ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens – A Winter Wonderland of Art, Light & Nature

Light, Art & Wonder: What ENLIGHTEN Brings to Life

Returning for a second year, the grounds of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids transform into something utterly magical: welcome to ENLIGHTEN, an immersive event where art, nature and technology blend in dazzling harmony. Running on select evenings from November 24, 2025 to January 3, 2026, the event offers an unforgettable sensory journey. 

Guests enter after dusk and follow a one-mile outdoor pathway. Along the way they’ll encounter brilliant light shows, interactive installations, world-renowned sculptures bathed in color and synchronized music underscoring the entire experience. 

What makes ENLIGHTEN especially compelling:

• Legendary artworks by artists like Henry Moore, Auguste Rodin, Ai Weiwei, Mark di Suvero and more are re-imagined through light — for example the monumental “The American Horse” by Nina Akamu is a stunning anchor piece.
  
  
• It’s the work of top-tier immersive event producers, ensuring lighting, music and spatial experience are truly next level.
  
  
• The experience goes beyond “just lights”: fire pits, warming tents, interactive elements (you influence the light or sound), and festive concessions make it a fully-fledged night out.
  
  

Why You Should Go

ENLIGHTEN is designed to appeal to all ages. The walk is manageable (~1 mile), pathways are accessible, and the ambiance is festive and inclusive. 

You’ll see masterpieces you know from art history, but in a fresh new context: outdoor sculpture under lights, glowing gardens, laser-waterfalls and more. Nature becomes the canvas.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Buy tickets early. Nights can sell out, and entry is timed to manage flow. Tickets go on sale in advance — grab your preferred slot. 
  
  
• Dress for winter. The path is outdoors. Bundle up, wear warm layers and comfortable shoes. Weather doesn’t stop the show. 
  
  
• Arrive a little early. The “beer garden” and entry area open before the main light path begins; getting there a little ahead gives you time to settle in and enjoy the ambiance. 
  
  
• Bring your phone/camera. There are plenty of photo-worthy moments. Tag @MeijerGardens and use #MeijerGardens to share your shots! 
  
  
• Know the length & pace. At a gentle walk you can complete the experience in about 1 to 1½ hours.
  
  
• Accessibility is handled. Wheelchairs and strollers are permitted; pathways are accessible. 
  
  

What’s New for 2025

This year’s edition elevates the experience further:

• Enhanced lighting choreography, new interactive elements and expanded immersive zones.
  
  
• Expanded food, beverage and comfort offerings including more restrooms, refreshed beer-garden style entry, and even a warming tent. 
  
  
• The incorporation of additional sculptural and water features along the path, making the journey even more dynamic.
  
  

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to light up the winter months with something special, ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens is more than just a walk through lights — it's an art-infused night out that blends visual spectacle, nature, and festive charm. Whether you’re snapping photos, cozying up by a fire pit, or exploring the magical interplay of sculpture and light, this event promises memories that last long after the night ends. Reserve your spot, bundle up, and get ready to be illuminated.