Serenity is the New Luxury

Why travel the world for tranquility? Nearly a century ago, Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton made sure Vero Beach residents could find world-class serenity right here at home, where we are surrounded by the planet’s most stunning lilies.

Photo Credit: Chris Cronin

For centuries, lilies have been symbols of purity, renewal, and enlightenment—cherished by civilizations from ancient Egypt to Asia. Their delicate blossoms and serene presence invite contemplation and calm, which, let’s be honest, is just what we all need these days—certainly more than another scroll through our phones.

This Saturday, June 14, step into the 20th Annual Waterlily Celebration and discover over 80 dazzling waterlily varieties at their peak. Arrive early to catch the magical moment when night-blooming and day-blooming lilies open together—a rare spectacle you won’t want to miss.

• Event Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

• Location: McKee Botanical Garden, Vero Beach

  
  

And don’t forget to submit your best photos of McKee’s lilies for the Annual Waterlily Photo Contest (Submission deadline this Thursday, June 12)

Capture the Moment – Annual Waterlily Photo Contest

Whether your style is color, black and white, manipulated (or youth photography) your images must be captured at McKee Botanical Garden in 2024 or 2025.

• Submission Deadline: June 12

• Judging: June 13

• Winners & People’s Choice Voting: June 14 in the Hall of Giants

Photo Credit: McKee Botanical Garden

This is serenity, redefined—no passport required. Celebrate the extraordinary beauty and calm that’s yours, right here in Vero Beach.

For more information, click here.

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