Spring comes alive on Boulder’s Pearl Street during the Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival, with thousands of colorful tulips in bloom and the Rocky Mountains rising in the distance.

Spring in Boulder bursts to life in the most magical way imaginable with the return of the Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival—one of the city’s most beloved and colorful traditions. Set against a backdrop of Pearl Street’s blossoming tulip gardens, this whimsical event captures the spirit of Boulder’s community, creativity, and vibrant celebration of nature.

Celebrating spring magic on Pearl Street—one of the top outdoor malls in the country—among Boulder’s famous tulips.

Each year, hundreds of children dressed as fairies, elves, and woodland creatures gather to parade along the famous Pearl Street Mall. Adults join in the fun too, with many donning wings, floral crowns, and even a few clever elf ears, making the festival a true all-ages event. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, with a day full of live music, storytelling, face painting, and, of course, the breathtaking sea of colorful tulips.

A Magical Tradition in the Heart of Boulder

The Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival began decades ago as a way to celebrate the arrival of spring and to highlight the incredible beauty of the Pearl Street tulip beds, which feature more than 15,000 tulips imported directly from Holland each year. Over time, it has evolved into a full-blown community celebration, drawing families from Boulder, Denver, and beyond.

It’s not just about the costumes and the flowers—this event embodies Boulder’s playful spirit, its love of the outdoors, and its deep appreciation for community gatherings. Businesses along Pearl Street get involved too, offering fun activities, treats, and surprises for festival-goers throughout the day.

Fun Facts About the Festival

• 15,000 tulips bloom along Pearl Street every spring, creating a dazzling floral display.

• The tulips are planted by Boulder’s Parks and Recreation department every fall, and different varieties bloom in a rainbow of colors.

• Kids and adults alike are encouraged to come dressed up—whether it’s fairy wings, elf ears, or colorful spring costumes.

• The event is free and open to the public, making it one of Boulder’s most accessible and joyful family events.

• Live performances, including local musicians, circus acts, and storytelling tents, add to the lively, carnival-like atmosphere.

Why Tomorrow’s Festival Matters More Than Ever

After a long winter, Boulderites are more than ready to shake off the chill and welcome the season of renewal. This festival is a reminder that joy, color, and community spirit are alive and well. It’s a time to reconnect—whether you’re five years old or seventy-five—and to experience the magic of spring in a town that truly embraces the changing seasons.

Whether you’re watching the Tulip Fairy Parade, snapping photos among the vibrant flowers, or simply soaking up the warm energy of the day, the Tulip Fairy and Elf Festival promises to be a highlight of the year.

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