Every spring, the Southern Highlands town of Bowral carpets Corbett Gardens with more than 75,000 tulips and becomes a pilgrimage for garden lovers and photographers. Tulip Time is one of the oldest floral festivals in the country, and the 2026 edition — themed “Together We Bloom” — runs from 11 September to 5 October 2026.
What to expect
The mass-planted beds change colour week to week as different varieties open, so timing matters — the middle fortnight is usually peak bloom. Beyond the gardens there are craft and food markets, garden workshops, and concerts under the big elm trees, spilling into Bowral’s cafes and the wider Southern Highlands.
Planning your visit
Gates open 9:30am–4:30pm daily (extended over the October long weekend). Entry is ticketed — around $18.50 online, children under 12 free — and the small town fills fast, so arrive early or visit midweek. Pair it with Kangaroo Valley down the mountain, and see more photography spots.
