2008 Ottawa Tulip Festival

May 2 to 19, 2008

The tulip, or Lale as it is known in Turkey, once adorned the Ottoman gardens, was prominently featured in their art, and filled the pages of many history books. Lale's (pronounced la-legh) secret powers brought many countries together in friendship. Again this year, Lale was celebrated by numerous visitors to the festival organized in her honour.

At the festival, the Turkish Pavilion presented the history of the tulip, as well as a taste of Turkish culture. Visitors had the chance to shop in the Turkish Bazaar.

Turkish coffee was served and fortunes told, and for the real enthusiasts, hands-on workshops on Turkish coffee-making was held in the Turkish Cafe. Turkish delight, baklava were among the delicacies offered in the Cafe.

Sunday, May 4th
11:00: Anatolian Folk Dancers
11:30 Turkish Folk Music Ensemble
12:00 Anatolian Folk Dancers
12:30 Turkish Folklore Dancers of Ottawa