Flower parades are held all over the world, but the one that takes place in Zundert, the Netherlands, is extraordinarily artistic. It’s also the largest parade in the world. Huge floats are made of wire, cardboard and Papier-mâché', and entirely covered in dahlias in intricate designs. The dahlias for grown specifically for the parade, and thousands of them are required just to cover one float. |
The huge floats are made by twenty different hamlets and each of them consists of hundreds of builders, aged 1 to 100, who are all equally crazy about the Bloemencorso. The older members of the hamlet are often responsible for planting and growing the dahlias, while the younger ones build the float in large temporary tents that are built exclusively for the event. |
Building a float for the Bloemencorso is mainly a social event. Builders of all ages work side by side for over three months to get the float of their hamlet ready on time. It has to be as perfect as possible in order to win the competition. The parade itself takes place on the first Sunday of September, but the members of the hamlets work on their floats all summer. The tents are put up in May or June and from then on the volunteers put all their effort in creating the giant artworks. The last three days before the actual parade are the most stressful. |
Because the flowers have to be fresh, the hamlets can only start applying the dahlias on the floats on the Thursday before the parade. If necessary, the builders will work day and night to have their float ready on Sunday. |
Most people in Zundert will happily give up their days off to work on the float. The social cohesion that comes from building it is very important. A hamlet is like a family where everyone knows each other and everyone is welcome. After a long evening working on the float people drink a beer together and most hamlets organize all kinds of other activities like song contests and barbecues. |
The Most Beautiful Locations to Enjoy this Coming Spring!
Winter is over and the flowers are waking up and blossoming. These gorgeous photos show us how truly remarkable nature is.
These 20 Cute Bonsai Are a Cut Above the Average Tree
Trust the Japanese to have the most beautiful miniature trees in the world. These 20 bonsai's are so fabulous!
This Festival Celebrates Spring In an Original Way.
This Italian festival is unlike any other, and is truly worth seeing.
If You Love Flowers, This Show is the Place to Be!
The Chelsea flower show is a must for any flower lover. There is so much to see and smell!
Enjoy Gorgeous Flowers Accompanied By Inspiring Quotes
These flowers are truly stunning, and when they're juxtaposed with some amazing quotes, their beauty is even more apparent. Enjoy this beautiful post.
A Beautiful Look at the True Form of Flowers
Everyone knows that flowers are beautiful. But did you know they are also beautiful on the inside? Photographer and designer Hugh Turvey wanted to see if this was true...
Mind Blown! This Man is a Modern Day Master Craftsman
This man many literally be the world’s last living blacksmith, and creates weaponry wonders from normal stainless steel bolts.
This Famous Song Sounds Even Better in Acapella!
In this video the popular acapella group Pentatonix give an outstanding performance of John Lennon's famous song "Imagine".
Relax With a Few Moments of Heavenly Music
Take a few moments for yourself. Close your eyes and let the smile spread on your face as this sweet music spreads in the air.
You've Never Heard Ave Maria Sung Like This Before
Martin Hurkens voice is absolutely incredible. Check it out here.
This Magician's Illusions Will Leave You Stumped
In this video, Ivan Netcheporenko entertains his audience with some brilliant illusions.
This Girl Only Needs a Simple Flute to Delight Your Ears
Listen to the dulcet tones of this young girl's flute.
This Harp Breathes Magical New Life Into an Old Classic
Many people often claim that the harp is the instrument of the angels, and after watching this video, I'm sure you'll be inclined to agree.
Have You Ever Seen the Incredible Dance of 1000 Hands?
This Chinese dance requires 63 people to perform, and it's amazing!
The Shocking Hidden Secrets of 7 World Famous Paintings
Even paintings that have been seen for hundreds of years can reveal long lost secrets. These 7 mysteries have finally been cracked.
What This Man Built for Himself Will Astound You...
This artist decided to create a miniature version of the French capital.
This 2-Year-Old Can Dance As Well As Elvis
He may be just 2-years-old, but this boy can dance like the King!
Quiet Night In? Let These Amazing Movies Rack Your Brains
Have you ever watched a movie that leaves you scratching your head right until the very last scene? That's what these 10 amazing movies do best. Enjoy!
Paintings Have Never Looked More Real Than This Artist's
Can you believe these art pieces by Jason de Graaf aren't photos?
Let 'The Sugar Plum Fairy Dance' Excite Your Xmas Spirit!
What poise ballerina Nina Kaptsova displays in this gorgeous performance of Tchaikovsky's most Christmassy dance!
6 Priceless Art Pieces Were Ruined by Reckless People
As these accidents show, tourists can be more reckless around precious art than you'd expect and the invaluable art pieces are completely or partially destroyed.
André Rieu Surprises Again with a Musical Extravaganza!
The Zandvoort racetrack in the Netherlands is an unexpected venue for a classical music performance, but conductor and violinist André Rieu recently captivated the audience.
It's a Pleasure Watching This Couple Dance This Old Dance
Even if you're not a fan of swing music, you cannot help but admire this talented couple.
This Performance Requires Incredible Skill and Strength!
2 Incredible Acrobats put on a phenomenal show!
Classic Performance: The `Smoking Magician`!
Tom Mullica is one of the most celebrated magicians and comedians in the world, and is known for his amazing cigarette tricks. Also, his great sense of humor and showmanship make for a very entertaining show!
Feast Your Eyes on 10 Masterpieces by Norman Rockwell
Norman Rockwell was a famous 20th century American painter. Here are 10 of his best paintings.
This Classical Duo's Music Will Touch Your Soul, Guaranteed
Watch the legendary Anre Rieu perform alongside Gheorghe Zamfir, as they treat their audience to Lonely Shepherd, live from Bucharest.
This Stunning Embroidery Art is Truly a Sight to Behold!
Vera Shimunia is a Russian artist who has truly mastered the art of embroidery painting. Check out some of her stunning work here!
David vs. David: Comparing Two Classic Sculptures
Examining two sculptures by two distinct and famous artists: Donatello and Michelangelo
This Unique Art Works Mimic Life in a Beautiful Way
These insects may look real, but they are made entirely out of bamboo.
Watch These Acrobats Defy Gravity in an Amazing Circus Act
You’ll be on the edge of your seat watching these talented Russian circus acrobats perform feats on the teeterboard like you've never seen.
Mona Lisa's House: Where Da Vinci Painted His Masterpiece
The following photos will allow you to take a peek inside the home of the woman who intrigues millions of art and history lovers around the world.
This Beautiful Cover of Cher's 'Believe' Melted My Heart...
Watch Ella Henderson perform Cher's believe in the most impeccable way possible.
The Most Beautiful and Rare Glass Collection in the World
This museum is full of the beauty of glass making.
These 3D Paintings Appear to Pop Out Of the Sidewalk!
This has to be the most unique street art you'll ever see. This Russian artist's incredible work appears to come alive out of sidewalks in major cities.
This 91-Year-Old's Beautiful Portraits Touch Our Souls
Why feel bitter about aging when you could just enjoy life? This is the lesson of some wonderful artwork from a mother and son team from Canada.
Think That Cats Can't Be Trained? Think Again!
Thought one can't train cats? Think again! This talented French trainer can get his gorgeous Angora cats to pull off amazing acts that would put most dogs to shame!
Have You Ever Seen a Card Trick as Good as THIS One?
This magician's card tricks will leave you wondering how he managed to pull them off.
This Gorgeous 6-Year-Old Sings Like a Diva!
This 6 year old sings like some of the greatest women of the twentieth century. What a talent!
Behold the Card Trick Master!
It's always great to see someone who is a real master in what he does.
Could You Believe This Art Is Carved Out of a Pumpkin?
The pumpkins are not your typical Halloween pumpkin carving.
7 Scenes that Show the Impact Paintings Have on Cinema
The world of art is full of references to other famous artworks. Here are 7 examples of this from the world of cinema.
These Miniatures are Worth Their Weight in Gold...
Jon Almeda's miniature creations are worth their weight in gold...
12 Jaw Dropping Facts About the Most Famous Art in History
You'll likely recognize these famous artworks, but we’re willing to bet you didn’t know the incredibly curious facts about these masterpieces
When Art Meets Nature, Beauty Is Born
This artist creates gorgeous cutout art on the most unexpected canvas - leaves - and photographs his artworks in nature
Have You Ever Seen An Art Form More Unique Than This?
Take a look at her incredible designs right here! Beautiful!
Have You Ever Seen Love Depicted So Beautifully?
These exceptional artists were inspired by love and conveyed their message perfectly. Take a look: