The Orange City Tulip Festival is this weekend, May 16th, 17th & 18th. Looks like it could be a photogenic event, aside from enjoyable. They have two parades each day (2pm & 6pm) with a ceremonial dutch street cleaning beforehand. There will also be a carnival rides, and a tractor show. The full schedule can be found at: www.octulipfestival.com

Most of the event is free except the quilt show, Dutch dozen dance show, and the near by museums. The parades and street cleaning are free but reserved seats can be purchased for $5 online or at the event. There will be a shuttle running between the parking areas to the main attractions at $5 per day. Also, There is a value book that can be purchased.

Orange City is about 50 min north of Sioux City off Highway 60. Early weather is showing Friday might be the best day, mostly sunny at 85° and the weather deteriorating over the course of the weekend. Unfortunately I won't be able to attend on Friday, but please feel free to go.

If people are interested in carpooling the Wallmart on Floyd Blvd would be a good place to meet. As for a meet up location in Orange City, The Water pump at the center of Windmill square is easy to find and central to the activities.

By Teresa Hebert [email protected]