There will be no tulip festival at Botanica in Chilliwack this spring, due to weather damage in the field.
"It is with deep regret that we must announce the unexpected closure of this year鈥檚 Tulip Festival," Botanica Flower Festivals and Farm said via Instagram last Tuesday (April 2). "Due to circumstances outside of our control, we experienced weather-related damage in a portion of our field.
"We know how much this event meant to so many, and we share in your disappointment."
For those who pre-purchased tickets, Botanica said it would be sending out refunds within the next seven to ten days, from April 2.
The festival, which features nearly two million bulbs and more than 80 different varieties of tulips and spring flowers, was scheduled to open on April 11. This was the festival's second year in Chilliwack and, in anticipation of the crowds it would receive, the event was offering complimentary Ferris wheel rides from April 11 to May 4.
The Ferris wheel was a new addition to the festival, along with a newly planted display garden, a whimsical sun-shaped planting of alliums and daffodils, and the largest spring U-Pick in the Fraser Valley featuring ranunculus, anemones, snapdragons, stock, and other filler flowers.
While the festival cancellation may be disappointing, Botanica said that they are working on bringing other events and things for the public to enjoy this year.
All is not lost, however, for flower enthusiasts. The Abbotsford Tulip Festival and the Harrison Tulip Festival are still on track to take place this spring. The Abbotsford festival is running from April 12 to May 11. And the Harrison festival is running from April 14 to May 11.
Tickets are now available for both festivals.
鈥� with files from Jenna Hauck
