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Tulips Galore
Every April, Skagit Valley blooms into a brilliant, 3D tulip quilt. The fields span more than
300 acres and are widely accepted to be one of the best tulip displays in the United States.
Tulips are typically segregated by color and
variety, which can make the fields look like
brightly colored patchwork quilts waving in
the breeze.
LOCATED JUST 90 MINUTES FROM
downtown Seattle, the vibrant valley’s
microclimate offers the ideal tulip grow-
ing conditions thanks to its temperate
weather, mild winters, and a plethora
of rain.
In celebration of the annual bloom,
the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival was
founded in 1984. It is held every year
from April 1 through April 30.
The fields are owned and operated
by individual farmers. Throughout the
winter, these hard-working individuals
cultivate the elaborate crops, while also
preparing for the thousands of visitors
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explore: NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air | Spring 2019
who come throughout the festival. In
addition to the wide variety of tulip
species on display, you’ll also find roses
and daffodils.
In order to preserve the flowers —
and ensure a good experience for every-
one — be sure to only park in designated
parking areas and stay on designated
walking paths. Crushed flowers not only
ruin the experience for other visitors,
they damage the livelihood of the
farmers.
One of the best ways to avoid the
crowds, and limit your potential im-
pact, is by riding a bike. You can bring
your own bike or you can rent one in
Mount Vernon, the local town. Mount
Vernon is also a cute place to stroll
through art galleries and grab a bite
to eat.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-Week
Where to Stroll: Roozengaarde’s 4-acre display
garden featuring more than 250,000 bulbs,
15867 Beaver Marsh Rd, Mt Vernon
Great Pints: Skagit River Brewery, 404 S 3rd St,
Mt Vernon
Delightful Brunch: Calico Cupboard, 121-B Free-
way Dr., Mt Vernon