Longwood Gardens Kicks Off Festival of Fountains with Reopening of Waterlily Court

Waterlily CourtSubmitted Image

KENNETT SQUARE, PALongwood Gardens is welcoming visitors to its Festival of Fountains season, running May 9 through September 28, 2025. This summer’s spotlight is the grand reopening of the Waterlily Court, a cherished feature of the Gardens that has undergone a major restoration as part of the Longwood Reimagined project.

Originally designed by Sir Peter Shepheard in 1957 and updated in 1989, the newly restored Waterlily Court now features enhanced pools and graceful covered arcades. Its dark waters showcase nearly 100 varieties of tropical and hardy waterlilies, aquatic cannas, and lotus blooms. The Victoria ‘Longwood Hybrid’, a signature feature of Longwood’s collection, will return later in May with its stunning oversized leaves and pineapple-scented flowers.

“The Waterlily Court is one of Longwood’s most beloved spaces, cherished for its remarkable plant collection,” said Paul B. Redman, President and CEO of Longwood Gardens. “It’s return marks both a homecoming and a new chapter in our ongoing story of beauty, innovation, and global horticultural leadership.”

This season also includes the dazzling Fireworks & Fountains Shows, with six dates highlighting music paired with vibrant water and light displays. Illuminated fountain performances will light up the Main Fountain Garden on weekends, while Fountain Fest Weekends feature themed family-friendly fun.

Beyond the fountains, visitors can explore lush gardens, a Mediterranean-inspired West Conservatory, vibrant bonsai displays, and a packed Summer Performance Series featuring artists like jazz singer Gregory Porter and Beatles tribute band Britain’s Finest.

For horticulture enthusiasts, interactive workshops and lectures invite deeper connections with nature. The Festival of Fountains promises a summer of beauty, entertainment, and discovery for all ages. For detailed information, visit LongwoodGardens.org/visit.

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