Listen On …
The Windmill Island Gardens really is the face of Holland, Michigan. Between maintaining the centuries-old windmill to ensuring that the toilets and other plants always look pristine is the challenge of Matt Helmus and his team.
In this episode, we talk about:
- The Different Events that Take Place in the Windmill Island Gardens
- Managing the Pressure and Expectations of the Windmill Island Gardens with Visitors
- Working with the Dutch in the Netherlands to Maintain The Proper Dutch Heritage
- The 3 Dutch Treasures
Links:
Listen to the Interview with Holland Mayor Nathan Bocks
Windmill Island Garden is a delightful destination located in Holland, Michigan. This place is a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The garden’s serene environment is enhanced by the iconic windmill that stands tall in the middle, giving visitors a taste of Dutch culture and traditions.
History of Windmill Island Garden:
Windmill Island Garden has a rich history. The city founders decided in the 1950’s to create a spot where people could gather and take in the heritage that the Dutch descendants still hold onto. In 1964, the city applied for and was granted special permission to remove a windmill from the Netherlands. The 250 year old windmill was brought over from the Netherlands and reassembled on Windmill Island Garden. Today, De Zwaan is one of the only authentic Dutch windmills in the United States that grinds grain into flour.
Facts about Windmill Island Garden:
Windmill Island Garden is not only home to the iconic windmill but also boasts other exciting features that make it a must-visit destination in Holland, Michigan. The island is spread over 36 acres of land and is home to beautiful gardens, a carousel, a Dutch carousel organ, and a playground. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the island or rent a bike to explore the grounds. The gardens showcase a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees that change with each season, providing visitors with a unique experience all year round.
Festivals and Events at Windmill Island Garden:
Windmill Island Garden hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, making it a lively and entertaining destination. The Tulip Time Festival, held in May, is one of the most popular events at the garden. During this festival, visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of more than 100,000 tulips in bloom. The festival also features parades, Dutch dancing, and authentic Dutch food. Another exciting event is the Pumpkin Walk, held in October. During this event, the gardens are transformed into a spooky Halloween wonderland, complete with thousands of pumpkins and a spooky light show. The island also hosts music concerts, art exhibitions, and other events throughout the year.
Summary:
Windmill Island Garden is a hidden gem in Holland, Michigan, that offers visitors a glimpse into Dutch culture and heritage. The iconic windmill, De Zwaan, is a testament to the island’s rich history and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the Dutch way of life. The gardens are a treat for nature lovers and showcase a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees that change with each season. Windmill Island Garden is also home to a carousel, a Dutch carousel organ, and a playground, making it an excellent destination for families. The island hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Tulip Time Festival and the Pumpkin Walk. With so much to see and do, Windmill Island Garden is a must-visit destination in Holland, Michigan.
In conclusion, Windmill Island Garden is an enchanting destination that offers visitors a unique experience. The garden’s rich history, beautiful surroundings, and exciting events make it a must-visit destination in Holland, Michigan. Whether you are interested in learning about Dutch culture and heritage or simply want to spend a relaxing day in nature, Windmill Island Garden is the perfect place to visit. So, pack your bags and head to Holland, Michigan, to explore this beautiful island and all it has to offer.
