The beloved Lotus Festival returns! This year on July 13 and Sunday, July 14, 2024 — Echo Park Lake will once again host their two-day celebration centered around the bloom of the stunning Lotus flowers of Echo Park Lake. This will be L.A.’s 43rd Lotus Festival and you’ll get to enjoy local food vendors, artisan goods, lanterns, races, free live entertainment, and more.
Every July, a different country is showcased and this year the people and culture of the Philippines will be honored. While there is some variation across cultures, these white blooms with blushes of pink symbolize purity, spirituality, fruitfulness, wealth and illumination.
L.A.’s first-ever Lotus Festival took place in 1972 at Echo Park Lake to celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander cultures. It was chosen as a location due to the large Asian and Pacific Islander communities residing in the area. It also happens to be home to the largest lotus bed in the country.
The Lotus Festival still remains as the city’s most treasured traditions. Its growing attendance makes it a spectacular way of promoting awareness and understanding of the contributions made by the AAPI cultures in Los Angeles.
You can expect dragon boat races, a pavilion, plus a gift bazaar to browse — and it all culminates with the launch of the glowing ‘light of dreams’ lantern over the shimmering waters.
Of course seeing these blooms this year all depends on mother nature. Regardless, being surrounded by community and culture is just as magical.
📅 When: July 13 through 14, 2024
📍Location: 571 Echo Park Lake, Los Angeles, 90026
Find out more information about the Lotus Festival here.