Spring is about to put on one of its biggest displays in the state, with tens of thousands of tulips preparing to take over the heart of Bowral. Returning this weekend, the Southern Highlands‘ famed Tulip Time is one of Australia’s oldest flower festivals and has been a fixture on the region’s calendar for more than 60 years. The main attraction is Corbett Gardens, home to an astonishing 80,000 hand-planted tulips and annuals that create sprawling floral displays in almost every colour imaginable. But there’s plenty happening beyond the blooms, with live music, market stalls, art and creative workshops joining the program, while even more tulips can be found across the surrounding towns and villages. Here’s what to expect from Tulip Time 2026.
What to see at Tulip Time: Tulips, markets and live music
The major highlight of the event is Corbett Gardens, with months of planting culminating in dense beds of tulips and annuals spread throughout the park. Visitors can follow the garden paths through the displays, with different varieties, colours and planting patterns to discover.
The festival also extends beyond the garden beds. Market stalls will be set up throughout the event, alongside live music and an art exhibition, while a program of floral-inspired workshops offers a more hands-on way to get involved. Food and drink vendors will also be stationed on site, so it’s easy to spend a few hours in the gardens rather than simply stopping by to enjoy the flowers.
Beyond the main display at Corbett Gardens, more tulips can be found elsewhere across the Southern Highlands. The annual Tulip Trail includes displays at the Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre in Mittagong and Leighton Gardens in Moss Vale, while a number of private gardens around the region also feature tulips during the festival period. There are several other events scheduled alongside Tulip Time. The Blooming Weekend program includes flower-themed high teas, country markets and other special events across the Southern Highlands. Nearby Robertson will host the Robertson Babe Country Fair, while Horizontal Festival focuses on the region’s food and wine alongside live music and art.
Key information
- What: Tulip Time 2026
- Where: Corbett Gardens, Bendooley Street, Bowral
- When: Friday, September 11 to Monday, October 5, 2026
- Opening hours: 9.30am–4.30pm daily, with last entry at 4pm. On October 2–4, the gardens stay open until 5.30pm, with last entry at 5pm.
- Tickets: Adults $18.50 online or $20 at the gate; concession $12.50 online/$13.50 gate; ages 13–17 $13 online/$13.50 gate; children under 12 enter free
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased through the official Tulip Time website.
Getting there
Corbett Gardens is around a 1.5-hour drive from Sydney, although visitors should allow extra time during busy festival periods. There is no dedicated event parking, with parking available in surrounding streets, at Merrigang Street and near Bowral Station. Public transport is a convenient alternative, with direct trains running from Sydney to Bowral Station, just a 6-minute walk from Corbett Gardens. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
