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Field Journal: Tulips at Twilight

Andrea LaRayne Etzel
9 hours ago
3 min read

Wander the illuminated paths and view stunning light displays at Ward Meade Botanical Garden's signature spring event.

Illuminated giant flowers in vivid pink and yellow line a path in a park at night, creating a vibrant and whimsical atmosphere. — *Lit paths and colorful displays lead visitors through Tulips at Twilight in the gardens at Ward Meade Park. (Andrea LaRayne Etzel)*

What is Tulips at Twilight?

Tulips in Topeka is a time many look forward to. It's the welcome of spring, when the jewel-colored blooms are at their peak. Throughout the city, gardens are filled with thousands of flowers. At Ward Meade Park, along with tulips, they've added larger-than-life light displays and illuminated paths and flower beds. Making the garden sparkle after the sun has gone down.

Pathway in a garden lit with colorful lights. Trees glow purple and red, flowers line the path, creating a magical, lively atmosphere. — A panoramic view of the illuminated paths and displays around the garden. (Andrea LaRayne Etzel)

Where is Tulips at Twilight?

Ward Meade Park, part of Old Prairie Town, is one of the oldest sections of Topeka. Just east of the Potwin neighborhood, this site was settled in the 1850s by Anthony Ward. The family lived at the location for several generations. Tulips at Twilight is set within a 2.5-acre botanical garden behind the mansion, the former home to the Wards and Meades families.

I can't help but be joyful surrounded by tulips.

When is Tulips at Twilight?

This event is held within the larger city-wide "Tulip Time Festival" that Topeka hosts every year. The festival typically runs between mid-March and late-April. Winter weather determines whether the tulips will bloom earlier or later. Also, the amount of snow or rain. Once Shawnee County Parks and Rec determines the estimated blooming period, it will announce the event dates on its website and social media around March.

Giant red tulip sculptures in a garden with people around, cloudy sky, and quaint houses in the background create a whimsical scene. — *The historic fountain is the centerpiece and popular photo backdrop of Tulips at Twilight. (Andrea LaRayne Etzel)*

What's there to do?

Along with viewing the gardens, visitors can wander Old Prairie Town. Make sure to pop into the Potwin General Store and grab a sweet treat. On Fridays and Saturdays, the site hosts live music performances.

What to Know Before You Go

People on a lit bridge in a colorful garden at dusk. Decorative glowing flowers and string lights create a festive, magical atmosphere. — *Guests visit the Koi pond in the Asian Garden, (Andrea LaRayne Etzel)*

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions:

IS TULIPS AT TWILIGHT FREE?

No, there is an admission. Adults are $7, children (over 5 years old) and seniors are $5, and children five and under are free.

IS THERE PARKING?

Yes, there is a free parking lot at the west entrance (Clay Street) of Old Prairie Town. The gate entrance on Fillmore and parking near the mansion (east of Old Prairie Town) is closed. If the parking lot is full, there is residential street parking nearby.