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Tulip Time in Holland, Michigan



Bright and early Monday May 6th, 43 New Horizon members and friends set out to join in the 84th Annual Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan.

Our first performance was at The Commons at Evergreen, an activity, resource and service centre for adults age 50 and over. This centre, completely run by volunteers, has over 3500 members who can participate in games, musical groups and clubs as well as use the library, wood shop, heated pool and spa, fully equipped fitness centre and a variety of classes. After a baked ham luncheon, we enjoyed a fast paced song and dance musical show, Celebrate America.

We then travelled to Nellis' Dutch Village where we were able to watch Dutch dancing, see wooden shoes being carved, and Delft pottery being painted. Ron and Don were even able to participate in a Dutch folk dance.

That evening we enjoyed Fiddlefire, featuring the Panning family, an excellent concert of tap dancing, violin playing and singing.

At the Veldheer Tulip Farm, we were mesmerized by fields of colourful tulips (over 800 varieties) and even a paddock of buffalo. They raise over five and a half million tulip bulbs.

From our bleacher seats, we experienced the Volksparade. First, people of all ages, dressed in traditional Dutch costumes, scrubbed the streets. When the Governor of Michigan and the Mayor of Holland declared the streets fits for a parade, a talented group performed a traditional Dutch Dance and the parade began. Floats, Dutch dance groups and 23 bands klomped along the street in authentic costumes complete with wooden shoes.

That evening, we saw Chris Linn, who blended magic and comedy to create a performance for all groups.

On the way home, we visited the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. A narrated tram ride took us through the 132 acres of beautiful gardens of lovely spring flowers and flowering trees. There were also over 200 permanent sculptures created by artists such as Rodin, Picasso and Leonardo da Vinci.

Throughout this fascinating trip our group enjoyed great weather, delicious food and wonderful friendships. We would like to extend a special thank you to Vic and Linda, our Coach driver and Tour director.

Four days are also planned for our New Horizon's members – Big Band Legends at the new Dunfield Theatre in Cambridge, Weekend Comedy at St. Jacobs, a Blue Jays game and Decades at Deerhurst Inn.

New members always welcome to join our club. Call 519-925-5700 for more information.

 

 


Post date: 2013-05-30 12:02:47
Post date GMT: 2013-05-30 16:02:47
Post modified date: 2013-06-06 10:50:16
Post modified date GMT: 2013-06-06 14:50:16

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