Just in time for Mother’s Day, Toronto Tulip Day is once again brightening up the city gifting attendees bouquets of tulips for free this weekend!
Taking place this Saturday, May 10 2025 at Nathan Phillips Square from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Dutch Consulate will gift 40,000 tulips to the people of Toronto—an enduring symbol of freedom, remembrance, and friendship.
The event hosted by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Toronto honours the 80th anniversary of the Netherlands’ liberation which was made possible through the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of Canadian men and women during the Second World War.
Kicking off at 10 a.m., the day will start with opening remarks from Harman Idema, Consul General of the Netherlands in Toronto. Following the ceremony, members of the public are invited to collect free tulip bulbs available until 5 p.m. (while supplies last).
The tradition of gifting tulips dates back to 1945, when the Netherlands first sent thousands of tulip bulbs to Canada in thanks for the liberation of Dutch territory and the refuge Canada provided to the Dutch Royal Family during the war.
“The ties between the Netherlands and Canada run deep, rooted in shared history and mutual respect,” said Consul General Idema.
“The gift of tulip bulbs has a dual purpose of honoring the past by expressing our enduring gratitude to Canada, while also symbolizing a commitment to nurturing our bilateral relationship so that it continues to thrive for years to come.”
Each person will receive a bundle of 10 tulips. No registration or entry fee is required, and all are welcome to attend.
If you just can’t get enough flowers, Saturday will also be the first Toronto Flower Market of the season, taking place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 1001 Queen St West! The market will feature an array of Ontario-grown flower vendors, gifts, plants, and so much more.