On 9th November, the UW Botanic Garden has once again been transformed into a land of light. The illumination exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the magic of the four elements: fire, water, air and earth. This year, visitors to the Garden of Lights will be treated to both new constructions and familiar illuminations, as well as a family outdoor game. The exhibition will be open until 16th February.

The University of Warsaw and Lumagica, the international creator of gardens of light, have prepared the MagicznyBotaniczny (MagicalBotanical) exhibition inspired by the world of plants and animals for the fourth time.

 

Throughout autumn and winter, a magical version of the story of the four elements, which was launched last year, will await visitors. A brand new fairytale gate will lead them to the world of magic. In the evening, they will be able to meet Flora, the goddess of blossoming nature. In the underwater world, visitors will be amazed by an almost three-metre-long fish, in the fire zone a giant bonfire will be “lit”, bats will be on the lookout in the air and cute bears on the ground. The premiere attractions will stand next to well-known installations, creating a route of almost 40 light stops.

 

“At the UW Botanic Garden, we not only showcase plants, but also the bond we have with the natural world. In planning our activities, we want to raise awareness of the importance of nature conservation in all its immeasurable richness. We hope that the MagicalBotanical exhibition will not only enthuse our visitors with light, but also make them reflect on the role of nature in our lives. When many plants and animals are getting ready for their winter sleep, we want to keep reminding the visitors that we are part of a greater whole that we need to protect for future generations,” Prof. Marcin Zych, director of the UW Botanic Garden emphasised.

 

A walk with adventures

This season, the organisers have also prepared a family outdoor game. The entire garden has become a game board full of riddles and surprises. Visitors will be able to play the role of explorers, solving puzzles that turn an ordinary walk into an adventurous journey among the elements.

 

“We want every visit to the Garden of Lights to be an unforgettable experience that connects generations and awakens joy in the hearts of children and adults. We are delighted to be able to light up autumn and winter evenings with a blaze of light and happiness for the residents of Warsaw. Last season, more than 90,000 people visited us. We would like to thank you for your trust and promise to continue sharing the magic,” Marzena Seweryniak, Lumagica project manager in Poland, said.

 

The exhibition is on show at the UW Botanic Garden (Al. Ujazdowskie 4) until 16th February, throughout the week (except Tuesdays).

 

Due to the protected and animal poisonous plant species growing in the Garden, dogs and cats are not allowed in the exhibition area. Children should be accompanied by adults.

 

Tickets can be purchased online at https://lumagica.pl/ or at the UW Botanic Garden box office during exhibition opening hours.

 

UW students, doctoral candidates and employees, as well as children under the age of 5, can enter the exhibition free of charge. Codes allowing free entry for those affiliated with the University are available on the My UW Account portal.

The exhibition was built using energy-efficient LED lighting, so energy consumption is minimal – similar to that of a lift in a block of flats.

 

Proceeds from ticket sales for the event will help heat the Garden’s greenhouse plant collections, which can also be enjoyed in winter.