Sixth annual fest to boast more than 1 million blooms in 75+ varieties
SPRING GROVE — Even as the area’s naked trees still harken to winter’s chill, folks can count on the cheerful color-pop of tulips to signal spring.
And at the Richardson Farm Tulip Fest, visitors can count on more than 1 million vibrant blooms in over 75 varieties, with the latest of them planted in the flowing shape of a butterfly across 10 lakeside acres. Expected to open in late April, the fest will beckon with everything from ruby-red Apeldoorns to pale yellow and pink Elegant Ladies, dark purple Queens of the Night, and white and purple Di Dis. About 100,000 daffodils also will entice.
“That first burst of color in the very early spring when the trees are still brown is just a delight for the senses,” said George Richardson, who operates the farm at 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove, along with his wife, Wendy, brother, Robert, Robert’s wife, Carol, George’s son, Ryan, and Ryan’s wife, Kristen.
Exactly when the sixth annual fest will open, as always, depends on Mother Nature. Those signing up for the Richardson Farm newsletter at richardsonfarm.com will be among the first alerted when opening day is determined. Following the farm on social media also is a great way to stay up to speed as the bloom date approaches.
The Richardsons track the number of days when the average daily temperature is above 40 degrees, the temperature at which tulips progress toward full bloom.
When the fest does open, hours will be 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays for the duration of the typically two- to three-week event, which features live music and food trucks on weekends. The fest also features free parking, dog-friendly grounds, plus mimosas, a wine bar, modern restroom facilities, fresh donuts and seasonal gifts available at the gift barn.
At the lakefront, friends can enjoy outdoor games like Giant Jenga, Connect 4 or bags — or just sit, talk and take in the view.
“I love that the tulip experience on our farm gives people another opportunity to create memories together,” said Ryan Richardson. “Be it a young couple on a date, grandparents walking hand in hand, or a whole family and the dog, there is something everyone can enjoy.”
Among food trucks expected to be present on weekends are MJ’s Coffee Bar, Fork ’n’ Fry Poutinerie and Pixie Dawgs. A 9th Hour Brewing craft beer tent also will be on hand. Donuts, kettle corn, sandwiches, smoothies, soft drinks, beer and wine will beckon.
“Potted tulips will be available both in the fields as well as in the gift shop,” Carol Richardson added. “A lot of the bulbs we sold in the fall are now planted for spring viewing.”
A new amenity this year will be large graphics showing where different tulip varieties are planted, plus storyboards illuminating the history of tulips through the ages.
“There’s a really interesting history to tulips. I think some people will truly enjoy that,” said George Richardson, noting that the Sultans of Persia were among the first to prize their spectacular petals dating all the way back to the 10th century.
He also noted that modern-day tulip fans should be certain not to miss the Double Yellow Pomponettes while visiting the fest.
“They have the most wonderful scent,” he said.
Fest admission is $20 per person ages 13 and up, $17 for those ages 4 to 12 and free for those 3 and younger. One free tulip is included. Additional tulips can be purchased for $2 each. Commercial photographers are advised to check out the Tulip Festival Photography page at richardsonfarm.com before visiting.