BEST:

-PARADES. After two years of absence, daily parades are returning for this year’s festival. Classic floats such as the Teacup Float and the Pella Corporation Treehouse will be on display alongside area marching bands, including our own Pella Marching Dutch.

-SHORT SCHOOL DAYS. Since many students volunteer throughout the festival, attendance at school is sparse.

“I like having easy days the week of the festival,” explains sophomore Faith Vandenberg. “You experience all the fun of Tulip Time without missing a ton of schoolwork.” Since many students volunteer throughout the festival, attendance at school is sparse.

-FOOD.  Poffertjes are a beloved Dutch treat, but several others have emerged in recent years. Popular treats include Dutch Ribbons, the Triple Threat, Dutch Taco, and more.

WORST:

-CROWDS. Pella’s population increases by tenfold during the festival, which makes many student drivers annoyed. 

“It’s so annoying trying to drive or walk around during Tulip Time,” says sophomore Crista Chenoweth. “You can barely move half of the time!”

PARKING. Streets are often lined with cars from all over the country. However, the festival often brings the worst drivers in the country to our small town streets. 

NO CELL SERVICE. Just like everything else during the festival, this problem comes from the influx of people during the festival. “It’s so hard to make plans with friends when I can’t use my phone,” complains sophomore Levi Hansen. “It’d be easier without so many tourists!”