Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, accompanied by her husband, Prof. Pieter van Vollenhoven, officially opened the 74th annual Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa on May 9, 2026. The event, which celebrates the enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands, was marked by a ceremony at Commissioners Park.
Historic Significance
The Canadian Tulip Festival commemorates the gift of tulips sent by the Dutch royal family to Canada after World War II. Princess Margriet herself was born in Ottawa in 1943 while her family was in exile, making her a living symbol of the bond between the two nations.
Festival Highlights
This year's festival features over one million tulips in bloom across the capital, with special displays honoring the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands. Visitors can enjoy live music, art installations, and cultural performances throughout the 10-day event.
Princess Margriet's presence underscores the deep historical ties and ongoing friendship between Canada and the Netherlands. The festival runs until May 19, with free admission to the main tulip beds and paid access to special exhibits.
