Lotus and Water Lily Festival

 

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a one-of-a-kind destination within Anacostia Park and it is a hidden gem in Washington, DC. The summer lotus and lily blossoms are a “must see” during their peak blooming period in July, not unlike viewing the cherry blossoms in the spring. We hope you will have a chance to visit the park this July. We also encourage you to learn more about the Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens by visiting their website and/or stopping by their table at the park when you visit the festival in July.

 

A Pink water lily with a bumble bee

Tim Ervin

The 2024 Lotus & Water Lily Festival will run from July 19th through July 21st. The festival will feature three days of cultural performances, classes, ranger programming and more! The theme of this year's festival" the art of Lotus' and Water Lilies" celebrates the way these beautiful flowers are depicted in cultures around the world through art music and dance and it celebrates the many ways our community finds creative inspiration in the flowers of the garden. Come visit the park to enjoy the varity of programs and see the water lilies and lotuses in bloom.

Park Hours During the Festival will be as follow:
Friday July 19th: 8:00am to 8:00pm
Saturday July 20th: 8:00am to 8:00pm
Sunday July 21st: 8:00am to 5:30pm

 

2024 Lotus & Water Lily Festival Events Schedule

The Festival will take place from Friday July 19th through Sunday July 21st. 

Friday, July 19th

Friday Day Schedule:

This year’s festival kicks off with an afternoon of free programs and activities from 10 to 2:00 pm. Other activities will be ongoing throughout these 4 hours, so you can take your time going from different activities.

Scheduled Programs:

10:00 am - 12:00pm Drop in Ranger Kids Activities

Learn about fish, bats, and more at the Ranger Kids Table!

10:00 am - 12:00pm Drop in Art Class with artist Darrelynne Strother

Join us at the Lotus and Lily Festival for a creative and fun-filled workshop where children will make their very own musical art instruments! 

On the hour 12:00 am - 2:00pm 15 Minute Board Walk Talks

Meet at the entrance to the boardwalk to hear a 15 minute talk on the lotus, the water lilies, the history of the park and the marsh. 

12:00pm Storytelling Program with Dr. David Fakunie

Bring your lunch and relax as you listen to a variety of stories performed by master storyteller, David Fakunie, who is the President of the African American Storytellers Association. 

1:15 pm Birds of Prey Program by Liz Dennison from Secret Garden of Bird and Bees

Have you ever wanted to see a bird of prey up close? This show features birds of prey found in the Washington, DC area like owls and hawks. Learn about the birds of prey living right in our neighborhoods – our wildest neighbors. 

Friday Night Schedule: Neighborhood Night

Friday is neighborhood night and we’re inviting all our Ward 7 and other neighbors to join us for a variety of Free programs from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. 

4:00pm Garden Tour

Join a ranger to learn more about the Lotus’ and Lilies and the native wildflowers of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.

5:00pm Zumba

Lace up your sneakers and get moving to the music with neighborhood Zumba instructor, Zerline Hughes. Ditch the workout and join the party with Zumba with Z. Zumba Fitness is an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party. All levels and ages encouraged to participate. 

5:00pm Acrylic Painting Class by Paint Amore

We provide the materials and the instruction, and you create a beautiful piece of art to take home! This class is Free but is limited to 25 students. The sign-up list for this class will be at the “Welcome Table.”

5:00 pm Edible Wild Plant Walk

Learn to recognize some of the edible wild plants of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens with local foraging expert, Dr. Yew. Join Docta Yew as he shares how to recognize plants growing in the environment, and how they have been used for food, therapeutic value, and other practical applications.Yuma "Docta Yew" Bellomee is a Certified Holistic Health Consultant, herbalist, wellness advocate/educator, and musical artist. This walk is limited to 20 participants. Sign up for this class at the “Welcome Table.”

5:45 pm Washington Dunhuang Guzheng Academy

The Guzheng is an ancient Chinese zither that is believed to have been invented during the Qin Dynasty (897–221 BCE). For the first time, we’re excited to welcome, Students and Instructors of the Washington Dunhuang Guzhuang Academy to perform traditional Chinese music on the guzheng.

6:15 pm Spoken Word Poet, Sir Harvey Fitz

Enjoy spoken word by talented Poet Sir Harvey Fitz in front of beautiful flowers

7:00 pm Adamare

Rock out to the original music of Adamare, a local band of vocalists and musicians who are DC Public School teachers by day and rock stars by night! They describe their music as a fusion of soul, jazz, and rock and we’d describe “Adamare” as one of the band you need to see live in Washington, DC!

Saturday July 20th

Saturday Schedule: 

On the hour 10:00 am - 5:00pm 15 Minute Board Walk Talks

Meet at the entrance to the boardwalk to hear a 15 minute talk on the lotus, the water lilies, the history of the park and the marsh. 

9:00am Yoga with Ebony

Join Ebony Wheeler of Brown Eyed Girl Yoga for a yoga class that is meant to guide you into authentic movement and connect with your body. This class is inspired by the element of earth and water allowing you to find fluidity yet feel grounded and connected. Ebony will start class with breath work, guide you through a fun and energizing yoga class and end with poetry and sound to relax you. 

10:00am Thai Cultural Programming

The Wai Tat Temple presents a program of Thai cultural programming. Wat Thai DC is a non-profit Buddhist temple that was established in 1974. They have provided religious teachings and cultural education through Thai language, music, and dancing.

11:30am Korean Programming

Come experience Buddhist Chanting, Korean Dance and other Asian Programming

12:30pm Sharanya Dance

Enjoy a Classical Indian dance performance at this years festival. Sharanya is committed to providing a quality education in the Indian classical Bharatanatyam dance style. Classes focus on training all ages in the dance foundations and theory needed to cultivate our students into well-rounded artists. We believe that dance is a powerful form of art that can help people grow and develop in many ways.

1:00pm Classical Indian Music

Sitarist, Sambarta Rakshit, returns to the Lotus and Waterlily Festival this year with tabla prodigy, Anirudh Alva Changakoti. Anirudh, a disciple of maestro, Zakir Hussain, regularly accompanies touring South Asian musicians. The duo will present a traditional Indian classical piece followed by a brief tabla solo. Sitar and tabla are rich acoustic instruments that model the fluidity of the voice and the pristine sounds of nature. Come, enjoy a journey into Raga Nat-Bhairav, a serene, yet romantic melody that blends perfectly with the setting. 

1:30 Bollywood Dance

BollyNatyam Masala’s mission is to transcend cultural and gender barriers with re-imagined, innovative, cross-cultural choreography and music to empower students of all ages to overcome boundaries, and self-confidence through the art of dance. Their dance is a vibrant blend of Bollywood, Bhangra, and various Indian dance styles mixed with contemporary Western influences. Set to uplifting fusion music, it creates an exhilarating and inclusive experience that is fun for all ages. This cross-cultural celebration of movement and rhythm brings joy and energy to every performance.

2:00pm Mariachi Los Amigos

Daniel Sheehy and Mariachi Los Amigos perform Mariachi music and discuss the history of Mariachi musical traditions. Mariachi Los Amigos is a group of musician-friends brought together by their love of the sounds and spirit of Mexican mariachi music. Hailing from different parts of the United States and from different countries of the Americas, they are living testimony to how mariachi music, born in rural towns and ranches in western Mexico, has spread far and wide throughout the Americas and beyond.

3:00pm Corazón Folklórico Dance Company

Corazón promotes and celebrates the cultural diversity of Mexico through Ballet Folklórico dance performance by building a community of passionate dancers throughout the DMV area. The dance company achieves their mission by offering engaging classes to students of all backgrounds and levels, collaborating with community members and organizations on presenting exciting dance performances at events throughout the year, and producing an annual showcase at a D.C. theatre for the general public to enjoy.

3:30 pm Storyteller, David Fakunie with DiscoverME/RecoverME

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is excited to welcome Storyteller David Fakunie to the festival stage. Dr. David Fakunle and "Dr. Mama" Deborah Pierce-Fakunle are DiscoverME/RecoverME, an organization that utilizes storytelling and the acknowledgment of positive intrinsic qualities to catalyze emotional foundations for healing, restoration and growth.

4:00 pm Flamenco with Sara & Ricardo

Experience the passion and artistry of flamenco with our vibrant program, featuring traditional dances like Sevillanas, Guajiras, and Soleá, alongside captivating flamenco and rumba guitar solos. Join us for an unforgettable performance where the rhythms and melodies of Spain come alive, performed by the renowned Sara Jerez and Richard "Ricardo" Marlow. Don't miss this mesmerizing celebration of flamenco culture, showcasing the talent and dedication of two of Washington D.C.'s finest artists!
 

4:30 pm DC Strings Hip Hop Symphony

Experience the fun sounds of this hip hop symphony! Their mission is to share our love of classical and contemporary orchestra and chamber music with the community. They take pride in presenting meaningful and challenging orchestral works that rival the programming of large professional orchestras. DC Strings Workshop (DC Strings) works to build community and expand horizons by engaging diverse audiences, supplying instruments to deserving students, and working to expose students and adults alike to music of women and underrepresented people of color. . 

Sunday July 21st

Sunday Schedule:

On the hour 11:00 am - 4:00pm 15 Minute Board Walk Talks

Meet at the entrance to the boardwalk to hear a 15 minute talk on the lotus, the water lilies, the history of the park and the marsh. 

9:00am Morning Yoga with Nzinga

Welcome to Yoga with Nzinga! I'm excited to guide you on this journey of self-discovery and holistic wellness. Whether you're a novice or an experienced yogi, my energetic and compassionate approach ensures a non-judgmental and inviting environment. Let's take this time to connect deeply with our bodies, minds, and breath.

9:00am Bike Ride with the Washington Area Bicyclists Association

Enjoy an hour long slow pased bike ride along the Anacostia River! The DC Trail Ranger program aims to make the District trails welcoming and inclusive to all residents, frequently used, and in a state of good repair. They host engaging and culturally relevant events such as yoga classes, trash clean ups, and scavenger hunts year round on our program trails - Anacostia River Trail, Marvin Gaye Trail, Oxon Run Trail, 295 trail, and Metropolitan Branch Trail. Participation in open to 15 people. Please register at the Welcome Table. 

10:00am Plant Foraging Walk with Dr. Yew

Learn about edible wild plants are Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on this 45 minute walk. Learn to recognize some of the edible wild plants of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens with local foraging expert, Dr. Yew. Join Docta Yew as he shares how to recognize plants growing in the environment, and how they have been used for food, therapeutic value, and other practical applications.Yuma "Docta Yew" Bellomee is a Certified Holistic Health Consultant, herbalist, wellness advocate/educator, and musical artist. This walk is limited to 20 participants. Sign up for this class at the “Welcome Table.” 

10:00am and 1:00pm Acrylic Painting Classes 

The beautiful flowers in the garden inspire artists of all kinds. In this class you will learn to paint lotus or other flowers of the garden. Class size is limited to 30 students. Sign up at the Welcome Table. 

10:00am King Bullfrog

For the first time at the Lotus and Water Lily Festival, King Bullfrog will rock out in the garden with their music for kids of all ages.

11:00am Birds of Prey Program

Washington, DC native and Master Falconer, Rodney Stott will talk about his work and show some of his live hawks and owls. Stott is also the author of the memoir, “Bird Brother: a Falconer’s Journey and the Healing Power of Wildlife.” Rodney Stotts is a master falconer and licensed raptor specialist from Southeast Washington D.C. Through his organization, Rodney’s Raptors, Mr. Stotts creates interactive and educational programming, allowing adults and children of all ages to experience the excitement that comes from interacting with a live bird of prey.

12:00pm West African Drumming and Dance

Come enjoy the beautiful music on the main stage. Join Ni Dembaya African Drum and Dance Ensemble as they perform and engage you with traditional songs, rhythms, and dances from West Africa.

1:00pm Bachata Dance with Ferocity Dance Company

Dancer, Kat Arias and Ferocity Dance Company will perform several Bachata Dances and then will teach a short class so you can learn some Bachata dance moves for the next performance. The great thing about Bachata is that there's a little something for everyone! It can be fast, slow, romantic, dramatic, fusion or traditional but in whatever form you prefer it, it's always fun! Join the Ferocity Dance Company as they perform several showcases, teach you about Bachata, and of course - how to dance Bachata! 

1:30pm Sol y Rumba

Established in 1993 by singer-songwriter Maria Isolina, Sol y Rumba stands as a beacon of Latin musical excellence in the heart of the D.C. metropolitan area. The ensemble comprises some of the region's most talented musicians, each boasting an impressive musical pedigree. Dancing along is encouraged!

2:30pm XJ Dance

The Xuejuan Dance Ensemble (XDE) was founded in 2009 by Xuejuan Feng, with the mission of providing education and performance opportunities in the art of Chinese folk and classical dance. Since its inception, the ensemble has welcomed and nurtured amateur, pre-professional, and professional dancers of differing ages and backgrounds. The ensemble offers training in technique and repertoire to pre-teens, teens, and adults through a diverse curriculum directed by professional educators. Participants are given exceptional performance opportunities in a variety of venues around the world.

3:00pm Fashion Show
The Fashion Show is back! See the incredible talents of fashion designers in the community. 

4:00pm DJ Dance Party with DJ 2-Tone Jones

The dance party continues at this years Lotus and Water Lily Festival. DJ 2-Tone Jones is a DC-based artist that has traveled across the globe connecting with people through the art of DJing. He is also the co-creator of the award-winning brand SHAOLIN JAZZ; which produces a range of unique engagements and content that explores the intersections of hip-hop, jazz and martial arts culture.

4:30pm The Tribe Band

Closing out this year’s festival will be DC’s own, The Tribe Band playing a variety of R&B and Funk music favorites that will be sure to have the crowd out of their seats! TRIBE BAND perform all types of music from Motown to R&B, Southern Soul, Smooth Jazz, Blues, Funk, Old School/ New School music and GO GO.

 

 

Directions

There are three easy ways to get to the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens! Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is located at 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE.

1. Drive: The park has a dedicated parking lot that fills up quickly on busy weekends. Please refrain from parking in the neighborhood or blocking driveways. We recommend parking on the park side of Anacostia Avenue or there is additional parking parking for visitors with disabilities is located on Anacostia Avenue between Polk St. and Ord St. NE at the old Kenilworth-Parkside Recreation Center campus and is a short walk from near the park entrance. There is plenty of additional parking at this location.
2. Bike: Enjoy a 20 minute bike ride along the scenic Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, starting from the Anacostia Skating Pavilion (1500 Anacostia Drive SE) to the festival site. You can also bike the Anacostia River Trail 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. Please leave your bike at the bike racks as biking on the paths around the ponds is not permitted.
3. Metro: Take the DC Metro to the Deanwood Station. Once you are at the station you will take the Polk St NE exit. Currently, the Douglas St. Pedestrian Bridge is under construction. The alternate route will be crossing Anacostia Freeway from Eastern Ave NE northeast of Polk St NE. The alternate route should take you about 15-20 minutes to walk.

 

People taking pictures of the lotus flowers

Tim Ervin

What to Bring

Please bring water! Bottled water is sold in the Visitor's Center. The area around the ponds does not have much shade and it can be very hot during the summer so make sure you carry water with you to stay hydrated as you walk around the park.

You can bring a picnic or snacks to the park. Picnic tables are available in the picnic and a few other locations. There are no grills in the picnic area and visitors are not permitted to bring grills to the park. On some weekends in July, there will be food trucks in the park for the convenience of park visitor since there are no places nearby to purchase food and beverages.

Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. Dogs on leash are allowed at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and owners are responsible for picking up waste.

Safety

Be prepared! July is a hot month in Washington, DC, so having a hat, staying hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion and wearing sunscreen are recommended. It is also a good idea to wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.

Don’t leave valuables in your car, and park only in the designated parking areas mentioned above.

If you see something, say something! Call U.S. Park Police at 202-617-7500.

 

Social Media

Follow us online and become a part of our social media community by tagging us in your photos, reacting to posts, and sharing what you love most about the Lotus and Water Lily Festival.

Facebook @kenilworthaquaticgardens
Instagram @kenilworthnps

 

Explore More

• 

  Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

  Volunteer or enjoy events with the official Friends group for the park.

• 

  History of the Aquatic Gardens

  The aquatic gardens began in the 1880s when Walter Shaw planted water lilies in ponds he had dug along the Anacostia River.

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  Anacostia Park

  Explore your neighborhood national park in the heart of Washington, DC!