While it wasn’t record breaking like 2017, Tulip Time this year was among the highest attended in recent memory.

Pella Historical Society Executive Director Valerie Van Kooten tells KNIA/KRLS News that despite severe weather cancelling events Thursday night, they estimate 175,000 people attended the festival May 3rd through the 5th, and Friday ranks among the busiest they’ve ever had.

Van Kooten says Tulip Time is a crucial piece in funding activities and exhibits at Pella Historical Society and Museums. She’s thankful to the staff at Pella Historical and all of the volunteers who contribute to the annual celebration.

“It’s amazing–the volunteers who were here, some of them coming in a four in the morning…people who stayed late, our staff worked tirelessly that week, including the Steering Committee,” she says. “It really does take a village to put on Tulip Time.”