Beaming with bulbs: San Francisco Tulip Day draws crowds
Around 40,000 people waited to receive free tulips, with some arriving as early as 5 a.m. Marking the sixth year of this tradition, various San Francisco public figures like District Attorney Brooke Jenkins began their speeches thanking their Dutch co-organizers around noon. Head of Communications for the San Francisco Netherlands Consulate Sietze Vermeulen said the tulips symbolized Dutch-American relations.
“The bulbs come from the Netherlands, but they grow here in California,” Vermeulen said. “It’s a great example of collaboration between two nations, and the beautiful flowers and events are the result of it.”
After waiting in line for a reported average of two to three hours, event attendees had five minutes to select their eight tulips. To ensure they received flowers, many participants gathered early in the morning and brought collapsible chairs to ease the wait. Although some spectators found the wait tiring, Amy Handler, a first time visitor to Tulip Day, said she enjoyed the atmosphere.
“It’s a whole experience, and I like seeing everybody come out together and get some free flowers,” Amy said. “I’m excited to see what all the hype is about, and it always looks so pretty when people post it on social media. Everyone’s just in really happy spirits despite the really long lines.”
Not only do the tulips brighten the community, but they also help revitalize the struggling Union Square economy. The once-popular shopping district steeply declined in recent years, with many businesses shuttering their doors in the post-pandemic downturn. Last month, Macy’s announced plans to close its flagship store in the square. Tulip Day increases foot traffic in the area, potentially offsetting these effects.
“Especially now, Union Square is having some challenges, but Tulip Day is here,” Vermeulen said. “People come for Tulip Day, and they go shopping and have some nice food. That’s why it’s important that this event is here, to show people that Union Square is a great place to be.”
Another spectator, Brooke, emphasized the joy the tulips bring the community, especially after recent rainy weather. This was her second year attending the event.
“My favorite part was seeing all my friends’ bouquets and all the people with their friends,” Brooke said. “It was really nice, just a happy moment. Some of the weather has been sad lately, but today was nice.”
