1. Tulip mania. Fun fact: Between 1634 and 1637, in the Netherlands, the enthusiasm for tulips — native to Eurasia and north Africa and introduced to western Europe in the 16th century — triggered a “tulip mania.” Tulip bulbs became so expensive that they were treated as a form of currency.

Today, enthusiasm for the flowers has triggered the Abbotsford Tulip Festival, which is the vision of tulip farmer Alexis Warmerdam. Going into its second year, the festival boasts more than 2.5 million of the flowers from over 40 varieties (currently, 75 wild species are accepted by botanists) over 10 acres. It’s estimated that more than 100,000 people came out to Abbotsford for the festival’s first year.

2. It’s outdoors. After one of the rainiest winters on record, who isn’t looking forward to getting some fresh air? However, organizers are encouraging visitors to check out abbotsfordtulipfestival.ca before making plans in case the festival is delayed for a week due to the cold weather.

3. Pick your own. Visitors can pick their own spring bouquets or purchase pre-picked tulips in an on-site flower shop.

4. Make an afternoon of it. In addition to the blazing glory of the tulips, the festival hosts a covered picnic area, food trucks and family-friendly games and activities.

5. Photo-friendly. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the sights and to take advantage of the many photo cut-out boards located throughout the grounds.

Source: Vancouver Sun