After a three-year hiatus, one of Longwood Gardens’ most beloved spaces is back and more breathtaking than ever. The Waterlily Court, a central gem of the gardens since 1957, officially reopened on May 9, 2025, just in time to kick off the Festival of Fountains—a dazzling celebration of summer beauty that runs through September 28. 

Following a thoughtful restoration as part of Longwood Reimagined—the most ambitious transformation in the Gardens’ history—the Waterlily Court reemerges with its signature reflective pools, nearly 100 varieties of tropical and hardy waterlilies, towering aquatic cannas, and dreamy lotus flowers. A new covered arcade and a picture-perfect view of the stunning West Conservatory make the experience even more magical.  

Waterlily Longwood

What’s Blooming Beyond the Waterlily Court 

Longwood’s Festival of Fountains is a sensory journey through floral displays, peaceful meadows, and sun-drenched landscapes. Marvel at the vibrant colors of the Rose Garden, stroll through Peirce’s Woods under a canopy of tall trees, or enjoy sweeping valley views from the West Conservatory Plaza at golden hour. Inside the West Conservatory, you'll find Mediterranean-inspired plantings, fragrant heliotropes, night-blooming waterlilies, and elegant African lilies—all thoughtfully arranged to inspire wonder.  

And don’t miss the Bonsai Courtyard, where seasonal displays evolve from blooming Satsuki azaleas in spring to striking tropical bonsai by midsummer. 

Don’t Miss the Fireworks & Fountains 

Summer at Longwood really shines after dark. The always-popular Fireworks & Fountains Shows return with six spectacular nights combining choreographed water displays, dazzling fireworks, and music:  

  • Grand Fanfare | July 3 
  • Brat Pack Soundtrack | July 19 
  • Boogie Wonderland | August 9 Fireworks above fountains in Longwood Gardens
  • Reimagined Remixes | August 31 
  • Evening Masquerade | September 13 
  • Everybody Dance Now | September 27 

Special tickets are required and sell quickly, so plan ahead! 

Fountain Fest Weekends & Themed Entertainment 

Weekends are packed with fun for all ages during Fountain Fest Weekends—included with Gardens admission. Themed fountain shows, live music, and even Taylor Swift tunes make for an unforgettable visit.
Highlights include:  

  • Enchanted Weekend (May 23–25) – A celebration of Taylor Swift 
  • Once Upon a Dream (June 27–29) – Featuring animated movie favorites 
  • Dancing Queen Weekend (August 15–17) – A tribute to ABBA 

Dine Among the Flowers 

From casual snacks to fine dining, Longwood has your summer cravings covered. Enjoy live music in the Beer Garden Fridays through Sundays, savor garden-fresh fare at The Café, or indulge in an elegant evening at 1906, Longwood’s signature restaurant. With large arched windows overlooking illuminated fountains, it’s the ultimate dinner-with-a-view. 

Live Performances All Summer Long 

Festival of Fountains also brings a rich lineup of performing arts to the Gardens. Highlights include: 

  • The Mikado by The Savoy Company | May 30–31 Colorful Fountains
  • BalletX | June 5 
  • Cody Fry | June 18 
  • Preacher Lawson (Juneteenth Event) | June 20 
  • Something Rotten by The Brandywiners | July 23–26 
  • Gregory Porter | August 13 
  • Britain’s Finest Beatles Tribute | August 22–24 
  • Get Hands-On: Summer Workshops & Classes 

Whether you’re drawn by the flowers, fountains, fireworks—or the magic of it all—this is one summer season you won’t want to miss at Longwood Gardens.