antwerp Tulip Mania: Thousands Flock to Opera Square for Free Blooms

antwerp’s Opera Square was awash in color this afternoon as approximately 7,000 flower enthusiasts gathered to collect 100,000 free tulips. The event, which began at 3:00 PM, allowed attendees to select up to 15 tulips each.

This year marks the 7th annual tulip picking campaign organized by the Flemish Center for Agricultural and Fisheries Marketing (VLAM). The initiative aims to promote Belgian floriculture and bring a touch of spring to the city.

Charlotte Sieben, a presenter for MNM radio, served as the campaign’s godmother. She expressed her excitement, stating she planned to pick one tulip of every color available.

The event proved popular, with residents eager to take advantage of the possibility to brighten their homes with fresh, locally-sourced tulips. VLAM officials reported a smooth and successful distribution of the flowers.