Wamego’s Tulip Festival: Over 10,000 Tulips, 150+ Vendors & Small-Town Magic in Bloom
When the tulips bloom in Wamego, Kansas, you know spring has officially arrived. While I’ve been swamped with work lately and the blog may have taken a back seat (hey, real estate doesn’t slow down for spring!), I couldn’t let this event sneak up without sharing one of my absolute favorite annual happenings—The Tulip Festival in Wamego, KS!
Mark your calendars: April 15th–16th is when this charming small town turns into a floral wonderland filled with fun, food, and family-friendly festivities.
A Festival Bursting with Color (and 10,000+ Tulips!)
Each April, Wamego’s City Park and historic downtown are transformed by a vibrant sea of more than 10,000 tulips in full bloom. It’s like walking through a real-life postcard, where every turn brings another pop of color, a photo op, and a chance to stop and smell the tulips—literally!
If you’re someone who needs a reason to get out of town for a bit (other than needing to come up for air between work emails and laundry piles), this festival is the perfect excuse for a day trip that will leave your camera roll and your heart full.
Whether you're a plant lover, photographer, or just someone who appreciates small-town charm and a great funnel cake, the Wamego Tulip Festival is one of those “can’t-miss” Midwest moments.
Explore Wamego’s Charming Downtown
Before (or after) you hit the tulip trail, make sure to explore Downtown Wamego. It’s brimming with local gems that make this town so special. Start your visit at the Oz Museum, which pays homage to the timeless story that continues to enchant generations. You’ll find original memorabilia and fascinating exhibits that take you behind the curtain of the Wizard of Oz.
Next up, pop into the OZ Winery, where you can sip wine in a tasting room that’s as whimsical as it is delicious. They have wine names inspired by Oz (because, of course), and it’s the perfect way to wind down after walking through the rows of tulips.
Oh—and don’t forget to hunt for the many "Toto" statues scattered around town! My personal favorite is the one on the Yellow Brick Road. (Yes, there’s an actual Yellow Brick Road in Wamego. You can't make this stuff up—it’s magical.)
What to Expect at the Wamego Tulip Festival
Let’s talk numbers, because this festival goes big:
- 10,000+ tulips in bloom 🌷
- 150+ craft and food vendors
- 2 full days of family fun
That’s not even counting all the activities happening in Wamego City Park, which is the heart of the event.
You can spend hours meandering through the vendor booths, discovering handcrafted jewelry, home decor, original artwork, locally made goodies, and festival treats galore. Let’s be honest—no trip to a spring festival is complete without indulging in something deep-fried, dipped in chocolate, or served on a stick.
But the fun doesn’t stop with shopping and snacking. The Tulip Festival is packed with family-friendly attractions, including:
- Playgrounds and inflatables for the littles
- A petting zoo (cue the “awws”)
- The beloved park mini-train that’s fun for all ages
- Live entertainment throughout the weekend
And don’t miss the opportunity to step back in time by visiting the Prairie Town Village, Historical Museum, Old Schoolhouse, and the beautifully preserved Schonhoff Windmill.
Fun fact: the Schonhoff Windmill was relocated to the park brick by brick and was once a working grain mill. It now stands proudly as a centerpiece of Wamego’s rich history and commitment to preserving its heritage.
Why the Wamego Tulip Festival is Worth the Trip
This isn’t just another flower festival—it’s a full-blown experience that combines small-town hospitality, family fun, and a celebration of spring that rivals some of the best in the region. Whether you're a Manhattan, KS local looking for a quick weekend adventure, or you’re road-tripping in from nearby towns, Wamego makes it easy to fall in love with the season.
And did I mention the admission is free? Yep. You read that right. You can stroll through 10,000 tulips, explore artisan vendors, and enjoy hours of fun without spending a dime to enter.
Tips for Attending the Wamego Tulip Festival
If it’s your first time visiting the festival, here are a few helpful tips:
- Arrive early to snag good parking and beat the crowds (especially on Saturday).
- Bring cash—some vendors do take cards, but it’s always good to have a few bills on hand.
- Don’t forget your camera or phone charger—between the tulips and Totos, you’ll be snapping photos nonstop.
- Wear comfy shoes. There’s a lot to see, and you’ll want to explore both the park and downtown.
- Come hungry. Trust me.
Make It a Full Day of Fun
It’s easy to make a full day of your visit to the Wamego Tulip Festival. After enjoying the festivities, grab lunch downtown, explore more of the city, and if you’re up for a longer stay, check out Wamego’s walking trails or nearby attractions. This is small-town Kansas at its absolute best—welcoming, beautiful, and blooming with energy.
For the most up-to-date schedule and details, follow the Wamego Tulip Festival page on social media and keep tabs on any weather updates or special event highlights.
There are few things that spark as much joy as a sunny day surrounded by flowers, friendly faces, and festival food. Whether you’re chasing tulip fields, looking for a fun family day, or just need an excuse to enjoy some time outdoors, the Wamego Tulip Festival checks all the boxes.
I’ll be there, camera in hand and probably a funnel cake in the other—so if you see me, come say hi!
And if you love posts like this and want more updates on fun things happening in the area, make sure to follow me here and on social media for all things Manhattan, KS and beyond!
