West Michigan’s newest holiday attraction, ENLIGHTEN, is set to enchant visitors at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Starting tomorrow, the event will showcase a one-mile path illuminated with thousands of lights and synchronized music, according to WOOD TV. Designed for all ages, the experience transforms the gardens into a magical, otherworldly landscape. Senior Vice President Steve LaWarre noted, "Everyone that has seen it so far has been gobsmacked."
The event, created through a collaboration with entertainment teams like LightSwitch and Upstaging, who have worked with renowned artists such as Hans Zimmer and Paul McCartney, features 14 stops along the route. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from a festive beer garden to an interactive "winter waterfall" show. The exhibit was previewed for media, staff, volunteers, and donors ahead of its public debut, with MLive detailing the effort behind its creation. John VanderHaagen, communications director for Meijer Gardens, expressed excitement about bringing the event to life after much anticipation.
Running from tomorrow through January 4, the display is a separate ticketed event from general admission, with pricing options and group discounts available, as reported by MLive. The exhibition complements the University of Michigan's Christmas and holiday traditions, adding to the festive season. Tickets for timed entry can be purchased through the Meijer Gardens website.
As visitors stroll along the pathway, they will encounter a variety of interactive installations, such as "Dance of Butterflies," where guests can play butterfly instruments amidst six-foot glowing dandelions, and the mesmerizing "Shadowplay," where silhouettes come to life, adding to the sensory experience of the holiday lights. As pointed out by Grand Rapids resident Matthew Walker in a statement obtained by MLive, who lauded, "It was great. It was awesome." He added, "We loved dancing in the shadows. There’s so much to see and interact with," rounding off a festive experience punctuated by seasonal food, beverages, fire pits, and family-friendly activities.
