Boulevard of Blooms: Elgin Street blossoms

by David Gladstone and Kathryn Hunt

: Chris Blais, owner of Woody’s, poses with his favourite tulip.

Thanks to Keith Loiselle, owner of Woody’s Urban Pub, and his fellow Elgin Street business owners, this year’s Tulip Festival includes flowering and man-made tulips along Elgin Street: The Boulevard of Blooms/Boulevard des Fleurs. The display is the result of a partnership between the Elgin Street BIA Steering Committee and the Canadian Tulip Festival. In less than two weeks, Elgin has gone from being “Sens Mile.” to being a showcase for tulips, although the Sens are not completely absent from the street; the Steering Committee unveiled the “Senators Tulip” on April 26.

“This is the kind of community business spirit that will ensure that the Tulip Festival continues to grow and delight residents and visitors alike,” said David E. Luxton, Volunteer Chair of the Canadian Tulip Festival.

The painted statues and planters full of purple tulips will be on display from May 4 to 21. Visitors will also find designated business locations with clues to the Great Canadian Tulip Treasure Hunt. Some of Elgin Street’s restaurants and nightspots will be featured locations as part of “Embrace the Night” celebrations throughout the festival.

Next step, establishment of the Elgin Street Business Improvement Area (BIA.)