In 2019, I booked a flight to Amsterdam from JFK even though I’m based in DC. I figured out the logistics to arrange transportation from DC to NYC to board this flight. I thought my flight departed on a Tuesday night leading into Wednesday. But when I got an email saying my flight boards on that Monday night, I stupidly learned that I had messed up. I read the ticket time completely wrong and ultimately missed my flight. I was so embarrassed that when I returned to work from my supposed vacation, I lied to my co-workers by saying I had massive diarrhea from food poisoning. But its okay. Because Amsterdam isn’t going anywhere.
A year later in 2020, I booked a flight to Amsterdam — this time from my home airport. What could possibly go wrong? Oh right just a small little virus called COVID, which you know shut the ENTIRE world down. I was extremely devastated. I envisioned myself for so long strolling the millions of tulips among the acres of fields. Years later while looking for spring activities in the DC area, I stumbled upon Burnside Farms in Northern Virginia. The fields are similar to the ones in Holland and JUST what I need to feed my spring fever.
Burnside Farms Spring Tulip Festival
Every year, Burnside Farms hosts one of the longest-running spring festivals of its kind in North America. They plant more than 150 varieties of tulips and 30+ varieties of daffodils imported from Holland, making this festival one of a kind. They have a replica Dutch windmill giving you that feel that you’re in a Holland tulip farm. There’s also a picnic & play area for kids and a couple of food truck vendors making this the perfect way to spend a spring day!
Things to Know
Dates and Hours: Usually late March/mid April — Open daily 8am to dusk
Tickets: Time entry and limited daily tickets are available online. Weekday $19, Weekend $21, Early bird & Sunset $23-25. Sign up here to be the first to know when tickets go live.
Things to Bring: farm-worthy footwear, water, phone and/or professional camera, and picnic basket/blanket (if planning to eat in the picnic area). If you plan to buy anything, bring your credit card as cash is not accepted.
Food and Amenities: Food trucks are announced the day of on their field report page. They have cold drinks and light snacks for purchase at checkout.
Tips for Visiting
Best Time to Visit: You’re going to have keep checking their field report page to know when the tulips are in full bloom. I recommend going during the weekday and early morning with lesser crowds. We went between 9-12 giving us plenty of space in the fields, but when we left the line to get in was super long. Ticket holders can stay as long as they want so keep that in mind if you come later in the day. Also, take the weather into consideration. You’re going to want to go when its sunny. The fields will be closed when rainy.
What to Wear: DC weather is so unpredictable especially in the spring so dress in layers. You can honestly wear what you want, but remember, you’ll be walking in lots of fields that may be wet so don’t wear something you wouldn’t want to get dirty. I did see people in various outfits so don’t feel like you have to wear rain boots. Wear a hat and sunglasses as there is no shade in the fields.
Where to Eat + Drink: There’s several places nearby to eat or drink if you want to make this a day trip away from the city. Unfortunately, I only made a short stop for food before heading back home. I did not have a chance to check these places out but I’ll list the highly rated ones. For wineries, check out Nokesville Winery and Effingham Manor & Winery for some amazing views. If you’re into beer, then check out Cedar Run Brewery or 2 Silos Brewing Co. You’ll certainly want to fill your stomach before sitting through DC traffic. About 5 minutes down the road, you can check out local restaurants such as Tejanos Cantina or Carini’s Pizzeria. As you drive back towards the city, you’ll find plenty of fast food chains like Panera Bread and Jersey Mike’s.
Other Information: Five flowers are included with your ticket! After that, you may purchase each tulip for a $1 each and daffodils are 2 for $1. Baskets are available to borrow while you pick your flowers, but I recommend bringing a small vase or bucket with water in the car to keep your flowers hydrated for the ride home. I did not know do this and lets say by the time I got home, I lost a tulip (whomp)! Bring the kids, but don’t bring your dog. Tulips can be toxic for dogs, which makes me sad because the tulips would make a great backdrop for your furry friend. BUT they have sunflowers in the summer so you can bring your dog then.
Experience the Netherlands in Virginia
The Burnside Farms Spring Tulip Festival brings the vibrant spirit of Holland to Northern Virginia. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival is an unforgettable way to enjoy nature, beauty, and the magic of spring. You won’t need a passport to experience this unique spring activity just 40 miles west of DC!
Will you be planning a trip to Burnside Farms this spring? Let me know your favorite way to enjoy the festival! xoxo
