Photo by Bre McGee
Did you know that Minneapolis’ Lakewood Cemetery was founded as a “garden cemetery” back in 1871? The peaceful landscape north of Lake Harriet has always been committed to preserving nature and beautifying the space; it’s even accredited as a Level 2 arboretum (the only one in Minneapolis).
Since the 1950s, the cemetery’s grounds team has often planted tulip bulbs in the fall, leading to a burst of color in April and May. But over the past few years, during construction of the Lakewood welcome center, the tulip tradition was put on hold.
This week, the tulips are back—and back in a big way. Last fall, the grounds team undertook an ambitious seasonal planting, placing an impressive 50,000 tulip bulbs near the entrance and chapel. “We are excited to welcome the community to celebrate spring with a stroll through our more than 50,000 tulips,” says Julia Gillis, Lakewood’s director of marketing and outreach.
“While there are a number of tulips in bloom right now, the varieties we selected will bloom at different times through late April and early May,” Gillis adds. “Inclement weather could impact this, so we encourage anyone who wants to see them to plan their visit soon.”
Courtesy of Lakewood Cemetery
Although guests can enjoy the tulips any time the cemetery is open to the public (8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily), Lakewood is marking the season with some special events for Tulip Week, too:
Tea with Tulips
Monday, May 4, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Take an evening stroll through the tulip beds, sample tea and treats, and try a printmaking project with artist Costanza Carballo.
Discover Lakewood Walking Tour
Wednesday, May 6, 5 p.m.
Enjoy a guided exploration of the cemetery’s historic monuments, architecture, and 4,000 trees.
Mother’s Day Mini Floral Memorials
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Gather with community members to create small bouquets and write tributes for mothers who have passed.
Doors Open Minneapolis
Sunday, May 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Get rare access to the cemetery’s National Historic Register Byzantine Chapel, which features 10 million mosaic tiles.
Lakewood Cemetery, 3600 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis; lakewoodcemetery.org
