Keukenhof opens 2026 season as sunny weather draws early crowds
Keukenhof opened its 2026 season on Thursday as sunny spring weather across the Netherlands is expected to draw large crowds. Hart van Nederland says there’s a line to enter this morning. The garden park is open daily for eight weeks, with the last date of the season being May 10.
Organizers said early spring blooms are already visible. Keukenhof said on Tuesday, “The first spring flowers are appearing: white and purple crocuses shine among the fresh greenery, fritillaries rise high above the borders, and even the first hyacinths are curiously poking their heads above the soil.”
In the space of eight weeks, Keukenhof demonstrates what the Dutch floricultural sector has to offer. The focus in the park is on the 7 million spring flowering bulbs; 100 flower bulb companies display their products, and 500 growers present an enormous variety of cut flowers and pot plants at more than 20 flower shows.
The opening comes as the Netherlands experiences clear and mild spring weather, according to weeronline. After a cool start Thursday morning, temperatures are expected to reach 15 to 17 degrees in many areas by the afternoon, with slightly cooler conditions along the northern coast. From March 19 through March 24, visitors can see the Tulip and Hyacinth Show indoors at the Oranje Nassau Pavilion, where Dutch growers display their finest blooms.
The day will remain dry and sunny, though high clouds are expected to gradually increase from the north. Winds will be light to moderate from the northeast, with stronger coastal winds keeping temperatures lower on the Wadden Islands and along the northern coast, where highs may reach only 9 to 12 degrees.
Conditions will remain dry into the evening, with increasing cloud cover and temperatures falling to between 6 and 10 degrees. Overnight lows are expected to drop to between 2 and 5 degrees, with possible mist or fog in the north and center.
Friday will begin with possible fog or low clouds, clearing quickly to a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures will reach about 10 degrees in the north and 13 to 15 degrees in the southern half. Weekend conditions are expected to remain dry and sunny, with highs between 9 and 14 degrees, though coastal areas, including parts of Noord-Holland, will remain cooler due to onshore winds.
Looking ahead, Monday is expected to remain dry with some sun before conditions turn more unsettled. From Tuesday onward, daily rain or showers are forecast, along with increasing wind. Temperatures are expected to fall, with daytime highs around 10 degrees and overnight lows near 4 degrees. Cooler days could bring a chance of wintry precipitation.
