Hymenocallis coronaria is the proper name for the plant commonly referred to as the Cahaba Lily. In some areas such as South Carolina and Georgia, the plant is referred to as the Shoals Lily. The plant grows in rivers across the southeast United States. Current populations exist in South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. The flowers bloom between early May and late June. The flowers usually open late in the day and begin to wither the next day. In most cases only one flower will open each day. The seeds take shelter in the crevices of rocks found in swift-moving currents.

Each year the program begins in the morning (roughly 9 am) with indoor presentations by various nature/wildflower groups. Botanist Larry Davenport, an expert on the lilies, presents an informative presentation about the lilies. Lunch is served just before attendees go to the river for viewing the lilies. Later in the afternoon, The Cahaba Lily Center hosts a Story Telling event and dulcimer concert.

There is no registration fee for the Cahaba Lily Festival. Donations are accepted to cover the cost of the lunch. The Cahaba River Society offers $20 canoe rentals for those interested in canoeing among the lilies. The canoes are available between 1 and 3 pm on a first-come basis. T-shirts, caps, artwork and various nature-related crafts will also be available from attending vendors for those interested.