Washington lilac blossoms bring visitors from around the world to the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens in Woodland, Washington, each spring.

Lilac Days brings visitors from around the world to the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens in Woodland, Washington, just a short drive north of Portland, Oregon. Whether you are a fan of the fragrant bush, love Victoriana, or want to get out in the countryside for the day, the gardens and home are worth a visit to see the gorgeous Washington lilacs.

Note that if you plan to drive from Portland and visit from outside the US, ensure you have an International Driver’s license to avoid any issues during your vacation.

The fully furnished Victorian farmhouse is fun to explore. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

Lilac Days Celebrates Washington Lilac Blossoms

Each spring, the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens hosts Lilac Days to celebrate the beauty of lilacs in bloom. Visitors from around the world stroll through the gardens, buy unique lilacs, visit “The Lilac Lady’s” Victorian-era home, and shop for lilac items in the gift shop. You’ll find that lilacs are not all light purple. The varieties range from white to deep magenta.

Shop for lilac-themed items at the gift shop. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

The Story of the Lilac Lady

So who was Hulda Klager? She was a woman passionate about lilacs who became a self-taught hybridizer in the early 1900s.

The gardens have more than lilacs to admire and photograph. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

Hulda immigrated from Germany with her family in 1865 at age two and settled in Wisconsin.

The lilac colors run from white to purple, to burgundy. Photos by: Elizabeth R Rose

In 1877, the family moved to Woodland, Washington, and purchased farmland, now the Hulda Klager property—a National and State Historic Site.

Stunning white lilacs in the rain. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

Years later, Hulda married and started a family. In 1903, while recovering from an illness, she read a book by Luther Burbank that kindled her passion for hybridizing. She started with apples and then moved to lilacs.

Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

By 1910, she had created 14 new varieties, but she didn’t stop there. She became known as “The Lilac Lady” and held an annual open house when the lilacs were at their peak to show them off. The tradition continues today.

When do Washington Lilacs Bloom?

Lilac Days are traditionally the three weeks before and including Mother’s Day. Lilac sales, Hulda’s farmhouse, and the gift shop are only open during Lilac Days.

Wandering the Hulda Klager Lilac Farm

The two-story home contains Klager family photos, furniture, and artifacts and has a lot of area history. But most of all, it is a beautiful home and a great representation of an early 1900s farmhouse. Volunteers from the local area have lovingly restored the water tower, windmill, and carriage house.

The windmill and water tower are still functional today. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

Add extensive work to the gardens, and you will be amazed at what has happened on this historic property.

Lilac Days are traditionally held from late April through Mother’s Day. The gardens are open daily from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. during Lilac Days and may be open year-round on select dates and times. A $3.00 fee is payable at the gate. Children under 12 years old enter free when accompanied by an adult. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed.

The Lilac Society has a sense of humor. Photo by Elizabeth R Rose

When You Go to See the Lilacs

Visit the Hulda Klager website or call 360.225.8996. For more colorful gardens, see these articles by Wander writers. And, if you are touring the Pacific Northwest, you may find inspiration in Wander With Wonder. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Washington State during the lilac season, consider using a local car service in Portland to get to the most amazing Washington lilac blossoms! The blooming season for these flowers is relatively short, so planning your trip accordingly is essential. A car service will ensure you get to where you need to go without hassle. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery along the way.