It was such a pleasure to put together this feature for I Like Her Style Vancouver magazine and feature one of my favorite events of the year, The Abbotsford Tulip Festival. I’ve attended every year, and for the last two years have also gone during magic hour. Writing my top 5 things to know before going to the Abbotsford Tulip Festival for the “Home & Garden” issue of I Like Her Style came naturally to this Abbotsford blogger.
See the full magazine issue online here.
More awesome submissions from Jillian Harris, The Relationship Project, Nira Arora, Natalie Langston & More!
Would it be spring if your Instagram feed wasn’t filled with tulips? It’s almost that time to grab your cameras and head to the valley, and we are so excited!
Started by Alexis Warmerdam a fourth generation tulip farmer, the Abbotsford Tulip Festival has attracted hundreds of thousands of people from around the world since they opened in Spring 2016. Not surprising though, walking through the tulip fields is breathtaking. It’s on my list of things to do every year and each year does not disappoint.
I’ve personally been every year, a couple times during regular hours and for the last two years decided to wake up for their sunrise session. It seems silly setting that alarm and waking up before the sun hits the sky but the views of sunrise and fields of florals is always worth it.
As you prep for your own visit to the Abbotsford Tulip Festival I wanted to share some insider tips on how to make the best of it. I’ve also got a list of some of my favourite places to explore after the festival as Abbotsford has some beautiful locally owned gems that you need to visit.
Photography: Julie Christine Photography (Abbotsford photographer, highly recommend if you are considering booking a family or portrait session during your visit)
Things to Know Before Going to the Abbotsford Tulip Festival
1. Buy Your Tickets Online
For previous years when buying tickets, purchasing online will save you money. Not only that, for weekends, which often sell out, you are required to purchase online in advance as they may not offer tickets upon entry. Keep your eye on their social media for special announcements, sell out dates or discounted rates. Last year they released tickets on each Tuesday for the week in advance. Note: Parking is free. For tickets to the Abbotsford Tulip FestivalClick Here
2. Wear Appropriate Footwear
To some this might seem like a silly thing to mention, but you’d be surprised how many people show up wearing sandals or heels. I’ve personally seen it a number of times while visiting. Keep in mind it’s a farm and boots are by far your best option for footwear.
Our Matching Mommy & Mini Boots: Kamik Footwear
3. Plan Your Day Ahead of Time
Once you have booked your ticket online map out how much travel time you need to consider. There are lots of locally owned places in Abbotsford that are worth the visit when you are in town. Make sure to do a visit to Downtown Abbotsford where you can find; Little Brother, Habit, Spruce Collective, Montrose and George, Valley Food Farm, Fieldhouse, Bureaux, Old Hand Coffee, Duft and Co., Yes Chef, Polly Fox, Tracy Cakes and more
4. Deals for Locals
Back again this year is locals night. After 3PM on Tuesday and Thursdays you can head to the tulip fields and enjoy discounted ticket rates. When you buy online you pay $2.50 verses $4.00 at the gate. Only one person in your vehicle must present an Abbotsford drivers license too! Stay tuned on their social media @abbotsfordtulipfestival for locals nights for Langley, Mission and Chilliwack happening throughout the season as well.
5. Bring Your Camera & Make Note of their Hashtags
Each year they have released photo contests where they choose their favourite images from the season and award some pretty awesome prizes. With categories in portrait, landscape, couples, kids and pets everyone has an opportunity to enter. Use the tag #bloomsbest2019 on your photos from the festival to be automatically entered. A couple more of their hashtags are #colourinthecountry #abbotsfordtulipfestival #bloomwellprepared and even #locklipsfortulips for the romantics.
5 Locally Owned Places to go While in Abbotsford
- Little Brother
A brunch made with with locally sourced products, simplicity in mind and French bistro inspiration. Little Brother is indeed a must visit while in the area, and if you ask me the Croque Madame is what you need to order. Follow @littlebrotherbrunch
- Montrose & George General Store
This recently relocated locally owned boutique shop replanted right in the heart of downtown Abbotsford. Montrose and George has the general store feel that offers quality products for a wholesome lifestyle. Follow @montrose.and.george
- Valley Food Farm
A fairly new gem in Abbotsford and making a statement for itself. This not for profit organization has been put together for the sole reason of bring community together. During their events you can often find local vendors, local makers and local musicians and coming together to create a relaxing atmosphere to be enjoyed. Follow @valleyfoodfarm
- Habit
Known for their cold-pressed juices and smoothie bowls Habit is a perfect place to stop to get refuelled from a busy day. The ladies of Habit are very community oriented, often have collaborative nut mylks and juices in store making each visit unique with something new to discover. Follow @thehabitproject
- Spruce Collective
This local shop is filled with treasures in every corner. From locally made to vintage favourites you can find a number of gems with every step through Spruce Collective. Their play house in the middle of the space offers a spot for your little one to imagine and play giving a moment for you to discover what’s in store. Follow @sprucecollective
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