
STOP #6
The Beginning of the Festival at the Festival Tulip Garden
1953
In 1953 the Canadian Tulip Festival was born. Spanning over seven decades, the Festival has hosted royalty, heads of state, and honoured veterans.
It is the mission of the Canadian Tulip Legacy, a nationally registered charity, to ensure this Festival, and the Royal Dutch Gift of Tulips remains free for everyone, forever.
‘We had all these tulips and I thought they belonged to all Canadians, so I thought we should create a tulip festival.’
— Canadian Tulip Festival Founder, Malak Karsh
Our Founder, Malak Karsh
Malak Karsh, the visionary behind the Canadian Tulip Festival, immigrated to Canada from Armenia (then Turkey) in 1937. As a renowned photographer, Karsh captured the essence of Canada from coast to coast to coast, showcasing the nation’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage. His profound love for his adopted country earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Officer of the Order of Canada in 1996.
Traversing the length and breadth of Canada, Karsh meticulously documented its natural wonders and iconic landmarks, immortalizing scenes such as the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, the legendary log drivers on the Gatineau and Ottawa Rivers, and the picturesque Patterson Inlet in the Glebe. From the rugged beauty of the Canadian Arctic to the serene coastlines of Atlantic Canada, Karsh’s lens captured the diverse beauty of the nation, leaving an indelible mark on Canadian photography.
With a deep affection for Ottawa, Karsh proudly inscribed each of his photographs with the word “Ottawa,” signifying his connection to the nation’s capital. Among his many photographic endeavors, Karsh’s images of tulips, gifted by the Dutch, resonated deeply across the country, sparking widespread interest in the floral symbol of friendship.
Driven by his passion for tulips and inspired by the Dutch gift, Karsh approached the Ottawa Board of Trade with the innovative idea of a tulip festival. His tireless advocacy and unwavering commitment bore fruit in 1953 when the inaugural Canadian Tulip Festival blossomed into reality, uniting communities and celebrating the enduring bond between Canada and the Netherlands.
Timeline of the Festival
Big Chief
Big Chief tulips typically bloom in the late spring, around April to May, and their tall stems make them perfect for adding height to garden beds or for use in cut flower arrangements. These tulips have a classic, bold appearance and can grow to heights of about 16–18 inches (40–45 cm), giving them a commanding presence in any setting.
Eagle Wings
The Eagle Wings tulip is a striking and unique variety known for its elegant and dramatic appearance. This cultivar is part of the parrot tulip family, distinguished by its intricately fringed, feather-like petals that give it a dynamic, almost exotic look. The blooms are a blend of creamy white and rich, deep purple, with the edges of the petals displaying a wavy, feathery texture, resembling the wings of an eagle. hence the name.
Red Dress
The Red Dress tulip is a stunning variety known for its vibrant, deep red blooms that resemble the elegance of a well-fitted gown. The flowers have a smooth, cup-shaped appearance with bold, slightly pointed petals that create a refined, sophisticated look. Standing at about 14–18 inches (35–45 cm) tall, this tulip is perfect for adding color and drama to gardens or floral arrangements.
Lightening Sun
The Lightning Sun tulip is a captivating variety known for its striking color contrast and unique petal shape. Its vibrant yellow blooms are accented with fiery red streaks, resembling the dynamic energy of a lightning bolt. This tulip grows to a height of about 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) and stands out in gardens, borders, and floral arrangements. Blooming in mid-spring, the Lightning Sun tulip thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a bold and cheerful addition to any landscape.