20th Annual Waterlily Celebration
Mark your calendars for a blooming extravaganza as McKee Botanical Garden proudly presents its 20th Annual Waterlily Celebration on Saturday, June 14, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. This much-anticipated event will showcase more than 80 varieties of stunning waterlilies, including McKee’s renowned collection of 48 varieties certified as Collections of Excellence by the International Waterlily and Water Gardening Society—a distinction held by only eight gardens worldwide.
Each year, the Waterlily Celebration attracts a vibrant mix of McKee members, horticultural enthusiasts, photographers, artists, and visitors from across Florida. Guests can enjoy a full day of immersive activities, including waterlily reporting demonstrations, specialty vendors offering plants, wire art, wood crafts, and handmade African baskets, and plein air artists capturing the beauty of the gardens in real time.
Early arrivals at 8:30 am will have a rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking display of night-blooming waterlilies alongside their day-blooming counterparts—a truly magical sight. Throughout the day, visitors can also learn about the vital ecological role these aquatic plants play in sustaining healthy ecosystems.
20th Annual Waterlily Photo Contest
A favorite highlight of the Waterlily Celebration is the Waterlily Photo Contest, open to both McKee members and the public. Participants are invited to showcase their photography skills by submitting images of waterlilies or lotuses taken at McKee Botanical Garden in 2024 or 2025. Both film and digital formats are welcome.
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Photographers may submit one photo per style category:
• Color
• Black and White
• Manipulated
Young photographers (ages 17 and under) are encouraged to enter the dedicated Youth Category. Full contest guidelines and entry forms are available at the bottom of this page.
Entry Information:
• Submission dates: June 3–June 12
• Location: McKee’s Administrative Office (south parking lot at 350 US Highway 1)
• Note: The Garden is closed on Mondays.
Submissions will be judged by a panel on Friday, June 13. All entries—including winning photos—will be displayed in the historic Hall of Giants during the Waterlily Celebration on June 14.
Awards will be presented for First, Second, and Third Place in each adult category, with Honorable Mentions recognized. In the Youth Category, winners for First, Second, and Third Place will be announced. In addition, visitors on June 14 will have the opportunity to vote for the “People’s Choice” award.
Come celebrate the beauty of McKee’s extraordinary waterlily collection and showcase your creativity at one of Florida’s most unique and cherished garden events!
