Dianne Stevens, Summer Vaughan, and Ann Easterwood. PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

The local treasure that is McKee Botanical Garden is always a beautiful, soul-soothing place to spend time, and during the 18th annual Waterlily Celebration, it shone brighter than ever. The fabulous waterlilies, the eponymous divas of the day, were at their dazzling best, as visitors of all ages wandered the garden’s winding paths along meandering waterways, cameras at hand, oohing and aahing and thoroughly enjoying all that Mother Nature has to offer.

The garden gates were unlocked early that day and those who arrived at the 8:30 a.m. opening were able to glimpse the exotic night-blooming lily varieties before they folded their petals like Broadway Babies. Latecomers were still able to enjoy the pink, yellow, white and deep purple hues of the daytime bloomers that dot the garden’s ponds.

Vero natives Jan Patrick, Nancy Griffis and Karen Flannery, friends since grade school, said they attend the Waterlily Celebration every year, noting that McKee has been a part of their lives since the days when it was McKee Jungle Garden.

“We grew up with the Sexton family,” they say, referencing the family of Waldo Sexton, who with fellow visionary Arthur McKee, were the, the garden’s original creators.

Of the changes made over the years, the trio unanimously agreed, “They’ve done such a beautiful job!”

Plein air artists aways take part in the event, their easels set up beside the ponds along with pots of brushes, rags and paints, and canvases come alive with lily portraits as bystanders look on, impressed by their efforts.

“Color sings to me. I have painted here before,” said Stuart artist Chris Kling. “I am so happy to be here again.”

Leonard Mizerek, who recently moved here from Maine, set up by the entrance pond where he captured the vibrant lilies on his canvas.

Throughout the day, rubber-booted experts sloshed through the ponds, teaching visitors how to repot waterlilies as they hoisted the soggy plants and displayed their dangling roots, reminding folks that though they may look fragile, these beauties are tough and durable.

Many headed to their cars cradling their own purchases – aquatic plants, orchids and bromeliads, obtained from vendors set up in the picturesque Spanish Kitchen.

A highlight of the event is the waterlily photo contest, judged this year by Donna Green and Tom Doyle. First place winners in the three categories were: Color, William Stewart; Black and White, Lee Benson; and Manipulated, Sarah Parker.

For more information, call 772-794-0601 or visit McKeeGarden.org.

Photos by Joshua Kodis