As the first blooms of spring emerge, Canada comes alive with vibrant flower festivals that celebrate nature’s colourful comeback. Dive into the warmer months with these celebrations.

From coast to coast, communities in Canada celebrate the spring with beautiful flower festivals that reflect the diversity of the landscape. Whether you’re an experienced gardener, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to stop and smell the roses, there’s a flower festival waiting to brighten your day. Here’s a roundup of some of the most spectacular floral fairs taking place over the season.

Butchart Gardens Spring Prelude – Brentwood Bay, British Columbia

Located on Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is a floral wonderland year-round, but it truly comes alive in spring. The Spring Prelude, which runs until the end of March every year, offers visitors a sneak peek at the season ahead. The lush indoor garden is filled with flowering bulbs, azaleas, camellias, and more, even as winter lingers outside. Then, once the outdoors awakens in April, the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden burst into full bloom.

Abbotsford Tulip Festival – Abbotsford, British Columbia

Nestled in the heart of the Fraser Valley, the Abbotsford Tulip Festival is a radiant celebration of spring’s arrival. Held every April, this festival transforms acres of farmland into a breathtaking sea of tulips, with rows upon rows of colourful blooms stretching as far as the eye can see. The stunning backdrop of snow-capped Mount Baker adds an extra layer of natural beauty, making it a photographer’s dream. The best time to see the blooms is between April 20 and May 5.

Canadian Tulip Festival – Ottawa, Ontario

When it comes to flower festivals in Canada, the Canadian Tulip Festival is a must-see. Held every May in Ottawa, this festival is the largest of its kind in the world, showcasing over a million tulips in bloom across the city. The festival has deep historical roots, dating back to World War II when the Dutch royal family sent 100,000 tulip bulbs to Canada as a token of gratitude. Beyond the blooms, the festival features cultural performances, art installations, and guided tours. This year’s festival will be held from May 9 to 19.

Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival – Nova Scotia

While not a traditional flower festival, the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival in Nova Scotia is a celebration of one of the region’s most iconic spring sights—apple blossoms. Come visit from May 28 to June 2 this year and experience the spectacle of breathtaking apple orchards blooming across the valley, painting the landscape with soft pink and white hues. In addition to admiring the blossoms, visitors can enjoy a parade, a dance party, live entertainment, and local food and drink.

4th Street Lilac Festival – Calgary, Alberta

Every Spring, Calgary’s 4th Street SW transforms into a lively pedestrian paradise during the famous Lilac Festival. On June 1, come take a stroll down the lilac-flanked street and see what all the fuss is about. While the stunning lilacs are the star of the show, the festival is just as much about community spirit as it is about the flowers. The area also comes alive with live musical performances, artisan vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

When the weather gets warmer, it’s time to celebrate the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you’re wandering through a tulip-lined park or sipping coffee under lilac trees, these festivals are sure to get you into the swing of the season.