Tulip Time Canceled

Due to the Corona Virus or COVID-19, Pella’s annual Tulip Time was canceled this year. 

2020 Tulip Queen Hanna Kendall said, “Although I’m really sad that we don’t get a Tulip Time this year, I understand that the decision was made for the health of the community.” 

The annual festival has been celebrating and exploring Dutch culture ever since 1935 and has only been canceled once in 1946 because of World War 2, which was 74 years ago. 

On March 15, the Center for Disease Control issued a directive to cancel or postpone gatherings of more than 50 people.  The executive committee of the Tulip Time’s Board of Directors announced that they would cancel Tulip Time on March 16.

“As a representative of our town, I want what’s best for it, and I know that canceling the festival ensures that more people will stay healthy,” said Kendall. 

However, although Kendall understands, it was still a bitter disappointment.

“I’m just really heartbroken for the court who have put so much work into this,” said Kendall. “We’ve gone in front of the town for the Queen’s announcement party, spent hours memorizing our program and songs, and gone to countless fittings to prepare for Tulip Time, and it’s disappointing to feel like no one will get to fully appreciate the work we, and everyone else who has blessed us in this process, have done.” 

Kendall looks forward to the future.

“Even though we’re sad, we’re thankful for the opportunities we’ve already gotten,” said Kendall.  “I’m personally excited to continue to build a bond with the court moving forward with our duties, no matter where they may be.”