Step Into Spring at the Southern Highlands Tulip Time Festival

Corbett Gardens in Bowral bursts into bloom this spring as the Tulip Time Festival takes over from 12 September to 6 October 2025.

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Winter is officially behind us, and the Southern Highlands is rolling out the welcome mat in the brightest way possible with more than 80,000 tulips blooming all at once. That’s the magic of the Tulip Time Festival, just 90 minutes from Sydney, and trust us, it’s not your average flower festival.

Why Everyone Loves Tulip Time

Tulip Time has been charming visitors for 65 years, and once you wander into Corbett Gardens in Bowral, you’ll get it. Rows upon rows of tulips in full technicolour, locals serving up country hospitality, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and just enjoy the moment. Whether you’re here with the kids, escaping for a romantic weekend, or simply chasing your next reel-worthy shot—Tulip Time delivers.

After Dark, It Gets Even Better

Sure, the gardens are beautiful by day, but when the sun goes down, Tulips After Dark turns up the magic. On two big weekends in September, the gardens glow under the lights with live music, entertainment, and a relaxed night-out vibe. From there, follow the painted tulip trail to The Secret Garden at The Mill, where you’ll find food trucks, a buzzing bar, and surprise performances. It’s the perfect spot for date night or catching up with mates.

Foodies, this one’s for you

Tulip Time isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you taste. The Blooming Weekend events are a foodie’s dream. Enjoy the Beekeepers Long Lunch – a feast with honey as the star, sunset cocktails at a Retford Park, and high teas that look almost too pretty to eat. And don’t even think about leaving without trying the famous CWA scones—they’re legendary for a reason.

Make a Weekend of It

If you’re planning to head down over the October Long Weekend, prepare yourself—the Highlands really come alive. Explore Horizontal Festival food, wine, music, and celebrity chefs (yes, oysters and bubbles included). Or check out Babe’s Country Fair for the kids (and the young at heart), or for the fitness fanatics, participate it the Bradman Dash. Do you want double the flowers, double the joy? Discover the blooming, brilliant Waratah Festival. Basically, it’s the biggest weekend of the year. The Festivities run daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm, with extended hours until 6pm on Saturdays.

So what are you waiting for? See the Corbett Gardens in Bowral come to life with the Tulip Time Festival, starting on 12 September and running until 6 October 2025. Get your tickets now via Ticketmaster.com.au