LISSE, The Netherlands, Dec. 10, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The flower version of one of America's most recognized national monuments and a symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty, signifies the theme the world-famous international flower exhibition Keukenhof in Lisse has chosen for its anniversary year 2009: "USA, New Amsterdam - New York, 400," building on the strong ties between the two countries and the 400th year anniversary of the establishment of New Amsterdam (New York).
According to general manager Mr. Piet de Vries, Keukenhof aims to emphasize the ties between the Netherlands and the United States, as well as to pay tribute to its many American guests. "We enjoy a vast interest of visitors from the United States. The number varies, but it counts for some 11% percent of the approx. 840,000 people we welcome every year."
Four centuries ago, in 1609, Henry Hudson stepped ashore on what is now Manhattan on behalf of the "Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie," the Dutch East India Company, a seafaring company ruling the oceans back then. Henry Hudson established New Amsterdam, which was later re-named into New York, making the Netherlands the founding father of one of the most important metropolitan areas in the world.
The first planting of bulbs for the flower version of the Statue of Liberty was performed on October 16th, 2008 at Keukenhof by Mr. Kenneth Roy, Cultural Officer for the USA in the Netherlands. His actions will eventually result in a blooming spectacular of 23 x 15 meters (approx. 82 x 49 ft), which required the planting of more than 50,000 flower bulbs. Simultaneously this past October 16th, the kick-off for the celebration of "400 Years New York - The Netherlands 1609-2009" took place in Manhattan. Those same numbers of tulip bulbs, 50,000 of them, were planted in Central Park, a donation of the Netherlands American Community Trust, the International Flower Bulbs Centre IBC and Keukenhof to the city of Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
At Keukenhof, an amazing American themed route starts with the Hudson River at the park's entrance. From there a swaying path of blue grape flowers illustrates the two streams of New York and leads the visitors along recognizable American phenomena such as Brooklyn, Harlem and Wall Street. A walk of fame depicts, among others, current First Lady Laura Bush, as well as famed destinations such as Hollywood, Manhattan, Washington and Portland in flowers. The American Dream inspires one of the gardens in which Uncle William, a returning emigrant, plays the major role.
Keukenhof planted some seven million flower bulbs. This year the park will be open from March 19th until May 21st, covering an area of 32 hectares (approx. 79 acres), full of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and all other spring bulbs. The floral displays in the park and the unique flower shows in the various pavilions are a glorious visual feast. Plus, in the midst of this magnificent spectacle of color, you will find exquisite works of art.
It makes Keukenhof an unforgettable experience for people of all ages. Over time, Keukenhof has grown into one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands and is famous worldwide. Many visitors from all continents gain inspiration while relaxing in the colorful surroundings, with no less than 15 kilometers (approx. 9.3 miles) of walking trails. Keukenhof is an exceptional experience and guarantees the most fabulous photos and ultimate spring feeling! Visit: www.keukenhof.nl.