The tulips are blooming in Pella, and Tulip Time will be May 7, 8 and 9. There will be many activities at the Pella Opera House throughout the festival for you to enjoy. Entry to the Pella Opera House is only $5 per day or $10 for all three days. Passes may be purchased online, but the wristbands must be picked up in person at the Pella Opera House, 611 Franklin Street in Pella. Each morning begins at 10am with the presentation of The Reluctant Pioneer, the story of Maria Scholte. This year we welcome writer and presenter Carol Van Klompenburg to the role of Maria, wife of the founder of Pella. General admission tickets are available online, and a wristband is not required to attend the show. Beginning at 11am until 5:30pm, the Great Hall will be open. Enjoy the Historic Pella Photo display, the Pella Historical Museum’s Tulip Time Art Show, places to sit and rest, bring in your food and drink and eat and take advantage of the Opera House restrooms. At 1:30pm, the Martini Huis opens on the second floor on Thursday and Friday and is moved to the main floor Great Hall on Saturday. Specialty martinis are available as well as beer, wine, pop and water. On Saturday, the full bar in the Great Hall will also be open. 

The Neil Diamond Story starring William Florian will be performed at 4:30pm (or when the parade ends) on Thursday and Friday. This 90-minute show is $25 per ticket and a $5 wristband is not required to attend the show. William Florian weaves stories, songs, and humor from Neil Diamond’s early acoustic years honoring the life and achievements of this legendary minstrel. You will find yourself singing along as William performs Diamond’s most celebrated songs … Song Sung Blue, Sweet Caroline, Play Me, Cherry Cherry, Holly Holy, Solitary Man, and many more.

On Saturday, the 4:30pm show in the Historic Theatre is the Pella HS Choral Showcase. Join Samantha Robilliard and the Pella High School choir students for a music journey! Tickets are available below. Another special Saturday concert is TipToe thru the Tulips with Kent Jager on the Barton Theatre Organ. This special concert begins at 11 am. 

The next big event after Tulip Time is Opera House Outdoors on May 29! Mark your calendar for a great outdoor event on the 600 block of Franklin Street. See you soon!