Tulip Time in Oregon, a Brief and Dazzling Season
 |
40 acres of tulips invite visitors to walk and explore |
|---|
Around the U.S., there are a handful of areas where tulips dazzle the eye for acres upon acres. One of these is the Willamette Valley of Oregon, where blossoming tulips don’t whisper that spring is coming. They shout it in vibrating colors.
 |
| The rows of tulips offer endless variety |
|---|
The Woodburn, Oregon Tulip Fest has been celebrated each spring since 1986. There are of course other spring flowers on display over 40-some acres, but the color riot is all about tulips. It is a spring event not to be missed, not only for the eye-pleasing floral display, but for the array of people who appreciate it.
During our visit, children decked out in rainwear walked alongside women in saris of emerald green, deep maroon and bright orange. A young couple in jeans explored the fields next to a family dressed in gold-laden silks from Cambodia. The entire cultural melting pot that is Portland, Oregon was reflected in the community of tulip lovers.
While many people associate the origin of tulips with Holland, they are actually native to Asia. In Holland during the 1600s, tulips were a prized commodity, a status symbol and a source of financial speculation. Fortunately, contemporary visitors to Oregon’s Willamette Valley don’t have to panic over the rise and fall of the price of tulips. They can simply enjoy the huge variety of colors, sizes and shapes.
Tulips can be cultivated to display their colors over a period of about 4 to 6 weeks. Some bloom early, others later. Different varieties have different times for flowering to make the show last.
 |
Each flower is a work of art |
|---|
The early season, from late March into early April, is noted for several varieties. Tall pointed petals are characteristic of water lily tulips. These are usually from 4 inches to 12 inches tall. Taller tulips from 12 to 15 inches, such as the flame-like Red Emperor, a striking when they cover a field. Another most popular tulip is the Tulipa greigii. If the name sounds a bit scientific, think of a tulip anywhere from 6 inches to 20 inches in height with very green leaves and a true red flower, a tulip named 'Red Riding Hood.'
The Tulip Fest takes place at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm outside of Woodburn, Oregon, about 45 minutes from downtown Portland and 30 minutes north of Salem.
Weather is something to consider when a visit is planned. At an outdoor festival in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, rain and mud can happen anytime. It is wise to dress for being on a working farm and to wear shoes or boots that can withstand mud.
And, as many as 20,000 to 30,000 people come to the tulip festival. Weekends can be especially busy.
We were certainly glad we had our camera, complete with charged batteries and a memory card. We also noticed what a great family opportunity the event can be. Children were captivated by a demonstration of wooden shoes being carved. There were also antique steam tractors, tram rides, a cow train, a play area and other kid-friendly attractions.
For grown-ups, there are wines from a local winery and booths manned by local artists. At the farm’s gift shop, visitors can buy fresh flowers, garden art and décor, flower bulbs and gardening tools.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm
33814 S. Meridian Road
 |
People of all ages enjoy the tulip festival displays |
|---|
Woodburn, Oregon
800-711-2006
www.woodenshoe.com