LISSE, The Netherlands, Feb. 9, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Winter may still have the country firmly in its icy grip, but Keukenhof is busy preparing for spring. In 2006, the world's most beautiful springtime park will be open from March 23 until May 9.
Some seven million bulbs will be blooming in the 80-acre park, in addition a series of breathtaking indoor exhibitions will be organized. Year after year, Keukenhof inspires nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts who flock to see the latest in garden trends, with demonstrations, the park's Japanese and English landscape gardens, century-old trees, ponds and works of art. Children can follow the exciting 'Bollebozen Route' (an educational adventure trail that teaches them about flower bulbs), explore a maze, visit the petting zoo, and enjoy the playground. Once again, the Keukenhof's program of events is chock-full of activities for the coming season.
Rembrandt in Bloom
In anticipation of Rembrandt's 400th birthday, 20 children from Leiden planted bulbs in autumn of 2005 to recreate one of the famous painter's self-portraits. The 60,000 bulbs will bloom in April 2006, forming a huge 'painting' of 33 x 46 feet.
April 7 - 9: Summer Bulb Weekend
Spring is the right season for planting summer bulbs. During the Summer Bulb Weekend at Keukenhof, visitors will have the opportunity not only to purchase specially priced summer bulbs, but also to attend presentations and demonstrations. Experts from gardening association and magazine "Groei & Bloei" (Growth & Bloom) will be on hand to give free guided tours in the park.
April 17: Easter Parade
How many different kinds of hats are there? Outrageous or modest, serious or comical, charming or sassy... All and more will be on display during the annual Easter Parade that Keukenhof will host on the day after Easter. Participants in this hat contest and parade show off their handmade creations, which makes for a cheerful procession with a sea of blooming bulbs forming an equally colorful backdrop.
April 17 and May 14: Early Birds
On April 17, the park will open at 7 a.m. for early birds, to experience how a day at Keukenhof begins in sheer tranquility. The sun rises, the birds begin to sing, the flowers open: it's a feast for the senses. And the perfect opportunity for undisturbed filming and taking pictures.
Creative Workshops
Keukenhof organizes a wide range of creative workshops for groups. Led by talented flower specialists and artists, participants can learn how to make springtime decorations using spring flowers, or enjoy painting or photography. To make the day complete, groups can choose to have lunch, an afternoon tea or picnic, along with a guided tour in the park.
And much, much more...
Keukenhof has even more to offer, including seven new inspirational gardens, musical performances in the outdoor theater, the largest indoor lily exhibit in the world, a unique collection of bronze statues, 10 miles of paths, art exhibitions, restaurants, gift shops... Visit Keukenhof and be inspired. Come experience springtime!
For more information on Holland, see www.holland.com.