Every year, from mid-April for a couple of weeks, the town of Castiglione del Lago bursts into life with its annual Tulip Festival. This long-standing tradition marks the arrival of spring and fills the main piazza with colourful displays, lively music, and a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of floral decorations, street performances, and market stalls showcasing local delicacies and crafts.
A Tradition Rooted in History
Even before the festival began, Castiglione del Lago had a deep connection with tulips. In 1936, local landowner Remo Zenobi purchased a large estate and enlisted Florentine landscape architect Pietro Porcinai to design the gardens. Porcinai encouraged Zenobi to grow tulips on his farm, called Macchiatonda, and it soon became one of the largest nurseries in central Italy. Though World War II disrupted its success, the festival remains a tribute to the region’s tulip-growing past. The first official Tulip Festival was held in 1956.
Festival Highlights
One of the most anticipated parts of the festival is the spectacular floral displays. The historic streets and squares are decorated with a vibrant mix of tulips, transforming the town into a sea of colour.
Another highlight is the float parade, where elaborately designed floats covered in tulip petals make their way through the streets. Volunteers from the community work hard to create these stunning floats, each representing a different theme, ranging from cinema and music to historical events and natural beauty. The parade is accompanied by musical bands, folk groups, and historical processions, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Wine and Culinary Experiences
Wine lovers will enjoy the Trasimeno Rosé Festival, a special event celebrating the region’s finest rosé wines. The Consorzio di Tutela Vini Trasimeno organises tastings and presentations, highlighting the versatility of local rosé, particularly those made from the native Trasimeno Gamay grape. Visitors can sample wines at the Terrazza del Rosé, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Trasimeno, or enjoy a glass alongside traditional dishes at the festival’s Taverna.
Food is an essential part of the festival, with local taverns and food stalls offering a variety of regional dishes. Many of the recipes have been passed down through generations and feature fresh ingredients sourced from the lake and surrounding countryside. Visitors can indulge in fresh pasta, grilled meats, and traditional pastries, experiencing the authentic flavours of Umbria.
Activities for Families
The festival offers plenty of activities for families, ensuring that children have just as much fun as the adults. Attractions include inflatable play areas and a Ferris wheel, providing a breathtaking view of Lake Trasimeno. The festival also features street performers, artisan markets, and hands-on workshops, making it an event that brings the whole community together.
Gardens and Flower Markets
For those who love flowers, the Giardino dei Tulipani and Fiera del Fiore are must-visit spots. These exhibitions showcase a wide variety of tulips and other seasonal blooms, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and scents of spring. Whether you’re looking to admire the floral arrangements or purchase plants for your own garden, these spaces celebrate the beauty and diversity of nature.
The Spring Tulip Festival in Castiglione del Lago is a true celebration of nature, history, and community. From its humble beginnings to its status as one of Umbria’s most beloved events, it remains a highlight of the spring season, bringing people together to welcome the warmer months in a truly special way.
Below is a video showcasing the 2023 Tulip Festival:
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