifts for everyone on your list. And instead of settling for a food court,  Holland has lots of delicious restaurants  to choose from for every taste and budget. 

When you imagine the perfect holiday this year, imagine yourself in Holland. Then come experience it for real!

Matt Vande Bunte - MLive Content Marketing Storyteller

Mlive Content Marketing Storyteller 

Windmill Island Gardens

Top ways to experience Windmill Island Gardens and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Windmill Island Gardens - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• (1.08 km) Courtyard by Marriott Holland Downtown
• (1.35 km) Teerman Lofts
• (1.28 km) Haworth Hotel & Conference Center
• (1.15 km) Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• (2.38 km) Hampton Inn Holland
• (0.72 km) Crazy Horse Steak House Saloon
• (1.19 km) Hops at 84 East
• (1.44 km) Windmill Restaurant Inc.
• (1.32 km) Crane's In The City
• (1.18 km) Curragh Irish Pub

Holland’s “Dutch Experience”: an educational and entertaining experience for all ages          

Over 50 Dutch families purchased land between the Grand and Kalamazoo Rivers, and together, they founded present-day Holland, Michigan. Their steadfast and resourceful work ethic made this region, along the Black River where it flows into Macatawa Bay, the reflection of their culture.

Ripe with festivals and events celebrating Dutch heritage, Holland, Michigan is an unforgettable adventure any time of the year. A simple stroll downtown, along heated streets and cobblestone sidewalks, features over 100 specialty shops, breweries, and restaurants to entice you to shop and dine. These attractions in and around the Holland area stand in testimony of the Dutch culture.

Disclaimer :  Affiliate links are used which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I  only  recommend products I  use and love !

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Tulip Time Festival

The Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan, is a vibrant celebration of Dutch heritage and springtime beauty. Every year, millions of tulips bloom across the city, transforming the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors. Visitors from around the world gather to experience this picturesque event, immersing themselves in Dutch culture, cuisine, and traditions.

The festival features a wide array of activities for all ages, including parades adorned with elaborate floats and traditional Dutch dancers performing in wooden shoes. Visitors can explore the charming streets lined with historic windmills, quaint shops, and authentic Dutch architecture.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in delicious Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes while enjoying live music and entertainment. The festival also offers guided tours of tulip fields and gardens, providing a breathtaking backdrop for memorable photos.

Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or experiencing Tulip Time for the first time, this enchanting event promises an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, culture, and community spirit.

Holland Bowl Mill

120 James Street

One of the last of its kind in America, Holland Bowl Mill makes solid hardwood bowls and various wooden products of the highest quality. Each piece begins with beech, maple, cherry, walnut, or red oak logs harvested from sustainable forests throughout Michigan and the Midwest. Skilled artisans lovingly hand carve, sand, and finish the products.

The Holland Museum

31 W. 10 th Street

The Holland Museum tells the story of Holland, Michigan from its settlement by Dutch immigrants to today’s innovative, successful, and diverse community. Featuring thousands of fascinating historic objects, as well as artwork from the Netherlands from the 1600s through the 1900s, their permanent History and Dutch Galleries are not to be missed. The museum complex also houses the Cappon House Museum, the Settler’s House Museum, and the Holland Armory.

Cappon House Museum

228 W. 9 th Street

The historic Cappon House was the home of Holland’s first mayor and local tannery proprietor, Isaac Cappon. Built in 1874, it’s now partially restored to its appearance in 1900. Visitors to the Cappon House step back in time, immersing themselves in the stories of Isaac Cappon and his large family. Events like an old-fashioned ice cream social and a Victorian Christmas are just a few the site has to offer.

Settler’s House Museum

190 W. 9 th Street

The historic Settler’s House is a small family home that was lived in by a series of working-class families over the course of its long history. Built around 1867, the building survived the Great Holland Fire of 1871 and was continuously lived in until the 1990s. Today, the home has been restored to how it would have appeared in 1871.

Holland State Park

2215 Ottawa Beach Road

Holland State Park is one of Michigan’s most visited state parks. Once you take a look at the beautiful beach or take in a sunset over Lake Michigan, you’ll know why! The expansive beach is open to all who have purchased a day pass or a Recreation Passport. View the big red lighthouse directly across the channel to the south or take a stroll north along the beachfront. Holland State Park offers fishing, a boat launch, a concession stand with modern restrooms and changing area, a small playground, and camping.

Holland State Park is best known for sugar sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, and views of the iconic Big Red—their local lighthouse. The park is home to two large campgrounds, an accessible playground, opportunities for paddling and fishing, and connections to nonmotorized trails. The state park consists of separate Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan units on the northern side of the channel connecting Lake Macatawa with Lake Michigan. A boat launch with a fish cleaning station is located one mile east of the park.

The Knickerbocker Theatre

86 E. 8 th Street

The Knickerbocker offers a wide range of cultural offerings like lectures, art films, concerts, musicals, and other stage performances for the college body and Holland community alike. The theater is located at on Eighth St., in the heart of Holland’s downtown.

As a part of Calvin College, the theatre is one of the gems in the crown of the institution. The Knickerbocker Theatre — knickerbocker translates into ‘best of life’ — was acquired by Hope College in 1988. Built in 1911, the theater catered to a wide variety of shows, from vaudeville acts to rock concerts, for the Holland public.

The 536-seat theater switched ownership numerous times since its creation and is currently being used by the College as an added dimension to classes.

Nellis Dutch Village

12350 James Street

The present location of this Dutch village was purchased in 1952 and began as a retail outlet for bulbs and souvenirs. Now the village fills 10 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, canals, brick walkways, a theme park, petting zoo, and dining locations. A minimum of a three to four hour visit to see all the village attractions is recommended—with more time added if you’d like to eat and shop. All presentations, demonstrations, petting farm, and rides are included with your admission. Some extra activities may require a purchase, such as animal feed to feed the barn animals.

Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC)

4214 56th Street

The 100-acre parcel of land purchased by Wildlife Unlimited was an ideal site because of its diverse ecosystems. It’s been decades since it was farmed and one of the first projects the ODC undertook was to restore the land to its pre-settlement condition. Subsequent land acquisitions have added to the natural diversity including ponds, remnant dunes, wetlands, meadows, remnant prairie, and lowland hardwood forest. Visitors get to experience these unique surroundings while walking on three miles of trails—many that are ADA accessible—on the 160-acre site.

Veldheer Tulip Gardens

12755 Quincy Street

Holland’s only tulip farm is ablaze with acres of tulips from late April to mid-May. Veldheer farms began in 1950 when Vern Veldheer planted a couple hundred tulip bulbs as a hobby. Now, the farm plants around five million tulip bulbs each year! In addition to tulips, there are several other imported flowers and perennials for you to enjoy and even purchase for your own garden. Several varieties of lilies bloom throughout the spring and summer, and visitors can tour the beautiful perennial gardens through mid-October. This place is a must visit for garden and floral enthusiasts!

Windmill Island Gardens

1 Lincoln Avenue

Fortunately, a group of Holland officials were able to procure the last working windmill allowed to leave the Netherlands in 1964. The historic windmill known as, “de Zwaan,” is the highlight of the park and stands amongst 36 acres of exhibits, gardens, and natural areas. The mill still turns and grinds grain into flour and a tour up the windmill’s five floors is the highlight of any visit to the park.

Whether your interests lie in history, science, or the beauty of hundreds of acres of colorful tulips, Holland is a place where you can enjoy yourself for an afternoon or a weekend.

Make a weekend of it!

Carmelitta Tiffany

“Carmelitta Tiffany is a semi-retired journalist living a quiet life in rural West Michigan. She’s an avid gardener, voracious reader, and enjoys spending lots of time with her dog, MissDottie, and her grandson Henry. She serves those needing “wordy” advice through her business, West MI Editorial Services.

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Few spots left for Tulip Time tour hitting Holland highlights, Windmill Island and Big Red

H OLLAND, MI — Worried about getting the full Holland experience while in town for Tulip Time? The festival’s motorcoach tour makes sure you see all the highlights.

From the beginning the VIP tour goes fully immersive as its by a local guide dressed in a traditional Dutch costume.

The 7-hour motorcoach tour makes five stops throughout the city:

• Area Parks, Pillar Church, Hope College Tour
• Windmill Island Garden
• Bowerman’s Farms
• Holland State Park to see Big Red lighthouse
• Tulip Immersion Garden Private Tour with Dutch Artist Ibo Gulsen

The $150 tour ticket includes lunch at Bowerman’s Farms, tickets to Windmill Island Gardens and admission to the Tulip Immersion Garden a,nd free parking at the tour loading spot, Beechwood Church.

The tour is accessible for all ages. Each tour can accommodate assistive devices such as collapsible strollers, collapsible walkers, collapsible wheelchairs, and collapsible electric scooters.

The tour website notes that patrons are responsible for loading and unloading these assistive devices.

It’s required that patrons be able to navigate a set of stairs to get on and off of the charter bus between each stop.

Tours run throughout the festival, May 4-12. Early dates have already sold out but slots are still open for Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12.

Find tickets and more information at www.tuliptime.com/events/vip-tour

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit mlive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Kayaking Windmill Island

Holland, Michigan

Description

Added by John Clairmont

This short route weaves outdoor adventuring with the Dutch culture prominent in Holland, Michigan.

Windmill Island features an authentic and operational Dutch windmill called "De Zwaan" (The Swan) as well as gardens planted with over 100,000 tulips. The windmill was built in 1761 and moved to Holland in 1964. Notably, this windmill is not only the oldest authentic, working Dutch windmill in the United States, but it is also the last windmill to ever have left the Netherlands. 

Begin your trip at the parking lot just before Unity Bridge on the downtown Holland side. Here, you can unload your kayaks or canoes and carry them down the path to the water. This is an out and back trip, so you will return to the same parking lot. Follow the river east (away from the bridge) and towards the giant windmill. You can go around the island either way, but note the channel on the south side of the island is a canal with a sluice gate so there may be times when it is closed. There are also a few low foot bridges over the canal, so if the water level is high it may be difficult to float under them. The current is minimal on most of this route so you will be able to relax and take pictures along the way. The water may be cold, but if you come in early May you can also enjoy the famous Tulip Time hosted in Holland! 

Please note: From April to October you must pay ($10 for adults, $5 for kids 3-15) to get onto the island, so barring any emergencies please do not land/dock on the island as you circumnavigate it. 

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Kayaking Windmill Island Reviews

Amelia Walker

A New Way to see the Windmill!

Holland and it's Windmill are most visited during the Tulip Festival in May, but you can see the Windmill all year round, and by kayak is a new way to see it! Easy waters for the average kayaker and a cool view of Windmill Island!

Nancy Myers

Windmill Island is a unique destination suitable for first time kayakers

Our group of 7 traveled about 90 minutes from the Indiana/Michigan state line for this outing. We all enjoyed the destination. We roamed around in the marsh area where there seemed to be good wildlife viewing opportunities - herons, swans, ducks, beaver, and the occasional fish jumping out of the water. We did not find a way to the island through the marsh, so turned around and skirted the edge of the marsh to the island. Seeing the old windmill after reading of its history was impressive. Only 3 of our kayakers went under the first bridge as the water level was high. There was a barricade under the center part of the bridge that extended down to the water level, so those going under did so under the south side of the bridge. They were able to go around the island and meet back up with the group that turned around at the bridge. Several in our group were first time kayakers. It was a suitable trip for them with mild temperature and very little wind on the day we went.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Experience the Holland MI Tulip Festival

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Swim at Holland State Park

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‘We don’t want to sell just stems’: Holland moves 1,500 pots of tulips inside, slowing bloom

• Updated: Apr. 20, 2024, 8:06 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 19, 2024, 2:45 p.m.

The City of Holland Parks Department moved 1,500 pots of tulips into a cooler on Friday, April 19 to slow the bulb's bloom. The parks department has a selection of tulips that will be sold at the Tulip Time Festival's Artisan Market May 4-5. (Photo Courtesy of Jamie Scott, City of Holland Parks Department) Photo Courtesy of Jamie Scott, City of Holland Parks Department

• Lindsay Moore | [email protected]

HOLLAND, MI -- Sunny days and cool nights have tulip bulbs opening up in full color this week, but Holland’s parks department wants to slow that bloom for some of their flowers.

The city of Holland parks department is responsible for 565,000 bulbs planted through the main corridors and throughout city parks. That also includes hundreds of pots that are featured on street corners, parade floats and at the artisan markets during the Tulip Time Festival.

The parks department keeps a close eye on all of the “mircoclimates” throughout the city, including their own greenhouse.

The cool spring days have kept the tulips right on schedule, but pots lined up along the greenhouse have been getting an intensely sunny reflection off the glass, said Jamie Scott, parks and cemetery deputy director.

To avoid the bulbs opening too soon, the entire parks department worked together to move 1,500 pots. Half the pots moved inside to a cooler kept at 55-degrees and the other half remained outside but away from the reflective rays.

It’s this attention to detail that ensures downtown will have tulips for the festival, starting the first week of May.

“We don’t want to sell just stems,” Scott said. “We want to make sure the flowers are nice and tight and not opened up too much.”

Tulip Time, running May 4-12, draws in millions of visitors for the parades, dancing, food and six million picturesque tulips. The festival’s artisan market runs May 4-5 and parades are May 9 and 11.

Cooler nights ahead will keep the flowers planted in city parks on schedule to hold their color until the festival, Scott said.

More Tulip Time News:

Holland sweeps out winter, invites in springtime guests during Tulip Time parades

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Principal, aquatic executive director named Grand Marshals of Holland's Tulip Time parade

by Katie Sergent | News Channel 3

HOLLAND, Mich. — Grand Marshals for Holland's 95th annual Tulip Time parade have been chosen.

Wednesday, Tulip Time Festival Inc. announced Waukazoo Elementary Principal Audra Bolhuis and retiring Holland Aquatic Center Executive Director Jack Huisingh will lead the Gentex Kinderparade and the Quality Car Wash Volksparade in mid-May.

Bolhuis was chosen to serve as the Grand Marshal for the Gentex Kinderparade to help celebrate the school's 150th anniversary, according to organizers.

The school originally served as a one-room schoolhouse in Park Township, and has seen changes over the last 150 years as it continues to serve the community, organizers said.

• More: Maritime Museum's flagship "Friends Good Will" to give tours at Tulip Time Festival

“The honor that our school has to serve as the grand marshal this year is a tribute to the generations of families that have made Waukazoo Elementary their home,” Bolhuis said of the appointment. “To have our school included in the annual parade this year makes my role as principal even more special. This will certainly be a memory that will last a lifetime for our families and for me.”

Waukazoo is slated to host an open house on May 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. showcasing student projects that highlight the history of the school.

Bolhuis is set to lead the Gentex Kinderparade on Thursday, May 9 at 2 p.m.

In celebration of his more than 10 years of service to the Holland community, Huisingh will lead the Quality Car Wash Volksparade on May 11.

A Holland native, Huisingh has traveled the world, but his travels showed "how special the Holland community is with its' legacy of Tulip Time and the beautiful amenities like the one he serves in, the Holland Aquatic Center," according to officials.

The retiring executive director told organizers he remembers growing up watching the Holland Public Schools bands and later joined them.

He now serves as a spectator and enjoys watching the joy that the festival brings to his grandchildren and visitors, officials said.

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“I was genuinely surprised when Gwen (Executive Director of Tulip Time), asked me to be the grand marshal of this year’s parade," Huisingh said. "I do consider it a genuine honor to represent the city I love, and grew up in and work in today. I have been truly blessed to be allowed to serve at our Holland Aquatic Center and to help create something for our next generation.”

Huisingh is set to lead the Quality Car Wash Volksparade at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 11.

More information about the upcoming Tulip Time festival, including tickets, can be found online.

Tulip Time 2024: Your ultimate guide to festival events, activities

HOLLAND, Mich. — It’s time for Tulip Time 2024 — the longest-running tulip festival in the United States — when thousands of people will travel from all over the world to experience and celebrate tulips, Dutch heritage and the city of Holland.

Tulip Time runs Saturday, May 4- Sunday, May 12, with some events starting Thursday, May 2 and Friday, May 3.

As a reminder, the Michigan Department of Transportation has its I-196 Business Loop Rebuilding project in the works, so eastbound lanes will be closed and detoured during the festival.

READ MORE: How to navigate I-196 construction during Tulip Time

Full daily schedule:

Tulip Time events and activities take place in many different locations, most of which are in a four-mile radius of downtown Holland.

The Tulip Time Festival provides attendees with dozens of ways to stay entertained, including unique attractions and points of interest, Dutch performance and parades.

See event descriptions below.

• American Legion Band Concert: This performance includes pillars from the concert band literature, including the music of Percy Grainger, Gustav Holst, a patriotic salute to our armed forces and music that shows off the virtuosity of these talented musicians.
• Art in Bloem Fine Art Exhibit: Experience the top 20 finalists in our 2024 First Bloem artwork competition.
• Artisan Market: You'll be sure to find something unique and handcrafted here from at least one of the 300 vendors juried and hand-selected for their uniqueness, variety, hand-craftmanship and originality.
• Carnival: Fun, joy and thrills for the whole family with carnival rides and games offering an excellent source of entertainment for both kids and adults.
• Dutch Dogs on Parade: As part of the Kinderparade, all hometown dogs are invited to dress in their Dutch costumes and strut their stuff!
• Dutch Lunch and Dance Performance: Enjoy a traditional Dutch meal and show.
• Dutch Organ Concert: Rhonda Sider Edgington, a traveling musician and Organist and Music Director at Hope Church, takes audiences through six centuries of Dutch organ music.
• FiddleFire: Built from members and friends of the musical Planning Family, this group returns to share their exceptional talent, humor and charm.
• Historic Walking Tours: Learn about the city of Holland's unique and interesting history from a fully costumed guide.
• Kinderparade: This Gentex children's parade is a time-honored favorite when elementary school kids line up with their teachers and school administrators in full costume and smiling faces to march together through downtown Holland.
• On Golden Pond: The Holland Community Theatre presents this beloved story of aging, family and forgiveness.
• Pedals in the Park: An event for kids ages two-to-14-years-old grown from a partnership between Tulip Time and Velo Kids. Bring your bikes and helmets to decorate!
• Scotty McCreery: Close your eyes and get lost in Scotty McCreery's soulful voice as he blends contemporary and traditional country in this unforgettable live experience.
• Tall Ship Dockside Tours: Welcome aboard the tall ship Friends Good Will, a replica Great Lakes sloop from 1810 owned and operated by the Michigan Maritime Museum.
• The Texas Tenors: Join this group as they celebrate 15 years together.
• Tulip City Open — Pickleball Tournament: A collaboration between Gateway Mission and Tulip Time to offer a dynamic Pickleball tournament that not only promises intense competition, but also champions a noteworthy cause.
• Tulip Immersion Garden: World-renowned Dutch horticulturist Ibo Gülsen created this week-long immersion experience that takes travelers through the history of the tulip by incorporating 65,000 tulips of all varieties and colors.

• Tulip Time Photo Walk: Calling all photography enthusiasts! This is a unique opportunity to see one of Holland's top tourist attractions through the eyes of professional photographers during hours with limited crowds.
• Tulip Time Quilt Show: Enjoy a unique display of more than 100 exquisite quilts, wall hangings and art quilts.
• Tulip Time Run: Experience the beauty of Holland as you run through the tulip-lined streets during a 5K, 10K or Kids' Fun Run.
• VIP Tour: Celebrate Tulip Time's 95th festival on this seven-hour tour curated by Tulip Time and guided by a local Hollander dressed in Dutch Costume.
• Volksparade: Dozens of bands from West Michigan middle and high schools showcase their talents amid the community floats through downtown Holland.

Click here for more information about Tulip Time.

If you're interested in getting involved with Tulip Time, there are plenty of ways to do so! You can donate , volunteer or "join the dance" in other ways, like becoming a sponsor .

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• 7 Best Small Towns to Retire in Michigan in 2024

Many seniors imagine spending their golden years sipping cocktails while enjoying waterfront views, surrounded by forests and charming little downtowns with boutique shops, fine dining, and a vibrant community. Popular towns offering those features in California , Oregon , Washington , and Florida are quickly pricing out many new retirees. Unless one was born in the Midwest , they might not consider it an ideal retirement location, however many American retirees are rethinking their view of “Middle America” and discovering the exceptional beauty of states like Michigan with its majestic lakes, islands, forests, and lush rolling hills.

There are an abundance of small towns throughout the state that are perfect for seniors, like Petoskey with its Victorian-style cottages, Frankenmuth known for its Bavarian architecture, Holland with its famous Tulip Time Festival, Traverse City enveloped by cherry orchards and vineyards, Charlevoix nestled between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix , Marquette along the shores of Lake Superior and St. Joseph with its stunning beaches.

The town of Petoskey lies along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay and offers views of gentle hills, forests, and stunning waterfront. The small town was founded in the late 1800s and is known for its lovely Victorian-style cottages, brick-paved sidewalks, and gas lamps. The population of the town is 5,865 and nearly 20% are over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $256,400, making it comfortably affordable for retirees (Census.gov). According to US News Health, McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital is high performing. The downtown has a dense suburban feel, and most residents are homeowners. Local landmarks and attractions include the Petoskey State Park with its views of Little Traverse Bay and its outdoor activities of hiking, picnicking, and swimming. Gaslight Shopping District boasts quaint boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, such as Joie de Vie Antiques and Palette Bistro. The Bay View Association is not to be missed for the walking tours of the beautiful historic homes.

Frankenmuth

Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth has become a popular destination for retirees in the Midwest. Located on the Cass River , the town of Frankenmuth is enveloped by verdant farmlands and is known for its European -themed architecture. The downtown is marked by its Bavarian-style homes and half-timbered buildings, flower window boxes and cobblestone streets. Settled in the mid-1800s by Germans, the town has kept that European heritage alive. The population is roughly 5,153 with 29% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $244,300, making it an affordable option for those on a fixed income (Census.gov). Covenant HealthCare Cooper Hospital is nearby and well regarded according to US News Health. Popular landmarks are the Bavarian Inn, a restaurant with authentic German cuisine and atmosphere. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is the world’s largest Christmas store and a tourist attraction. In April there’s the annual Zehnder’s Ragtime Festival that draws visitors from all over the US and Canada to hear Ragtime music performed. The Bavarian Blacksmith Experience allows visitors to forge their own dagger, knife, wand, rune pendant or season piece, under the watchful supervision of experienced blacksmiths. A great activity for the grandkids!

Nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Holland is known for its beaches, sand dunes and tulip fields. The downtown with its gabled roofs and colorful facades is shaped by its Dutch architecture, shops, and cafes. Examples include Apothecary Gift Shop and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant. Known for its Tulip Time Festival, the town has a population of 34,006 and boasts a healthy senior population with nearly 17% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $212,900, making it exceptionally affordable for our silver-haired friends (Census.gov). US News Health gives high marks to Holland Hospital. Must-see landmarks include Windmill Island Gardens, with their 251-year-old working Dutch windmill. Holland State Park with its views of Lake Michigan, Big Red Lighthouse, and its sandy beaches and picnic areas.

Traverse City

Set along the southern end of the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is characterized by its cherry orchards, rolling hills and vineyards. The downtown features a mix of neoclassical, modern and Victorian architecture. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons was once a historic asylum and is now the vibrant hub of shops, cafes and walking trails. Clinch Park is another landmark worth exploring with its beach, marina and walking trails. The population of 15,702 has those over 65 making up roughly 23%. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is reasonable for retirees at $336,900 (Census.gov). US News Health gives a tip of the hat to Munson Medical Center. The town is friendly, lively, and perfect for spending one’s golden years.

The town of Charlevoix is located between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan and features rolling hills, sandy beaches, and striking sunsets. The downtown is admired for its “Charlevoix stone” buildings, stylish architecture, and waterfront views. Notable landmarks include Charlevoix South Pier Light Statins, Mushroom Houses, which were designed by Earl Young and are fairytale-like and Beaver Island, the largest island in Lake Michigan. The population of the town is 26,159 with nearly 28% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $220,000, offering exceptional affordability for those planning to retire (Census.gov). US News Health gives Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital top marks.

Gracing the banks of Lake Superior, Marquette is noted for its rugged shoreline, dense forests, and rocky cliffs. The downtown offers gorgeous lake views, which serves as the backdrop for the town’s mixed historic, modern architecture, brick buildings and colorful storefronts. Presque Isle Park is a landmark that provides views of Lake Superior, walking trails and picnic areas. Then there is Marquette Harbor Light, a historic lighthouse. The population of Marquette is 20,786 with those over 65 making up nearly 16%. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $231,500, which is affordable for those looking to retire. According to CNN Money and US News Health Marquette General Health System is among the nation’s top cardiovascular hospitals, which is important for the aged.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph is blessed by its sandy beaches, rolling dunes and scenic lake views. The downtown is marked by its Victorian-style and neoclassical buildings and admired for its tree-lined streets and waterfront dining and shopping. Landmarks to see are Silver Beach County Park, with its historic carousel, picnic areas and views of the lake. St. Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lights feature historic lighthouses at the entrance to the St. Joseph River . The Krasl Art Center is known for its contemporary art exhibits, outdoor sculptures and is considered the heart of the town. The population of St. Joseph is 7,768 with nearly 23% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $250,900, which is a steal, given the beauty and waterfront living that this small town has to offer those in their sunset years (Census.gov). Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital near St. Joseph is well ranked according to US News Health.

Consider Retiring to Michigan

It is time for seniors to rethink their retirement options and consider the Midwest and states like Michigan with its stunning natural beauties, charming, lively, but safe towns and the easy access to world-class healthcare. Come discover all Michigan has to offer retirees!

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