Important Update — No Fireworks or Drone Show in 2026
The Canadian Tulip Festival has confirmed that there will be no fireworks or drone show on Victoria Day weekend 2026. The festival hopes to bring the drone show back for its Diamond Jubilee in 2027, contingent on community support through the 50/50 raffle.
You can support the 50/50 draw on Rafflebox to help bring the drone show back in 2027.
Source: tulipfestival.ca homepage notice.
About
The Canadian Tulip Festival celebrates Ottawa's unique connection to the Netherlands and the gift of tulips that symbolizes international friendship. Each May, over 300,000 tulips bloom across the National Capital Region.
Festival Dates
- Tulip Trail: May 8-18, 2026
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
- Fireworks & Drone Show: Cancelled for 2026. The festival aims to bring the drone show back for its Diamond Jubilee in 2027.
Best Viewing Locations
- Commissioners Park – Main festival site with over 300,000 tulips alongside Dows Lake
- Major's Hill Park – One of the best sites for tulip blooms
- Alexandra Bridge area – Beautiful tulip displays
- Jacques-Cartier Park (Gatineau) – Worth the visit across the river
- Canadian Museum of History surroundings
What to Expect
- Free admission to see hundreds of thousands of blooming tulips
- Photo opportunities at stunning locations
- Festival programming and activities
- Food vendors and local artisans
Getting There
Festival sites are accessible by walking, cycling, public transit, or driving. Commissioners Park is located along the Rideau Canal near Dows Lake.
Information may change. If you spot anything outdated or incorrect, let us know.
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