This is Iowa’s most colorful event! Thousands of blooming tulips and authentic Dutch costumes all add to the color and splendor of the festival. You’re off to the “Tulip Festival Parade”. Your reserved
seats at the parade allow you to see the Grandstand show, including the Dutch Cheese Market, Street and Stage Entertainment, Presentation of Royal Court, Dutch Dancers, Street Scrubbers, and the best view of the Volks Parade! The Volks Parade is a spectacular showing of floats, bands and many Dutch specialty attractions. Other activities include admission to the Dutch Historical Village, open wagon tour of the community, a tour of the Scholte House & Gardens, and time to browse the unique shops filled with everything from Dutch Lace to delicious “Dutch Letters.” Be sure to stop and see the KLOKKENSPEL (animated figures set in motion by a large clock). On Friday explore the Amana Colonies, a charming blend of historic treasures, beautiful landscapes, quaint villages and rich ethnic heritage. A narrated tour through the colonies with time to browse and shop. The craftsman-like skills have been handed down through the generations. There is a special experience in each of the colonies we stop in from wine & beer making, hand crafting furniture, old hearth oven’s baking fresh bread, broom & basket making, sausage and cheese. Each of the colonies contributes their unique talents. Before returning home, stop for lunch at the famous Ox Yoke Inn, built in 1856 and once a traditional Amana colonies communal kitchen. The original recipes for many of the dishes are still used at the Inn today.