6-06-05 This weekend: Echo Park Lotus Festival ! ! !

Caveat: BRING lots of sunblock ! ! ! It's gonna be hot and... HOT. Check out the dragonboat races as well. This is truly a multicultural event of the year in Los Angeles. Enjoy!

WHAT:
2005 Lotus Festival sponsored by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks


WHEN:
Saturday, July 9, 2005 - 12:00 noon to 9:00 p.m.Sunday, July 10, 2005 - 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m.(Dates coincide with the blooming of the Lotus Flower)


LOCATION:
Echo Park in Los Angeles, California, located on Park Avenue between Glendale Avenue and Echo Park Boulevard, just north of the Hollywood (101) and Pasadena (110) freeway junction, near Dodger Stadium


GENERAL PARKING LOCATIONS
LOGAN STREET SCHOOL:1711 W. Montana Street, Los Angeles. Cross streets Lemoyne St. and Montana St.
ECHO PARK BASEBALL DIAMOND:1632 Bellevue Ave, Los AngelesCross streets Temple St. and Glendale Blvd
CITY OF ANGELS MEDICAL CENTER:1711 W. Temple St, Los AngelesCross Streets Temple St. and Glendale Blvd.


MISSION:



To develop, promote and create an atmosphere of understanding in which Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California are brought together for two (2) days of cultural sharing. To preserve and enlighten the public with a sampling of distinctly different and unique Asian and Pacific Islander customs and traditions in the arts, music, dance, drama and food.
Providing a fun and enjoyable festival for the entire family.


HIGHLIGHTS:





















Opening Ceremonies begin on Saturday at 12:00 p.m., as we earmark the 28 th Annual Lotus Festival, which include live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands . This year the Festival will highlight the people and culture of " Korea ". 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.
Asian and Pacific Islander personalities from the media and acting professions will act as emcees/hosts during this two-day event.
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 2005 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!


CONTACT:



2005 Lotus Festival3900 West Chevy Chase DriveLos Angeles, CA 90039(213) 485-1310; FAX (213) 485-8746
Mary Ezell Bingham, Festival ChairpersonIrena Seta, Festival Planning & Marketing Assistant
Email: Lotus@rap.lacity.orgWebsite: www.laparks.org/grifmet/lotus.htm