Lightscape has returned to Kings Park and Botanic Garden this winter. Even if you’ve been in the past, this year there is a reimagined trail packed with new light installations, sure to spark your interest. The immersive experience of light and sound is a wonderful experience for both young and old – and a great idea for entertaining the grandkids in the school holidays.
The event sold out in 2023, so its a good idea to book as soon as possible if you’d like to go and keep an eye on the weather forecast, particularly if you’d like to visit on a dry winter’s night. Lightscape still goes ahead in the event of rain, so be sure to dress appropriately. We visited on a cold winter’s evening, so a jacket and beanie did the trick to keep me toasty.
They say it’s best to allow 90 minutes to enjoy the full experience. How long the trail takes, depends on your pace, and how often you might like to stop to admire the lights.
The entry is staggered in slots, the earliest being 5.30pm. Not knowing what to expect with crowds and parking, we arrived a little earlier and found that the food trucks at the entry opened about 5pm. I found parking in the main carpark fine, arriving early, on a weeknight. There are free shuttle busses available from the Elizabeth Quay bus port too, which might be advisable if you don’t want to park far away.
The entry is on May drive, near to the Naturescape attraction. We had a bite to eat of pizza and arancini before the walk. There are also Greek, waffle, Asian and burger trucks there, plus a bar serving mulled wine and more.
We entered in the first timeslot of 5.30pm. The first 10 minutes or so, a little twilight still lingered, but we soon enjoyed the darkness.
The one way trail though the park is easy to navigate. Most people can manage it, though there are a few up and downhills. There are several toilet stops along the trail, and about a third of the way around there is a prosecco cart and a free water stand.
The 2km pathway winds through the botanic gardens, showing them in a wonderful glow. Wander amongst rainbow trees, and indigenous art.
There’s a tunnel of hearts and lots more – I don’t want to spoil it!
And the grand finale – the spectacular Winter Cathedral with thousands of brilliantly bright lights. Definitely worthy of a selfie!
There is a box office at the gate, though I’d recommend booking online, as some nights sell out in advance. Lightscape is on Wednesday to Sunday, now until Friday 28 July. Be sure to see Kings Park in a whole new light.
Get more info on their website.
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