2026 Albany Tulip Festival

About this event

The Tulip Festival is Albany’s signature spring celebration and one of the Northeast’s most beloved annual events. Held each year on Mother’s Day weekend and presented by KeyBank, this free festival honors the city’s Dutch heritage and showcases the best of local culture, community, and creativity.

Stroll through over 100,000 blooming tulips across historic Washington Park, the city’s 81-acre "crown jewel." Shop from 100+ artisans offering handmade crafts, explore local food vendors, and enjoy world-class live entertainment.

2026 Festival Details

• When: Saturday, May 9 – Sunday, May 10, 2026
• Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Where: Washington Park, Albany, NY
• Cost: Free and open to the public

Tradition & Heritage

Since 1949, the festival has blended history with modern flair. Key traditions for 2026 include:

• Street Scrubbing (May 8): The official kickoff ceremony at State & Lodge Streets, featuring Mayor Dr. Dorcey L. Applyrs and the Dutch Settlers Society.
• Tulip Queen Coronation (May 9): Join MC Chad O’Hara at the Lakehouse Stage at noon to see the 78th Albany Tulip Queen crowned.
• Royal Tulip Ball: An elegant evening of dining and dancing at the New York State Museum to honor the new Queen and Court.
• Mother of the Year (May 10): The 27th annual ceremony recognizing the Capital Region’s most outstanding moms at the Lakehouse Stage.

World-Class Entertainment

Music and performances take place across multiple stages throughout the weekend:

ParkAlbany Main Stage

Located at the Parade Grounds, featuring nationally touring acts and local favorites:

• Saturday Highlights: R&B from The E-Block, a headlining set by indie-rockers Joywave, and a performance by 19-year-old guitar prodigy Grace Bowers.
• Sunday Highlights: Tropical rhythms from the Alex Torres Group, high-energy hits from The Ill Funk Ensemble, and MJ The Illusion, a premier Michael Jackson tribute experience.

Toyota & WEXT 518 Stage

Located at the Lakehouse, showcasing the region's best independent talent:

• Performances include queer pop artist Keegan James, surf-punk favorites The Sugar Hold, folk-rocker Delaney Hafener (The Belle Curves), and soul ensemble Tops of Trees.

Family & Wellness Activities

• Price Chopper/Market 32 KidZone: A non-stop destination for families featuring Andy “The Music Man,” Melvin the Magnificent, and the Music Mobile. The area includes pony rides, a rock-climbing wall, bounce houses, and games.
• AFSP Wellness Stage: An expanded area with 20+ vendors and free workshops. Join sessions in Zumba, AfroBeats, Bellydancing, and yoga.
• Yogafest (May 10): Start your Sunday with a massive outdoor yoga session hosted by The Hot Yoga Spot at 9:00 AM on the Main Parade Grounds.

Planning Your Visit

• Free Shuttles: CDTA provides continuous shuttle service from the Eagle Street Garage and Elk Street Parking Lot from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Accessibility: Dedicated handicap parking is located at the Albany Medical Center lot (Robin & Morris Streets) with an accessible shuttle to the park entrance.
• Tulip Tours: Join City Gardener Jena DiTonno for guided tours of the tulip beds leading up to the festival (May 5–7; reservations required).
• Tulip Bulb Sale: Don't miss the famous Tulip Dig (May 16) and Bulb Sale (May 17) to bring a piece of the festival home to your own garden!

For more information, visit www.albanyevents.org or follow @AlbanyNYevents on social media.