Nothing says spring on Long Island quite like the return of the Tulip Festival at Waterdrinker Family Farm in Manorville—a riot of color, culture, and community that draws thousands of visitors each year.
This year’s festival is bigger and brighter than ever, with millions of tulips bursting into bloom across sprawling fields that look like a scene from a Dutch postcard. From brilliant reds and vibrant yellows to delicate pastels, the tulip fields offer a mesmerizing visual experience that has quickly become one of the region’s most beloved spring traditions.
“This is the best time of year to shake off winter and experience something magical with your family,” the farm boasts. “People come from all over to walk among the flowers, take pictures, and just enjoy being outside again.”
But the tulips are just the beginning. The festival is a full-fledged family destination featuring live music, local food trucks, and a wealth of hands-on activities for children—including jumbo jump pads, mini golf, and an obstacle course. In addition to the floral displays, visitors can explore the farm’s greenhouse, packed with thousands of spring blooms, or get to know barnyard residents like goats, pigs, and bunnies in the petting area.
Adding to the unique atmosphere is Little Amsterdam, a whimsical mini-village that celebrates the Dutch roots of tulip cultivation. Visitors can stroll through the quaint setup, learn about the history of tulips in the Netherlands, and take in exhibits that connect the flower to centuries of cultural and economic history—including a stop at the Tulip Tunnel Museum, where the 17th-century phenomenon known as “Tulip Mania” is brought to life in an engaging and interactive way. It’s educational without being dry—it really shows people how something as simple as a flower could once be more valuable than gold.
After exploring the fields and exhibits, many visitors unwind at the farm’s on-site Long Island Farm Brewery, where craft beer, cider, and wine are served with a view of the fields. A special Dutch Pilsner is on tap for the season, offering a festive toast to spring’s arrival.
And for those who want to take the experience home with them, Waterdrinker offers a U-Pick tulip section, where guests can select their own flowers for just $1 a stem—a popular feature for both home decorators and Instagram enthusiasts alike.
With sister locations in Manorville and Riverhead, Waterdrinker has fast become a seasonal staple for Long Islanders. And with the Tulip Festival’s vibrant blend of natural beauty, fun, and culture, it’s easy to see why.
“This isn’t just about flowers,” one visitor said. “It’s about getting outside, celebrating the season, and making memories.”
The festival is open daily—Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, go to www.water-drinker.com.