Flower Power: Spring Break in Holland

What is the Keukenhof flower festival?

Known as the most beautiful flower festival in the world, the Keukenhof festival takes place every spring in Lisse in Southwest Holland and is one of the main attractions of the Netherlands. The surrounding area of Keukenhof is farmers’ fields which grow and export the world-famous tulips that we see at home.

An unbelievable 7 million different bulbs were planted in the autumn for the event which in 2019 will take place from March 21st until May 19th. Keukenhof is a dazzling spectacle of bright colours and welcomes in spring with a bang!

Every year there is a theme and the theme in 2019 is “flower power” with a 1970’s hippy vibe to mark the 70th anniversary of Keukenhof.

In 2018 Keukenhof welcomed 1.4 million visitors and expects similar numbers this year.

Why should you go?

When visiting the Netherlands, a visit to Keukenhof ticks a lot of boxes in one go! You can see tulips, windmills, clogs and Miffy all in the same place as well as enjoy some delicious “poffertjes” or mini pancakes. It is extremely easy to get to Keukenhof from both Amsterdam airport and nearby towns and allows you to experience the beautiful nature of Holland.

This is a brilliant day out for the whole family with lots to see both indoors and out. Even if you don’t consider yourself as a flower lover you won’t fail to be impressed by the amazing flower displays and be drawn in by the whole atmosphere.

The colourful tulip fields with their stripes and bands of colour are dazzling. It’s also a real treat for people flying over Holland at this time of year as they look down on the coloured patchwork of fields!

There is a special area for children with a petting zoo, play areas, a maze and even a treasure hunt. It is also an educational day out as children can learn all about the history of the tulips and the connection with the Netherlands. The restaurant has a children’s corner with puzzles and games to keep them entertained while you recharge your batteries.

Tickets cost €17 per adult, €8 for children aged 4-17 and free for 3 and under. It is best to buy them online to save time on the day.

Tips

• Get there early to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the morning sun for some beautiful photos.
   
• Take a boat trip through the tulip fields. A 45 minute boat trip will take you peacefully meandering through the stunning Dutch countryside.
   
• The best time to visit is usually mid-April which is when most of the flowers are in bloom. This is also when the flower parade takes place which is a must-see. A series of floats with impressive flower designs and sculptures travels 40km from Noordwijk to Haarlem and passes in front of the Keukenhof festival. In 2019 this will take place on 13th April. Note that roads will be closed on this day after mid-morning so get there early.
   
• Hire bikes to explore the surrounding area on a selection of easy to longer cycle routes.
   
• Look with your eyes and not your smart phone!

Where to Stay

When visiting with children why not stay in family friendly accommodation at one of the popular holiday parks in this area where the fun can continue after your day at Keukenhof. Duinrell or Koningshof are both within a 15 minute drive of Leiden train station where you can pick up one of the special bus services running to Keukenhof. Duinrell is a large holiday park in the village of Wassenaar with an impressive water park and theme park catering for all ages, as well as play areas, children’s activities and places to eat and drink. Koningshof is a smaller and typically Dutch park with covered pool, fantastic play area facilities and a cosy tavern restaurant.

Accommodation ranges from lodge tents and mobile homes to bungalows. You can self-cater or enjoy the local specialities in the on-park restaurants or in the local village.

Related posts:

Get Your Clogs On! There’s eggs-travagant Easter fun for everyone at Gulliver’s this spring The Perfect Family Holiday is Closer Than You Think Eggs-travagant Easter fun for everyone at Gulliver’s this spring! Top 5 Toddler Holidays to Holland