Please join us on a field trip to Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens on Saturday 19 July 2025.
The 2025 Lotus & Water Lily Festival will be held from Friday, July 18th through Sunday, July 20th.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens, nestled along the Anacostia River in Washington, D.C. (just across from Maryland), is a lush sanctuary of ponds, marshland, and boardwalks managed by the National Park Service. Home to rare water lilies, vibrant lotuses, and a diverse range of wildlife, from dragonflies and turtles to almost 260 bird species, it spans around 700 acres of natural and cultivated ecosystems
Why it’s a Photographer’s Dream
- Stunning floral variety: Expansive ponds host water lilies and lotuses in shades from pale pink to deep magenta, blooming May through early fall—mid-July marks the visual peak.
- Rich biodiversity: Capture dragonflies perched on blossoms, herons wading in ponds, turtles basking on logs, and a kaleidoscope of birds—the harmony of nature and blooms offers dynamic compositions.
- Scenic walkways: Elevated boardwalks cut through the marshlands and ponds, creating natural framing opportunities with reflections and leading lines.
- Soft, textured light: Mornings and overcasts soften harsh contrast, ideal for macro and close-up shots.
The Lotus & Water Lily Festival (Mid-July)
Held annually July 18–20, coinciding with peak blooms :
- Three full days of activities including guided walks, cultural performances, yoga sessions, art workshops, storytelling, wildlife demos, and neighborhood evening events.
- Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. (Fri–Sat), and until 4 p.m. on Sunday, perfect for morning or golden hour photography.
- Free access and family-friendly, though crowds increase, early arrival secures the best light and angles.
- Festival schedule highlights:
- Morning walks and macro ops at sunrise
- Art demos and workshops for creative framing
- Ranger-led nature photography and flora/funga tours
- Occasional special events: night-blooming lily hikes, bird-of-prey demonstrations, etc.
Photo Tips for Festival-Goers
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Arrive early | Beat crowds, catch dewdrops and golden light |
| Bring macro + wide lenses | Capture both intimate details and sweeping landscapes |
| Use a tripod | Essential for low-light specimens and creative compositions |
| Shoot reflections | Glass-like pond surfaces in early morning offer artful opportunities |
| Include wildlife | Dragonflies, herons, turtles add life to floral shots |
| Vary perspectives | Use boardwalks for overhead shots; kneel for dramatic low-angle blooms |
| Stay respectful | Stick to designated paths to avoid disturbing sensitive flora |