Just as the last of the cherry blossom petals fall to the ground in Washington DC, spring continues in Virginia at Burnside Farms. Every year thousands of people visit the family-run farm for their nearly month-long Festival of Spring. What started as just a little flower farm sitting outside of a housing development along a busy highway has turned into a nearly 100 acre destination where people can enjoy, photograph, and pick as many tulips as they want.
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Every fall, Burnside Farms plants over 150 varieties of tulips imported from Holland (2 million bulbs in all), so as you walk among the rows and rows of bright blooms you truly feel like you’ve been transported to the Netherlands, minus the cost of airfare and hassle of planning an overseas trip. So until I can cross visiting the Keukenhof botanical garden off my bucket list, I’ll keep visiting Burnside Farms.
Once you enter during your timed ticket window, you are permitted to stay as long as you like, which is great for me because there are endless photo opportunities jumping out at every turn, providing chances for stunning macro shots and beautiful wide angle views. Every time I visit I easily spend a couple of hours here. My favorite time of day to visit is late in the afternoon until dusk.
Please note that all of these photos have been taken during previous tulip seasons. For current field conditions visit Burnside Farms daily field report.
WhileI I mostly concentrate on photographing the tulips every time I visit, there is actually quite a lot to do on the farm. There is a whole section for children’s activities near the barn, as well as food trucks on the weekends. You are also welcome to pack your own picnic and enjoy it on one of the many picnic tables they provide. There is also a cute little gift shop selling local products, flower vases and whatnot.
Practical Information for visiting Burnside Farms Festival of Spring
- Address: 11008 Kettle Run Rd, Nokesville, VA 20181
- Website: https://www.burnsidefarms.com/
- 2024 Season: weather permitting, the Festival of Spring will run from March 24 through April 14, 2024.
- Burnside Farms is very active on their Facebook and Instagram accounts, so I highly suggest you follow them to keep up to date with all major announcements.
- As with all pick-your-own places, please refrain from picking or clipping what you don’t plan to purchase. That’s hard work and potential profit you’re leaving on the ground.
- Dogs are not allowed on the property unless it is for a special event.
Have you ever visited Burnside Farms Festival of Spring? What did you think? I’d love to know! Share your experiences in the comments!
