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To enjoy spring in Seattle, it's best to bring along both suntan lotion and an umbrella. If you're flexible to plan events around the weather, there are a number of indoor and outdoor activities that celebrate the season.

Seattle's wet winters subside as early as February, when bulbs and primroses start to push up and the sun comes out. (Note: anyone who lives in Seattle will tell you that it could rain steadily all the way through July 5.)

A must-do Seattle spring event is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which typically takes place in April (bloom dates are "according to Mother Nature"). Never mind the onslaught of visitors, tour buses, and the mud; everyone needs to "do the tulips" at least once. Bring boots or galoshes and prepare to be stunned by field after field of vivid tulip beauty. For dates and driving directions, visit www.tulipfestival.org.

Gardenin g is always a fun way to break out of the indoors and see some new growth. When the weather doesn't cooperate, the next best thing is to visit Molbaks in Woodinville. Molbaks isn't just a gardening and gift store; it's an experience. To make it a full gardening day, stop by Flower World, stroll around the four-acre spread, and pick out a plant or two. To kick off your garden day, start with a plate-sized cinnamon roll or country breakfast at Maltby Cafe. Arrive early or you'll have to wait in line. Cinnamon rolls can be purchased to go; fork required. For more info: www.molbaks.com; www.flowerworldusa.com; www.maltbycafe.com.

In May, it's fun to take the kids to the Seattle Center to enjoy the Seattle International Children's Festival (www.seattleinternational.org. Your family will enjoy the multicultural performers, crafts, and exhibits. While at the Center, stop by Pacific Science Center to admire the butterflies or see an IMAX film (www.pacsci.org.

If international movies are more your thing, the Seattle International Film Festival is a great way to enjoy features, documentaries, and short films throughout the city at a relatively low cost (www.seattlefilm.org).

When in doubt, the Pike Place Market is a great springtime event (www.pikeplacemarket.org). The marketplace is predominantly covered, offering visitors shelter from sun and rain. If you go in the spring, you'll have your pick of the finest floral bouquets in the city, many under $15. You can also try the region's best cheeses, fruits, and fish, all courtesy of local businesses.

Last but not least, on sunny spring days, hit the trail at Cougar Mountain for unparalleled views, or take a power walk to the lighthouse at Discovery Park.

There are many things to see and do in Seattle year-round, and spring is no exception. Enjoy exploring!

Learn more about this author, Kristen M. Anderson.
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