Get excited for Lightscape, which has returned to Kings Park and Botanic Garden to light up winter nights in the city. This year, there’s a reimagined trail packed with new installations. The immersive experience of light and sound is fantastic for young and old. Take a wander down the 2km pathway amongst rainbow trees, through a tunnel of hearts, past flames, indigenous art and the grand finale – the spectacular Winter Cathedral.
The event sold out in 2023, so I’d suggest to book as soon as possible, particularly if you’d like to visit on a dry winter’s night. There is a box office at the gate, though I’d recommend booking online. Lightscape will go ahead in the event of rain, so be sure to dress appropriately. We visited on a chilly winter’s night, so a jacket and beanie did the trick. Entry is just near the Yorkas Nyinning building, which is not far from the main carpark.
Prams/strollers are welcome. The entry is staggered in slots, the earliest being 5.30pm. No 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.
There’s a good range of food trucks, and a bar with mulled wine, cocktails and more. We grabbed a bit to eat from the New York style pizza food truck.
My son enjoyed the peperoni Pizza and I love the crisp arancini (GF). There’s plenty of seating too.
How long the trail takes you depends on your pace, and how often you might like to stop and admire the lights. On average, it’s best to allow 90 minutes to enjoy the full experience.
There’s dreamtime inspired sections, with stunning colours lighting up the towering gum trees.
Some light displays are inspired by a more modern time, complete with pop soundtrack.
There are several toilet stops along the trail, and about a third of the way around there is a prosecco cart and water stand. Cheers to that.
And be sure to grab a selfie in the beautiful Winter Cathedral, surrounded by thousands of lights.
I grabbed a hot chocolate for the drive home – what a lovely night!
Lightscape Kings Park 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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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life” has enjoyed an exciting name change in 2021, as “The Chef’s Ex-wife” embarks on new adventures with Simply PERTHfect. Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA, as well as brunching, tapas or something a little fancy in equal measures. With her son “Little Chef” in tow, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
