A TOUCH OF DUTCH

 A TOUCH OF DUTCH NEXT DOOR

THERE is a quaint Dutch town only eight kilometres south of the British Columbia/Washington State border. It is called Lynden and it is now one of the largest Dutch American communities in the USA.

A small group of Dutchies settled there in the 1800s, followed by many others in that century, and the next, influencing the town’s history, culture and ambiance — much of which is still obvious today. It’s a community of about 12,000 and its economy depends on dairy, berry, grain, hops and vegetable farms, as well as tourism.

“Holland Days,” a Dutch Cultural festival, started in 1985. this two day Spring event, features costumed shopkeepers and Dutch Klompen (wooden shoes) dancers, and Dutch food. In the 1980s, Lynden remodeled part of Front Street in a Dutch theme, complete with a windmill. There is now also a Dutch bakery and restaurant in the town.

One of the showcase events of this part of Washington State is the annual tulip festival, an experience enjoyed by thousands of people who come from all over the region to witness the vibrant blooming of Spring.

Whether it’s festival time or just an ordinary day, Lynden is like a hidden jewel in the middle of nowhere, making itself somewhere worth seeing and experiencing!