Best Garden & Flower Festivals in Southern Delaware

As the chill of winter fades, Southern Delaware bursts into vibrant color with blooming gardens and seasonal festivals that celebrate the arrival of spring. From tulip-filled parks to garden tours steeped in history, this region offers can’t-miss experiences for flower lovers and festival-goers alike.

Thanks to its coastal location and mild seasonal climate, Southern Delaware becomes a true paradise in the springtime. The area comes alive with bursts of tulips, daffodils, and blossoming trees, making it a favorite destination for photographers, gardeners, and families looking to reconnect with nature.

Read on to discover the top spring festivals and blooming garden events happening this season across Southern Delaware.

16th Annual Lewes Tulip Celebration

Two young children admire colorful tulips in a large wooden planter with a sign reading

From April 1–20, over 31,000 tulips and 5,000 spring bulbs transform Lewes into a springtime wonderland. The plantings can be found at the Lewes Chamber of Commerce’s Visitor Center, located in the historic Fisher-Martin House at Zwaanendael Park.

Visitor Center hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Helpful tip: Maps of tulip locations are available at the Visitor Center and in brochure boxes throughout the historic commercial district.
Visit Event Website | More Info

Lewes Historical Society “History in Bloom Tour”

Charming historic buildings surrounded by blooming yellow daffodils, pink flowers, and blossoming trees on a sunny spring day.

Experience history and horticulture on this guided tour of historic Lewes gardens. Tours will be held Saturday, April 12, and Sunday, April 13, starting from the Historic Campus at 110 Shipcarpenter Street, Lewes, DE.

Cost: $10
Includes: Historic insights and garden beauty
Visit Event Website | More Info

Delaware Botanic Gardens Spring Bulb Tour

Join members of the horticulture staff for a meadow and folly flowering bulb tour at 2 PM on March 13, March 28, April 4, and April 18. The Delaware Botanic Gardens feature thousands of blooming bulbs across their world-renowned Piet Oudolf-designed meadow.

Entry fee: $15 for guests; free for members
Visit Delaware Botanic Gardens

Spring Planter Demonstration

Held at Delaware Botanic Gardens on April 10 and May 29 at 11:30 a.m., this hands-on demonstration teaches tips and tricks for creating your own seasonal planter.

Free for all attendees: Members, non-members, and volunteers are welcome

Entry Fee: $15

Visit Delaware Botanic Gardens

2025 Lewes Garden Tour

Lush garden with colorful flowers, a wooden arbor, and a path leading to a white house with a large porch.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 21st, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the 34th Annual Lewes Garden Tour. In addition to private garden tours, the event features a Garden Market in Zwaanendael Park with vendors selling garden-themed items.

Tickets available in May at the Lewes Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Center
Event Info

The Bug & Bud Festival

Colorful logo for the Bug & Bud Spring Festival, featuring bold, playful lettering and a graphic of a ladybug and leaf.

Celebrate two of Milford’s most beloved icons: the ladybug and nature. The Bug & Bud Festival also marks Arbor Day and Milford’s designation as a USA Tree City.

Date: April 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Event Info

Experience the Blooming Season in Southern Delaware

From tulip trails to hands-on planting events, spring in Southern Delaware is full of color and charm. Whether you’re strolling through historic gardens or picking up tips for your own planter, these festivals celebrate the best of the season.

Plan your spring getaway and soak in the floral magic of Southern Delaware!