Flora and Fauna Festivals

The springtime brings warmer weather, beautiful blooms and a great excuse to get outside. Take a family trip this spring or summer in a destination showcasing the best of the floral season.

Philadelphia Flower Show

Dip your toe into spring with an early preview during the Philadelphia Flower Show. Hosted at the Philadelphia Convention Center March 3–11, the annual event welcomes all ages and boasts a variety of attractions for little ones, kids, adults and everyone in between.

Enjoy this year’s theme, Wonders of Water, with the family, perusing impressive designs from florists, artists and designers. Bring the kids and kick off spring with tea and a tour or stay late for the Flowers After Party. Purchase tickets here and read more about the show, news and events.

Tulip Time

The Tulip Time Festival brings Dutch culture to Holland, Mich., May 5–13. Millions of tulips line the city streets and fill Holland’s parks during this adored springtime event. Guests enjoy authentic Dutch cuisine, traditional dancing and other seasonal events.

Tulip Time Dutch Dance program. Photo: Ganeshkumar Durai | Dreamstime.com

The event kicks off with the Tulip Time 5K run, followed by a citywide parade showcasing Dutch pride. Visitors enjoy the midway carnival, providing rides, games and shows for all ages.

Bring the kids and join in the family fun, ringing in the spring with local attractions including open-air markets selling homemade goods, arts and crafts fairs and various pop-up stalls. Check out live shows and a performance by the Beach Boys, May 11.

Italian Lavender Field Season

Looking for ideas for that big family trip this summer? Explore the rolling lavender fields in Umbria, Italy, during Lavandeto di Assisi’s seasonal celebration, June 23–July 8. During the three-week event in Castelnuovo di Assisi, guests enjoy views of the estate’s blossoming lavender fields and gardens during the region’s peak floral summer months.

Lavender field in Assisi. Photo: Elisa Bistocchi | Dreamstime.com

Visitors learn about lavender farming and how it is spun into cloth, diffused into essential oils for aromatherapy and used in the kitchen. Visitors can also take a basket-making course and painting class, compete in a flower arrangement contest, ride horses and explore the outdoor market. Entrance is free so take advantage and bring the family.

The annual summer celebration draws visitors from around the world to explore the expansive lavender fields and lush gardens. Take in the seemingly endless view of cascading hues and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities.