Michigan has once again secured top spots in the USA Today’s 10Best List for Best Flower Festivals in the U.S. The Tulip Time festival in Holland and the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival have been ranked among the top five in the country.
Tulip Time, which takes place from May 2 to May 11, 2025, is ranked No. 5. This festival is renowned for its stunning display of over 6 million tulips, with more than 200,000 blooming in the downtown area alone. Beyond the flowers, Tulip Time celebrates Dutch heritage with music, dancing, artisan markets, and parades.
Mackinac Island’s Lilac Festival, ranked No. 3, occurs from June 13 to June 15. It began as a way to attract visitors with horse-drawn carriage rides among the island’s fragrant lilacs. Today, it features the coronation of the Lilac Queen, a 10k run/walk, lilac planting seminars, a cornhole tournament, live music, and a popular Grand Parade.
Both festivals have consistently been recognized in USA Today’s 10Best List, with Tulip Time previously ranked No. 3 and the Lilac Festival ranked No. 2. The rankings are determined by a public vote following nominations by a panel of experts from USA Today and 10Best.com.
The top 10 flower festivals in the U.S. also include the Daffodil Festival at Gibbs Gardens in Georgia, Zoo Blooms at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in Ohio, and the Rochester Lilac Festival in New York. Michigan’s festivals stand out for their unique blend of natural beauty and cultural activities, making them must-visit destinations for flower enthusiasts across the country.
