The 33rd annual Lotus Festival at Echo Park Lake is sure to be memorable because it will be the last at the lake for probably two years as the lake is repaired.

The splendor of previous years has diminished with the health of Echo Park Lake,  along with the lotus.

But the spirit of the lotus lives - learn more about the neighborhood's Asian and Pacific Islander American communities' cultures through art, music, dance and food.

Saturday, July 9, from noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday, July 10, from noon to 8 p.m. at the Echo Park Lake (between Glendale and Echo Park Ave, just north of the 101 freeway). This year, the Festival will highlight the people and cultures of Thailand with the support of the Royal Thai Consulate General Los Angeles.

The Health Fair will feature educational lectures on holistic fitness. Other services to be provided include: free screenings, health information and referrals. The Community Services 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 Boutiques 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. The International Food Booth area will provide a variety of Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine that will feature enticing delicacies and exotic beverages which are traditional to the Asian and Pacific Island Cultures.