The sun has been shining; the air has been warmer and the daffodils are in full bloom…. It has been beautiful weather! But with the flowers blooming…those of you that are planning on attending the 30th annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, may be asking yourself… what does this mean for the tulips!?! That would depend on when you plan on visiting the fields; although no matter when you go, you will experience the true meaning of Northwest beauty. Everywhere you turn there are fields of color flowing like waves in the breeze, and the area is bustling with activities, welcoming all with open arms. Though everybody has his or her favorite time, for us it has always been the third weekend in April, and if you are looking for the best stress-free way to visit the festival…travel with Expeditions NW!
Our day trip to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival allows you to sit back and relax, taking in the spectacular views while enjoying a hot breakfast as we sail through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Deception Pass, and into Swinomish Channel to La Conner where we will dock for our day of fun!
Skagit County’s oldest community, La Conner, is a historic waterfront town full of unique shops and restaurants, art galleries and locals… all waiting for the onset of visitors that the tulip festival brings. Also rich in native history, the Swinomish Tribe is situated across the Channel from La Conner with the two communities connected by the Rainbow Bridge.
Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde are the two premier fields in Skagit Valley planting hundreds of acres of tulips, daffodils and irises to the delight of tens of thousands of visitors each April. Once April is over, the bulbs are cultivated and shipped around the world for all to enjoy. So…when it comes down to it, whether you buy bulbs or not …you can always say that you saw them when two fields were richly in bloom.
So if your passion is flowers or festivals, bright beautiful colors or just being out in nature… the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a great way to fulfill that passion.
Scientists from around the region will give oral and poster presentations about their ongoing studies of the Elwha River ecosystem. From fisheries and wildlife to geomorphology and sediment transport, come and learn about the terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems of the Elwha. Dr. James R. Karr of the University of Washington will provide the keynote address.
The public is invited to view submitted posters and to hear a lecture by Mr. Yvon Chouinard, a noted environmentalist and founder of the outdoor clothing and gear company Patagonia.
A special event, as scientists, resource managers, and the public gather for a day of reflection, motivation, and celebration. Listen as leaders of the scientific community discuss the meaning and opportunities of the Elwha River Restoration Project. Confirmed invited speakers include:
