The Lotus Festival at Echo Park Lake includes dragon boat races, food, music and fun activities for all ages. (photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Parks Foundation)

The 39th annual Lotus Festival, a signature event celebrating Asian cultures set against the backdrop of blooming lotus flowers in Echo Park Lake, will be held on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14.

Councilman Mitch O’Farrell, 13th District, is starting the celebration early on July 12 at 7 p.m. with a free concert on the park’s main lawn. The Lotus Festival Kickoff Concert was created by O’Farrell six years ago to give the local community a chance to enjoy an evening in the park prior to the festival. The Brazilian Soul Trio and the Ben Reddell Band will perform.

The evening of music is sponsored by O’Farrell’s office, the Department of Recreation and Parks, Echo Park Historical Society, Echo Park Improvement Association, and Bedrock. The Lotus Festival runs from noon to 9 p.m. on July 13, and noon to 8 p.m. on July 14. Visitors can enjoy dragon boat races, arts and crafts, music, food and the lotus flower beds. The event will focus on the culture and traditions of Thailand.

The festival debuted in 1972 as the “Day of the Lotus” and takes place in July to coincide with the blooming lotus flowers.  The celebration promotes awareness of the contributions by Asian-Americans in local communities.

Echo Park is located at 751 Echo Park Ave. For information, visit laparks.org/lotusfestival.