A beautiful transformation is about to take over one of L.A.’s most iconic waterscapes. For one weekend only, Echo Park Lake is bringing a vibrant weekend of cultural celebrations, food, and community events to the heart of the city. Mark your calendars for July 11 and 12, because the legendary Lotus Festival is returning, and this year’s energy is going to be absolutely enchanting.
What is the Lotus Festival?
The festival centers around the magnificent lotus flowers, ancient symbols of rebirth, purity, and spiritual awakening. Every year, the festival honors a different Asian Pacific Islander culture. For 2026, its 45th edition, the festival is unveiling the rich, vibrant, and mystical heritage of Sri Lanka.
What’s waiting for you at the Lotus Festival
- Dragon Boat Races: A signature element of the festival, the dragon boat races bring high-energy competition to Echo Park Lake. Teams race across the water in traditional, intricately decorated dragon boats, cheered on by crowds lining the shorelines.
- Cultural Performances & Live Entertainment: Throughout the weekend, the festival stages will host traditional dance, music, and theater performances. These showcases represent a wide range of Asian cultures, with special featured performances dedicated to celebrating Sri Lankan heritage.
- Echo Park Lotus Run: Join the 5km run! Sign up here.
- Lantern Festival: In this event, 3D-printed lotus flowers and traditional paper lanterns float across Echo Park Lake to create a beautiful experience.
- Food & Culinary Experiences: The festival features a sprawling open-air food court with local vendors serving a massive variety of Asian Pacific Islander cuisines. Visitors can sample everything from authentic local street food staples to traditional specialty dishes.
- Arts & Crafts Marketplace: Local artists, vendors, and artisans selling both traditional and contemporary goods.
- Community Engagement & Workshops: The Lotus Festival is entirely family-friendly, offering educational activities, interactive cultural exhibits, and hands-on workshops designed to celebrate the history and ongoing contributions of API communities in Los Angeles.
Event Overview & Hours
The two-day festival is free to attend and open to all ages! However, some special events may require separate ticket purchases.
- Dates: Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026
- Saturday Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday Hours: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Echo Park Lake (751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026)