Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Kenilworth Lotus Flowers


Pink Lotus Flower

The 2024 Lotus & Water Lily Festival

The Lotus & Water Lily Festival is an annual event that celebrates the peak blooming period of the lotus and water lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. This year's festival theme, "The Art of Lotus and Water Lilies," underscores the inspiration these flowers provide across different cultures through art, music, and dance. The festival is co-hosted by the National Park Service and Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, with generous support from various foundations and individuals.

Festival Schedule

The festival kicked off on Friday, July 19th, with an afternoon of free programs and activities from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The schedule included:

  • Drop-in Art Class (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Participants created their own lotus and lily-themed art to take home.
  • Storytelling Program (12:00 PM): Dr. David Fakunie, President of the African American Storytellers Association, told a variety of stories.
  • Birds of Prey Program (1:15 PM): Liz Dennison from Secret Garden of Bird and Bees presented birds of prey found in the DC area, such as owls and hawks, and discussed their adaptations as hunters.

Friday evening, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, was designated as neighborhood night, local residents were invited to join in various free programs, including a ranger-led exploration of the lotus and lilies, a Zumba session with Zerline Hughes, and an art class limited to 25 participants.


A Historical Oasis in the Nation's Capital

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens has a storied past that dates back to the 19th century. The park's origins can be traced to 1880 when Walter Shaw, a Civil War veteran and passionate gardener, purchased a tract of land in the Kenilworth neighborhood. Shaw, driven by his love for aquatic plants, began cultivating water lilies in ponds he constructed himself. His horticultural endeavors quickly gained recognition, and he started selling the beautiful blooms to local florists.

The transformation of Shaw's private garden into a public park began in the early 20th century. In 1912, the U.S. government purchased the property to preserve its unique collection of aquatic plants. The park was officially established as Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in 1938, and it has since been managed by the National Park Service. Today, Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens stands as a testament to Shaw's vision and dedication, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a haven of natural beauty.


Pink Lotus Flower

The Allure of Water Lilies

Hot Pink Water Lily

One of the most captivating features of Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is its stunning collection of water lilies. These delicate and vibrant flowers float gracefully on the surface of the ponds, creating a picturesque scene that is nothing short of mesmerizing. The water lilies at Kenilworth come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and purple, each adding its unique charm to the landscape.

White Water Lily

Water lilies are not just beautiful; they also play a crucial role in the park's ecosystem. Their large, flat leaves provide shade and shelter for aquatic creatures, helping to maintain a balanced environment in the ponds. The flowers themselves attract a myriad of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity of the area.

Lotus Flower Bike Rail

The Majestic Lotus Flowers

Another star attraction at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is the collection of lotus flowers. These majestic blooms, known for their large size and striking appearance, hold deep cultural and spiritual significance in many parts of the world. In the ponds of Kenilworth, the lotus flowers create a stunning display during their peak blooming season, usually from late June to August.

Lotus flowers are not only admired for their beauty but also for their unique growth process. Unlike water lilies, lotus plants root themselves in the muddy bottom of the ponds and rise above the water surface, symbolizing purity and resilience. Their broad leaves and vibrant flowers stand tall, making them a symbol of strength and renewal.

Lotus Flower Bloom

The 2024 Lotus & Water Lily Festival at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a must-visit event for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience a unique cultural celebration in Washington, DC. With its diverse range of activities and programs, the festival offers something for everyone, from art and music to wellness and education. As you explore the gardens and enjoy the festivities, you'll discover why Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is considered a hidden gem in the nation's capital.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the city, the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens Lotus & Water Lily Festival provides a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, celebrate cultural diversity, and appreciate the beauty of these extraordinary flowers.

Pink Lotus Flower

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: A Unique Destination

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is the only National Park site in the U.S. dedicated to the cultivation and display of aquatic plants. It offers a serene escape from the urban environment, with its ponds and wetlands providing a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The gardens are particularly famous for their lotus and water lilies, which create a breathtaking display during their peak bloom in July, similar to the cherry blossoms in the spring.

Visitor Tips

Given the summer heat in Washington, DC, visitors are advised to bring water, wear comfortable walking shoes, and apply sunscreen. The area around the ponds lacks shade, so hydration is crucial. Bottled water is available at the Visitor's Center, and picnics are welcome, though grilling is not permitted. Food trucks will be present on some weekends in July for convenience.

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Map

Getting There

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is accessible by various means of transportation. Visitors can take the Metro's Orange Line to the Deanwood stop, followed by a 10-15 minute walk to the park. The park is also connected to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists. Parking is available in designated areas, and visitors are advised not to leave valuables in their cars.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

The Lotus & Water Lily Festival is not just a celebration of natural beauty; it also highlights the cultural and artistic significance of these flowers. Throughout history, lotuses and water lilies have been revered in various cultures for their beauty and symbolic meanings. They often appear in art, literature, and religious practices, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth.

This year's festival theme, "The Art of Lotus and Water Lilies," reflected this rich cultural heritage. The festival's activities, including art classes, dance performances, and musical concerts, provided a platform for artists to showcase their work inspired by these flowers. The festival also featured an artist's market, where visitors were able to purchase artworks and crafts related to the lotus and water lilies.


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Cyprus Root
White Lotus Flower
Smiling Dragonfly
Lotus Flower Blossom
Butterfly on Flower
Pink Lotus Flower

White Flower
Water On Huge Leaf
White Water Lily
Lavendar Flower with Bee
Yellow Lotus Flower
Cat Tail

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