Every December, the VanDusen Botanical garden lights up into a dazzling spectacle of luminous lights.

It is one of Vancouver’s most anticipated events every Christmas holidays. But is this festival worth the hype and the ticket price? Let’s illuminate the facts.

 

What are the various light displays in Festival of Lights?

The Festival of Lights in VanDusen is renowned for its stunning and diverse light displays. Each year, the luminous attraction features a various themes and designs. Here are some types of light displays that are typically featured:

 

The Beloved Dancing Lights

This is the festival’s main attraction that is located near the entrance. The lights dances when the music starts to play, illumination synchronizes with the rhythm and melody, creating a dynamic visual and entertaining experience. The dancing light show last for about eight to ten minutes.

 

 

Some displays near this attraction are interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the lights. It change color when touched or that react to movement.

 

 

Various Light Tunnels (Tunnels of Lights)

Another popular attraction is the Tunnel of lights, it features a tunnel illuminated with lights where visitors can walk through and take a selfie with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical Instagram moment or should we say “IG” moment.

 

 

Illuminated Rose Garden

Another spectacle is the Illuminated Rose Garden, it’s a fairy tale setting where the roses are artfully illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights creating a mesmerizing and enchanting space.

 

 

This season, the attraction added a pink Christmas tree in the middle to blend with the pink and white roses casting in the garden.

 

Various Seasonal and Holiday Themes

Other light attractions feature overhead lights that mimic a starry night sky, projection mapping that involves light projections onto buildings and trees with changing colors and patterns.

 

 

In the central part of the garden features an illuminated sculptures that range from abstract pieces to more recognizable shapes like animals, butterflies, flowers that are all made from lights.

 

 

Inspired by traditional lantern festivals, these displays feature a variety of intricate designs and vibrant colors.

 

Expect to see seasonal and holiday motifs such as displays from popular shapes of Christmas trees, snowflakes, reindeer, and other holiday-themed icons that can be found near the candy cane lane.

 

 

Light Pathways

The pathways throughout the garden are illuminated with various lights, guiding visitors and adding to the overall enchantment of the environment.

 

 

The attraction uses energy-efficient LED lights that promotes eco-friendly practices demonstrating a responsible approach to celebrating the festive season.

 

Each year, the festival aims to surprise and delight its visitors with innovative light displays that continue to dazzle our Vancouver holidays. Making it a fresh experience even for locals and tourists. The combination of artistic creativity and technological innovation makes the VanDusen Festival of Lights a must-see event before the year ends.

 

How much does the ticket cost?

Admission prices vary, but generally, adults pay around $24. Check out the table below for the admission rates.

 

Age Category	Rates
Adults (ages 19 to 64)	$24.00
Seniors (ages 65+)	$16.50
Youth (13 to 18 years)	$16.50
Children (5 to 12 years)	$11.00

 

If you’re a member with a valid card, the admission fee is cheaper and will be around $16.25. Admission is free for children ages 4 and under. To find out more, visit the City of Vancouver’s website.

 

Are there any Restaurants or Food Booths in the Attraction?

The shops may vary every year, as it largely depends on specific vendors who’ll want to participate. However, there are some food booths that are popular and now regulars of the attraction.

 

Hot Chocolate Booths

These are usually a hit, especially on cold nights. Booths offering hot chocolate with various toppings and flavor options often attract long lines specifically in the light pathways.

 

Gourmet Popcorn

The popcorn comes with a range of flavors from classic butter to caramel or cheese, The popcorn stands are typically located near the entrance.

 

Churros and Mini Donuts

Festival of lights will be boring without sweet treats! Churros or mini donuts are a hit and visitors loved it every year. They often served it with a variety of dipping sauces.

 

Final Thoughts

Considering its visual appeal, family-friendliness, and 1 million lights spread out the gardens, the VanDusen Festival of Lights is undoubtedly worth it.

 

 

It attracts over 100,000 visitors every holiday season. It’s one of the holiday events you will surely not miss, so bundle up and visit the attraction this December.