Lotus and Water Lily Festival

Lotus and Water Lily Festival

The lotus ponds at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens put on their show every July, and the National Park Service throws a two day festival timed to peak bloom. This year it lands on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19, starting at 10am each day. You get acres of pink lotus flowers taller than your kids, water lilies covering the ponds, plus performances, crafts, and family games spread through the gardens. It's free, and it still feels like a local secret even though it's been running for years.

One thing to know about lotus flowers: they open in the morning and start closing by early afternoon, especially on hot days. Go early if the blooms are the main event for you. The boardwalk over the ponds works fine with a stroller, and kids usually spot frogs, turtles, and dragonflies without trying. Wear shoes you don't mind getting muddy, since the paths between ponds are dirt and the whole place sits in a tidal marsh.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Go in the morning. The lotus flowers start closing up around midday, and the boardwalk has almost no shade. Earlier is cooler and prettier.
• ✓Bug spray is not optional. The gardens sit in a marsh. Spray everyone before you leave the car.
• ✓Wear shoes that can get muddy. The paths between the ponds are packed dirt and stay damp after rain.
• ✓Bring water and hats. There's a water fountain near the visitor center, but not much out on the boardwalk.
• ✓Bathrooms are at the visitor center only. Do a pit stop when you arrive, since the far ponds are a decent walk back.