CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF GRATITUDE 🌷🇨🇦🇳🇱
In less than three weeks, we will honor a beautiful tradition that dates back 80 years to the end of World War II. As a heartfelt thank you from the Royal Dutch Family and the people of the Netherlands, Ottawa receives 10,000 tulips every year. These vibrant blooms symbolize the enduring friendship and gratitude between our nations.
The tradition began in 1945 when Princess Juliana and Princess Margriet of the Netherlands sent 100,000 tulip bulbs to Canada as a thank you for sheltering the Dutch Royal Family during the war and for Canada’s pivotal role in the liberation of the Netherlands from Nazi occupation. Each year since then, the Dutch have continued to send tulips, brightening our capital city and reminding us of the strong ties between our two countries.
This year, the festival takes on even more significance as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of this touching gesture. The Canadian Tulip Festival, held annually in Ottawa, attracts thousands of visitors who come to witness the sea of colorful blooms and participate in a variety of cultural events and activities. The tulips, in all their vibrant glory, are a living testament to peace, freedom, and international friendship.
Stewart Douglas, a local resident and competitor in this year’s Liberation Trail, shares his personal connection to the festival. “I feel incredibly lucky to pass by these stunning flowers on my runs, especially this year, as the festival feels even more significant,” he says.
“It’s a humbling reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring bonds forged during the war.”
As we approach this significant milestone, we invite everyone to join us in celebrating the beauty and symbolism of the tulips. Whether you’re strolling through the gardens, participating in the Liberation Trail, or simply reflecting on our shared history, the tulip festival offers a moment of gratitude and remembrance.
Swipe to see two pictures that capture the essence of this humble gift. Let’s come together to honor the past and look forward to a future of continued friendship and peace.
#OttawaTulipFestival #LiberationTrail #80yearsfreedom #CanadaNetherlands #RunningThroughHistory #Lestweforget 🌺
