If you need a spring tradition your whole family will love, Tulip Time in Pella should be on your list. Every May, this charming Iowa town transforms into a vibrant celebration of Dutch heritage. It’s every bit as beautiful as it sounds. As a Pella family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how this festival brings families together. Complete with kids twirling in traditional outfits, parents soaking in the history, and tulips blooming as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, these events offer something worth building a family tradition around.
About Tulip Time Pella
507 Franklin St., Pella, IA 50219
Tulip Time has been a cherished part of Pella’s identity since 1935. It has since grown into a three-day festival that celebrates the town’s Dutch roots in the most joyful and colorful way. Hosted by the Pella Historical Museums, the event is a true labor of love fueled by generations of volunteers and local families who keep these traditions alive. From the iconic windmill to the historic costumes and canal, it’s like stepping into a European village without leaving Iowa.
The Tulip Time Pella Exprience
What makes Tulip Time so unique isn’t just the fields of tulips in Pella (though those are definitely a showstopper). It’s the way the whole town comes together. Expect parades filled with Dutch dancers and floats, artisan markets, Dutch foods, and even wooden shoe carving demonstrations. For kids, it’s a chance to see history come alive in the most interactive and delightful ways. As a family photographer, I have to say that this event was packed with picture-perfect moments.
Specialty
Beyond the parades and flowers, Tulip Time Pella hosts special performances, historical tours, and hands-on experiences for all ages. One of the most beloved traditions is the daily “scrubbing of the streets,” a reenactment of a Dutch cleaning ritual that gets everyone involved. The Scholte House Museum and the Vermeer Windmill are open for tours, and families can also explore a replica Dutch village. There are also designated areas with kid-friendly crafts, games, and educational activities, making it easy for little ones to stay engaged.
Make Tulip Time Pella A Part of Your Yearly Traditions
Tulip Time Pella is one of those events that feels like a celebration and a homecoming all at once. Whether you’re dressing up in costume, snapping photos under the blossoms, or watching your child take in the parade with wide-eyed wonder, there’s something incredibly special about sharing this weekend together. It’s a chance to slow down, connect, and celebrate tradition in a way that’s both meaningful and fun.
I’d love to help you capture the memories. As a Pella family photographer, I know just how fleeting these sweet stages of life can be, and I’d be honored to preserve them for you in a way that feels timeless and joyful. Let’s turn those love-filled moments into keepsakes you’ll treasure for years. Whether it’s your little one’s scrunched-nose smile, a quiet snuggle between siblings, or the playful chaos that makes your family uniquely yours, I’m here for all of it. These days may feel ordinary now, but they’ll mean everything later. Let’s create something beautiful together, something that reflects the love and laughter you live every single day.
