There are plenty of fun-filled festivals around the world but for travelers who enjoy flowerstalking, Tesselaar Tulip Festival in Australia is a bucket-list-worthy event.
Every year in September and October, more than a million flowering buds including nearly a million tulips create a stunning rainbow landscape in the sprawling Tesselaar Flower Farm in the suburbs of Silvan. The award-winning festival is spectacular fun—and not just for the flowers! Beyond the blooms, there are bustling market stalls, tasty treats, live entertainment, and unique attractions such as Australia’s largest clog on display.
The 2021 Tesselaar Tulip Festival has been cancelled, but there’s plenty of time to plan a trip next year! Here are some of the things to know and expect for the 2022 Tesselaar Tulip Festival.
When And Where
Tesselaar Flower Farm is found in the scenic Dandenong Ranges, roughly an hour-long drive from Melbourne. While the easiest way to the farm is by car, it is also accessible via public transport.
The festival takes place every autumn, often from mid-September to mid-October.
Fun Daily Events
The breathtaking flower field in full bloom is reason enough to check out Tesselaar Tulip Festival, but tourists will also enjoy exploring the various attractions set up around the farm. Market stalls sell local knick-knacks and souvenirs from Holland, while a delicious selection of food is perfect for a sunny picnic. Historic garden displays, awe-inspiring works by renowned sculptors, and replica Dutch windmills offer plenty of photo opportunities. Tourists can also hop on a Tulip Tractor Ride or participate in Dutch-themed activities like the Clog Dancing Workshop.
Turkish Weekend
Tesselaar Tulip Festival pays tribute to the origins of the tulip flower and the world’s first Tulip Festival in Turkey. The Turkish Weekend celebrates all things Turkish, from food and exotic souvenir items to music, dance, and art.
Dutch Weekend
Founders Cees and Johanna Tesselaar were originally from Holland, and every year the Tesselaar Flower Farm transforms into a mini-Holland to celebrate their roots. Live Dutch music and traditional games will make tourists feel like they’ve discovered a slice of Dutch in the heart of Australia.
Irish Weekend
Marvel at the charm of the Irish for a weekend. There won’t be leprechauns, but there will be Guinness, rocking musical performances, Irish dancing performances, and Irish pipers roaming the flower fields.
Rock The Fields
Travelers visiting during the Rock The Fields weekend will enjoy a blast to the past as talented musicians regale the sprawling farm with bop-worthy 50s and 60s tunes. Turn back time at the fun dance demonstrations and vintage fashion at Tesselaar Tulip Festival.
Food, Wine, And Jazz Weekend
Indulge in some of life’s greatest pleasures: decadent food, fine wine, and mesmerizing jazz performances. Perks of visiting for this weekend include complimentary wine, cider, and beer tastings, as well as live jazz performances for entertainment.
Children’s Weeks
For families with youngsters making the trip to Silvan, there’s no better time to visit than the Children’s Weeks. Popular cartoon mascots like Sesame Street characters and Peppa Pig typically make an appearance to delight the kids, while live shows and workshops keep them occupied on the farm.
Nearby Attractions
Planning to do some sightseeing around the farm? The Dandenong Range and Yarra Valley are home to an array of historic, cultural, and natural attractions. Delight in a unique train journey at Puffing Billy, famous for being Australia’s oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railway. If you haven’t had your fill of flowers, wander through the lush grounds of gardens and fields in the Dandenong, including Alfred Nicholas, Ferny Creek Horticultural Society, and Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.
Good To Know
Limited tickets are sold at the gate of the farm, so buying tickets prior to visiting is recommended. Children ages 3 to 16 are free of charge but tickets are required for entry, while children under 3 years of age do not require a ticket. Dogs are allowed on the premises, but they must be on a leash.
When you’re mapping out your travel checklist for 2022, Tesselaar Tulip Festival is a wonderful destination to consider. Whether you’re on a solo journey, romantic getaway, or a trip with a bigger group, there’s plenty to see, do, and eat at this blooming event.
Visit KKday for more travel ideas in the Dandenong Ranges and the rest of Australia.
*Featured photo via Tesselaar Tulip Festival
