Ready for a spring fling? With the economy in the dumpster most families have a tight grip on their budgets. However, this doesn’t mean you have to skip out on a much-needed spring break. Rather than jet off to an overpriced resort, consider sticking closer to home and visiting one of the dozens of unique spring festivals being offered from coast-to-coast, most of which are free or exceedingly affordable:
WASHINGTON
Who says you have to fly thousands of miles to view flowering tulips this spring? Instead of jetting off to the Netherlands, consider traveling to Skagit Valley, Washington. Located between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., the Skagit Valley is one of the nation’s leading producers of tulip bulbs. As such, it serves as the hub for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which features thousands of flowering tulips in a rainbow of shades arrayed in rows that stretch to the horizon. The festival also includes family-friendly events such as a parade, a fun run and art shows. This year the festival runs from April 1-30.
NORTH CAROLINA
If you are looking for free fun and fresh air, then head to Wilmington, and the 62nd annual North Carolina Azalea Festival. The big event kicks off on April 1st and runs through April 5th. The festival celebrates art, culture and the pink and white flowers that brighten the city each spring. Among the festival’s most popular events include the annual parade, street fair and hundreds of flower displays.
HAWAII
Who wouldn’t want to escape to the “Land of Aloha” for a spring getaway? Airfare to the 50th state is the lowest it has been in nearly a decade. In addition, some of the most popular island activities are being offered for free, including the East Maui Taro festival. This year’s event takes place from April 24-26 and promises an authentic old Hawaiian experience. What’s more, the festival’s setting can’t be beat. It is located between majestic Haleakala and the cobalt blue Pacific. Popular daily activities include taro tasting—everything from traditional poi to taro burgers, taro chips, and seafood chowder with taro. In addition you can enjoy local Hawaiian music and hula performances, or simply soak up the scenery and aloha spirit.
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