PELLA, Iowa – Tulip Time is about two weeks away, but preparations are already underway in Pella.

Thistles Flower Market, previously known as the Village Florist, was purchased by Alie Muller-Heit last November. She fondly remembers the building that now houses the floral shop as a former soda shop she visited as a child. Now, owning a business in the same building is a full-circle moment for her.

This will be Muller-Heit’s first Tulip Time as owner of Thistles Flower Market, and she’s bringing several new features to the festival. Thistles has partnered with one of their main providers of tulips, Nunnikhoven Farm, to host a tulip master class. The class will cover information about tulips, such as how to plant, care for, and arrange them. Classes will be held at 10 a.m. at Thistles Flower Market on April 19, April 26, and during Tulip Time (May 1-3). Additional classes will take place during Tulip Time at 11:30 a.m. in Pella’s Central Park.

Thistles is home to several varieties of tulips that can’t be found in many other places. Those interested are able to view or even order them at PellaTulipBulbs.com. The flower market is also selling Delft pottery from the Netherlands, another rare find.

This year, Thistles is introducing flower carts that will be found all around Pella during Tulip Time. The carts can be located at Central Park, Sunken Gardens Park, and at the Klokkenspel. Customers will find Iowa-made Dutch Letter flavored popcorn, tulips from Nunnikhoven Farm, faux tulips, and candles.

If you’d like to learn more about what Thistles Flower Market has to offer or view more information on their tulip master class, you can visit their website here. Pella Tulip Time takes place May 1-3.