HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) — The tulips are blooming and that has Holland-area leaders concerned. For the first time in 91 years, that last thing they want to see are crowds in the Tulip City. (See WHTC’s tulip gallery)
Holland Mayor Nathan Bocks issued a video appeal late Monday, telling viewers that in the many years he’s been involved in the Tulip Time — as a wooden-shoe seller; as a 25-year festival guide, board member and chair of the 85th festival.
“As the Mayor, my primary responsibility is the health, safety and welfare for the people of Holland and I take that responsibility very seriously. For that reason I’m making a request I never thought I would make — and I hope I never have to again: Please. Do not come to Holland to see the Tulips this year.”
He said Holland can’t welcome guests right now, citing the difficulty in good social-distance practices and the lack of adequate restrooms, among other issues.
“There will be other years, we promise,” he said, promising a rebirth of the beloved flower festival.
When that happens, he said, the crowds will be more-than welcomed.
Bocks finished the message emphasizing recent recurrent messages about washing hands — and the #OneHolland unity campaign.
