Albany's 78th Annual Tulip Festival Blooms with Music, Art, and Family Fun

The signature spring event returns to Washington Park on May 9-10 with over 100,000 tulips, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and more.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:37am

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A dreamy, impressionistic photograph showing the blurred outlines of tulips, people, and a performance stage in a park, all bathed in a warm, soft light.The annual Tulip Festival in Albany's Washington Park brings the community together to celebrate the arrival of spring with vibrant blooms, local art and music, and family-friendly activities.Albany Today

The City of Albany has announced the schedule and lineup for the 78th annual Tulip Festival in Albany's Washington Park. The free weekend-long event on May 9-10 will feature over 100,000 blooming tulips, more than 100 artisan vendors, a variety of food options, a Kid Zone family destination, four live music stages, and a wellness area with free classes and workshops.

Why it matters

The Tulip Festival is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates Albany's Dutch heritage and the arrival of spring. The festival draws over 100,000 visitors to Washington Park each year, supporting local businesses and artists while providing the community with a weekend of family-friendly entertainment and activities.

The details

In addition to the tulip displays, the festival will feature a Tulip Queen coronation ceremony, a variety of musical acts ranging from pop and R&B to rock and Americana, a Kid Zone with performances for children, and a wellness area with free yoga, meditation, and other health-focused classes and workshops. Attendees can also browse the wares of over 100 local artisans and enjoy a selection of food vendors.

  • The 78th annual Tulip Festival will take place on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, 2026.
  • The free CDTA shuttle will run continuously to Washington Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both festival days.
  • The Tulip Queen Coronation Ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9.

The players

City of Albany

The organizer of the annual Tulip Festival, which celebrates the city's Dutch heritage and the arrival of spring.

Washington Park

The 81-acre park in Albany that hosts the Tulip Festival, featuring over 100,000 blooming tulips.

CDTA

The Capital District Transportation Authority, which will provide free shuttle service to and from the festival.

Dr. Dorcey Applyrs

The Mayor of Albany, who will participate in the Tulip Queen Coronation Ceremony.

Dutch Settlers Society

A group that will join the Tulip Queen Procession as part of the coronation ceremony.

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What’s next

The City of Albany will share a public safety plan for the Tulip Festival weekend as the event gets closer. For more information, visitors can check the Albany Events website or call (518) 434-2032.

The takeaway

The Tulip Festival is a cherished community event that brings Albany residents and visitors together to enjoy the beauty of spring, support local artists and businesses, and celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage. The festival's diverse lineup of music, art, food, and family-friendly activities ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy.