Visiting the Tulip UN-Festival in Pella, Iowa

Yesterday I travelled about 1.5 hours west to the Dutch-influenced city of Pella, Iowa. There is an annual tulip festival there but it is cancelled this year-another Covid casualty. That did not stop the tulips from coming up and blooming however! We visited all of the many tulip beds. And I hope these photos brighten your day...

Two cheery tulip cutouts reminded about 6 feet for social distancing. Really no need-because very few people were out and about.

Windmill replicas are all around town.

Lots of varieties and shades of tulips. About 40- 50% of the beds were in full bloom on Sunday.

Historic buildings circa 1850 are all around town

and recall Pella's Dutch immigrant history.

Old world charm is reflected in imitation canals that flow in between  buildings, pretty tile artworks throughout town and bronze sculptures of Dutch life pop up in unexpected places. 

Remember Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates?

Windmill Museum

A Dutch woman agreed to a photo with me. She was a bit cold but she 

had a nice smile.

In case I left out anyone's favorite color- here are a few more beauties.

 This exquisite Italianate Villa style home was a treat to see driving to and from Pella. It was built in 1871 by John Voorhees- one of the Dutch immigrant founders of Pella. 

Notice the date of 1871 written in tile on the roof.