Dutch Lily Days to Open with a Focus on Sustainable Sector Consolidation

Anticipation is building for this year’s Dutch Lily Days, which will take place from 3-6 June, offering a fresh look at innovation and transformation in the lily sector. The official opening will be hosted on Tuesday, 3 June, by De Jong Lelies at its location in Andijk. This year’s edition places special emphasis on the sweeping changes taking place across the national and international lily industries, many of which are being shaped by political developments.

The opening ceremony will feature a keynote speech by Sjaak van der Tak, former Netherlands Agricultural and Horticultural Association (LTO) chair. Van der Tak, who led the organisation from 2021 to 2024, played a key role in the negotiations for the national agricultural agreement, which ultimately fell through. His insights will bring valuable context to the societal and political challenges facing the sector today. He will also spotlight the strides lily breeders, growers, and exporters are already making toward a more sustainable future—both in the Netherlands and beyond.

Celebrating 65 Years of Expertise

De Jong Lelies, this year’s host, is a household name in lily breeding and cultivation. The company breeds and grows lily bulbs and prepares and exports them worldwide. Known for its deep-rooted expertise in all things lily, De Jong Lelies is marking its 65th anniversary by opening the Dutch Lily Days at its Andijk premises.
From 3 to 6 June, visitors will have the opportunity to view the latest varieties, share insights, and engage in discussions about the industry’s current and future direction. Like the broader agricultural landscape, the lily sector is navigating significant change, and this event offers a timely platform for exchange and reflection.

A Global Gathering

The Dutch Lily Days are a fixture on the international horticultural calendar, drawing professionals worldwide. Thousands of visitors are expected to visit the 13 participating companies, where they can explore new introductions, connect with leading exporters, and gain a sense of what’s on the horizon in the lily world.

Floral Showpieces and Bridal Inspiration

Doors at De Jong Lelies open at 09:30 on June 3, with their lily displays ready to welcome guests. The official ceremony begins around 10:30. Throughout the day, renowned floral designer Paul Wijkmeijer will showcase the versatility of Liber Lilies—a pollen-free variety—by crafting striking floral arrangements. He will create exquisite bridal bouquets highlighting the lily’s elegance and charm.

Meet the Participants

The 13 companies taking part in Dutch Lily Days 2025 are: P. Aker, Boots Flowerbulbs, Van den Bos Flowerbulbs, Bot Flowerbulbs, De Jong Lelies Holland, Lily Company, Onings Holland Flowerbulbs, C. Steenvoorden, Gebr. Vletter & Den Haan, VWS Flowerbulbs, Jan de Wit & Zonen, Zabo Plant, and Royal Van Zanten Flowerbulbs.