Photographs give the first glimpse of an enchanting winter lantern experience.
Wakehurst is gearing up for the launch of its tenth anniversary Glow Wild trail which promises even more awe-inspiring installations to mark the milestone when it opens to the public on November 23.
The festivities began today at the botanic gardens in Haywards Heath with the lighting of the botanic garden’s 37m tree, the UK’s tallest living Christmas tree, with 1,800 energy-saving lightbulbs.
This year’s theme invites visitors to reflect on the incredible moments in the natural world – from epic examples of wildlife to delicate details of plants and fungi.
More than 1,000 lanterns for the trail have been handmade by volunteers and community groups.
The tenth anniversary mile-long trail has eight new bespoke installations from leading artists.
Highlights include one of the UK’s largest outdoor art installations, Planet Wakehurst by Catherine Nelson, which has been brought to life through a series of mesmerising projections created by Colour Project.
Another is a giant illuminated whale with a 3m high tail by OGE Group, crafted in collaboration with metalwork apprentices from the Camelia Botnar Foundation.
And guests can see a stunning sea of stars and epic thunder clouds from lantern experts Same Sky.
This year offers a new interactive experience with Wakehurst’s Starkeeper from Long Nose Puppets.
Visitors have been invited to make a wish on a star to hang in the sky forest before they continue their journey.
Another highlight is giant peacock Percy who give will give guests a glowing welcome.
New to Glow Wild this year will be pop-up food and drink stalls throughout the trail offering stopping points to admire installations.
Crackling fire pits located close to the Starkeeper form the perfect spot for toasting marshmallows, while "festive grab and go" options can be found under the Christmas tree.
Quiet sessions are available every night at 4.15pm, while relaxed sessions offer gentle performances adapted especially for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Adult-only slots will run each Friday at 8pm.
In recognition of the strains faced by many during the ongoing cost of living crisis, Wakehurst has released "accessible priced" tickets from £11.50 for the opening week of Glow Wild and hopes this, combined with its free tickets for under four-year-olds, helps families as they prepare for the festive season.
A new flexible ticket offer allows bookers to swap or upgrade tickets up to 72 hours before their visit – available for new and existing bookings.
Glow Wild can be seen on selected evenings from Thursday, November 23 to Monday, January 1.
Entry slots are available between 4.30pm and 8.20pm. Tickets are from £15.50 adult/£12 child.
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