Two Michigan Flower Festivals Named Best in the US: Mackinaw Island’s Lilac Festival (#3) and Holland’s Tulip Time Festival (#5) – In Michigan, the saying is true: April showers bring May flowers, and they don’t disappoint either. While the state is known for its endless coastal shores and stunning waterfalls, Michigan also has the perfect climate for breathtaking flowers. So much so that two of Michigan’s iconic flower festivals were named on USA Today’s list of 10 Most Spectacular Flower Festivals Across the US: Mackinaw Island’s Lilac Festival (#3) and Holland’s Tulip Time Festival (#5).
Tulip Time Festival: May 2 - 11, 2025 | Holland, Michigan
Millions of tulips, as far as the eyes can see. Rows of endless rows, magnificent colors line the city streets and gardens burst with beauty at the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, MI. The quaint little town of Holland comes alive, bustling with tourists from all over the globe. Holland’s Tulip Time Festival will take place from Friday, May 2 through Sunday, May 11 – when the tulips are anticipated to be in full bloom. The festival includes 10 days of festival events and activities for the whole family. You won’t want to miss the ultimate spring event of the year.
Tulips can also be seen free of charge in public parks and along downtown streets, but certain areas of the festival are reserved for ticket holders. Tickets can be purchased for special events, such as the Tulip Immersion Walking Tour, that takes participants through the history of the tulip and exclusive access to parts of the festival.
The festival also includes historic musical performances, dutch dance lessons, artisan market vendors, food and dining, and so much more. This immersive cultural event is an experience of a lifetime. It is no wonder it was one of two Michigan Flower Festivals Named Best in the US – sitting at #5 out of 10.
Tip: We recommend going early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the most of your visit. For tickets and a full line up of the festival, visit Tulip time
Lilac Festival: June 6 - 15, 2025 | Mackinac Island, Michigan
Stunning purple lilacs create a stir on the already picturesque Mackinac Island. An experience for all the senses – a fragrance that leaves you wanting more. The island comes alive again after a long winter, celebrating the vibrant bloom of the lilacs. The annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival is slated for Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 15, 2025. This 10-day festival – the first and largest summer event on Mackinac Island, includes daily lilac walking tours, planting sessions, concerts in the park, and more.
The lilac blooms are naturally the highlight of the event and the star of the show, as Mackinac Island is famous for its abundant lilac bushes. Visitors have the opportunity to view more than 100 different varieties and colors of the iconic flower. Another exciting event during the festival is touring provide gardens on the island to see the stunning flowers at their peak. A grand parade features a marching band, colorful floats, and horses decked out in lilacs.
Other attractions include an artisan market with artwork, jewelry and more, lilac-themed food and drinks, and musical performances that create a magical atmosphere amongst the flowers. It is a celebration of nature’s wonders and the beautiful and rich history of the island, making it one of the two Michigan Flower Festivals Named Best in the US – sitting at #3 out of 10 on USA Today’s list of 10 Most Spectacular Flower Festivals Across the US. Learn more at Mackinac Island Lilac Festival.
A shout out to USA for honoring these twoMichigan Flower Festivals Named Best in the US!
Other flower festivals in Michigan this summer:
- 8th Annual Lavender Harvest Festival at Lavender Lane Farms – Milan, MI | Saturday, July 12 – 13, 2025
- Sunflower Festival at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill – Armada, MI | August 22-24 and August 30 – September 1, 2025
- Peony Garden blooms at the Nicols Arboretum – Ann Arbor, MI | TBD (typically late-May to mid-June)
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