How to enjoy this year’s Lotus & Water Lily Blooms

This year, the heat has brought the Lotus and Water Lilies into bloom early, so we’re giving you the inside scoop on how you can enjoy them at this year’s Lotus and Water Lily Festival!

Try to get to the gardens early, the blooms may close with mid-day heat. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Dates: July 19th-July 21st

Time: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Location: Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave NE

 

How to attend:

• Driving - Kenilworth Park and Aquatic gardens has a dedicated parking lot that will likely fill up quickly on this busy festival. If it’s full you can park on the side of Anacostia Avenue. Additional parking may be available at the old Kenilworth Parkside Recreation Center campus.
• Biking - Take a scenic 20 minute bike ride along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail starting from the Anacostia Skating Pavilion (1500 Anacostia Drive SE) to the festival site! Alternatively, you can bike the Anacostia river from Bladensburg MD to Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. Bike racks are available at the end of the spur trail that leads from the paved Anacostia River Trail into the gardens. Biking on the paths around the lily pond is not permitted so ensure you leave them secured on the bike rack. 
• Metro - Simply take the DC Metro to the Deanwood Station and enjoy a brief 8 minute walk to the gardens.

What to Expect?

• Beautiful lotus and water lily displays
• Guided garden tours
• Family-friendly activities and crafts
• Live music and cultural performances
• Food vendors offering a variety of delicious treats