Jinan welcomes annual lotus celebration

The 40th Jinan Lotus Art Festival opened on July 3 at Daming Lake Scenic Area, kicking off the city's annual summer celebration of lotus blossoms with exhibitions, cultural activities, and interactive experiences that will last through Aug 9.

More than 100 lotus varieties are on display in over 600 potted arrangements. Highlights include striking red varieties, elegant multicolored blossoms, and rare yellow-green lotus flowers, along with a dedicated exhibition of more than 10 bowl lotus cultivars.

The festival's main exhibition is centered at Beiji Pavilion Square, where a stepped floral display forms the visual centerpiece. QR codes placed alongside each variety allow visitors to learn about its name, blooming season, and cultural significance, while water lilies, pickerelweed, and other aquatic plants enhance the surrounding landscape.

Beyond the flower displays, the festival features immersive photo spots and a selection of lotus-themed cultural and creative products, offering visitors opportunities to experience lotus culture.

Now in its 40th year, the festival has become one of Jinan's signature summer events, drawing residents and visitors to Daming Lake each year to enjoy the city's seasonal lotus blooms.

Lotus flowers bloom across Daming Lake, ushering in the 40th Jinan Lotus Art Festival. [Photo/WeChat account: quanyoujinan]

A lotus with white petals edged in pink blooms at Daming Lake. [Photo/WeChat account: quanyoujinan]

Soft yellow-green petals distinguish one of the rare lotus varieties exhibited during the festival. [Photo/WeChat account: quanyoujinan]