Tulip Time Announces Parade Route Update to Enhance Public Safety

Tulip Time celebrating 96 years Is a few short months away. We are looking forward to warmer weather, inviting Spring and blooming tulips, along with many great events May 2-11, 2025. Along with planning many events throughout the week, we continue to work with our local partners focusing on safety for our children, community members and visitors who participate in and attend our events.  

In a collaborative effort to prioritize public safety, Tulip Time, in partnership with the City of Holland, and the Holland Police Department, is announcing an adjustment to the Quality Car Wash Volksparade, Saturday May 10, 2025. This proactive adjustment comes in response to evolving safety concerns at large events in our country, including incidents such as an event in New Orleans, where a vehicle entered a parade route with devastating consequences. This May, the Quality Volksparade will begin at Columbia and 8th Street, continue to travel down 8th Street and will end at 11th and VanRaalte past Kollen Park.   This route mirrors the Thursday Gentex Kinderparade, reducing the overall number of road closures, and improving traffic flow.  This decision reflects a shared commitment to the safety and well-being of parade participants, residents, and guests from around the world. 

The decision to adjust the route was not made lightly but with unanimous agreement between Tulip Time, city officials, and local law enforcement. “By shortening the route and concentrating resources, law enforcement can better ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees”, says Gwen Auwerda, Executive Director of Tulip Time. This change also underscores the festival’s dedication to fostering a positive and safe experience for everyone involved. 

“When faced with questions about the safety of Holland residents and our guests, we will always choose to do what we can to keep you safe,” said Holland Mayor Nathan Bocks. “This year will be different for all of us. I invite you to join us in embracing new traditions as we celebrate Tulip Time together with family, friends, and visitors.” 

Tulip Time will continue to deliver a fun, exciting parade with bands, floats, and unique entries from our local community. Petosky Steel Drum Band will provide post parade entertainment in front of New Holland Brewing.  New this year,  Hudsonville Ice Cream will be handing out Ice cream bars before the parade and after the parade until supplies are gone.  “The Tulip Time Festival is a tradition our team looks forward to every year. Our Hudsonville Drill Team already has their scoops and songs ready for this year’s event! We love to celebrate our community and our hometown, and we’re proud to be part of such a special annual event in Holland again in 2025,” says representatives from Hudsonville Ice Cream.   

Experience Tulip Time at the 96th Festival, May 2 – 11, 2025. Detailed program and event information for Tulip Time Festival 2025 and tickets are available at www.TulipTime.com.