Lotus Festival Celebration in Los Angeles Highlights Philippines
The 29th Annual Lotus Festival celebrates the people and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands this weekend at Echo Park in Los Angeles. Over 100,000 people attend the Lotus Festival whose timing coincides with the blooming of the lotus flower, which is a symbol of rebirth in Asian cultures. This year’s festival highlights the people and culture of the Philippines.
The Lotus Festival is the biggest special event sponsored by the Department of Recreation & Parks. It includes live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands.
A fabulous fireworks finale over Echo Park Lake will conclude the day's activities at 9:00 p.m., with legendary Taiko Drummers playing the background.
Artisans-at-work will be on hand to demonstrate their skills on the beautifully decorated Flower Island Pavilion. Their artwork illustrates their spirit, tradition and pride of the Asian and Pacific Islander handiwork. Includes: paper-cutting, hand painted scrolls, calligraphy, plant and flower expertise, fish, birds and other Asian artifacts.
The Health Fair will feature educational lectures on holistic fitness. Other services to be provided include: free screenings, information and referrals.
The Community service are will feature a variety of organizations offering free information, assistance and referrals in areas of employment, social services, immigration, legal services, education, housing and translating.
The Art Show Exhibit will feature artwork with the "lotus flower" theme painted by students from Junior and Senior High Schools and Senior Citizens throughout the Southern California communities. Professional artists will judge entries. The 2006 exhibit will be opening for viewing during Festival hours at the Cathedral Center of St. Paul, 850 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles, CA. (located across the street from the boathouse)
The International Marketplace will offer a variety of Asian and Pacific Islander items and gifts for sale, including clothing, jewelry, artwork, hand-made crafts, incense, body oils and much more.
Children's Courtyard will give children the opportunity to learn Asian and Pacific Islander arts and crafts, enjoy live music, stories, songs and dances.
Queens and Princesses representing their local communities will be in their native cultural dress.
Dragon Boat Races are held both days with media and community service groups, political and business organizations and local colleges and universities will be competing for awards, while enjoying a day at this Festival on the lake.
The Food Booth area will provide a variety of Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine, that will feature enticing delicacies, which are traditional to the Asian and Pacific Island cultures.
Last year's estimated attendance alone was well over 100,000 with the population composed of the diverse cultures that make-up Los Angeles!
Source: City of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, www.laparks.org
