Montreal’s Gardens Of Light Show Feels Like Stepping Into A Fairytale (PHOTOS)

Strolling through the Montreal Botanical Gardens is like stepping into a fantasy world: the paths are winding, the colors are vibrant and the illuminated decor is magical. The Gardens of Light Show is more spectacular than ever this year with added interactive and storytelling elements to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

Visitors are greeted by a strange howling symphony emanating from a grove of trees near the entrance. The Wolf’s Chorus installation consists of a series of glowing orbs that participants can speak, sing or bark into, and hear what sounds like hilarious comebacks from a pack of ghostly canines. The din is punctuated by a colorful play of lights that stretches to the treetops as the concert grows louder and more intense. Watching the children marvel as they hear their voices echoing in wolf language is just as entertaining as taking part in the installation yourself.

People stand in front of glowing spheres surrounded by illuminated trees.@davidwallyrawalia | Instagram

The nearby Japanese Pavilion features vivid projections of various elements of Nippon art and culture. A soothing glow illuminates the bonsai trees in front and the cascading water behind. The whole point here is to relax and enjoy nature as the lights slowly fade from one color to another.

Projections on the facade of the Japanese Pavilion.@davidwallyrawalia | Instagram

In the First Nations Garden, a glowing arch emits a dense mist. As the light is diffused it creates a luminous aura around the structure and the effect is spectacular. The diffused lighting makes for an amazing selfie.

An archway emits fog.@davidwallyrawalia | Instagram

As you venture through the forest trails, lights and sounds come from all directions, transforming the natural surroundings into another world. Magical murmurs make it seem like the trees are talking to each other, making the experience incredibly immersive.

Illuminated bird cages line a forest path.@davidwallyrawalia | Instagram

While the hundreds of traditional colorful lanterns are back, the Chinese Garden has a new twist. The “Lake of Dreams” offers the largest and most impressive exhibition around Pangu. According to Chinese legend, the mythical being is the creator of the universe.

This year’s exhibition adds an amazing multimedia retelling of the founding myth, complete with water projections, lasers and smoke machines. It’s an experience you’ll want to do more than once as there is so much to experience.

@davidwallyrawalia | Instagram

If you’re wondering when to venture to the Gardens of Light, a mid-week or cloudy day visit is highly recommended. Not only will you have more space to enjoy each installation, but rain glitters on leaves and reflects off sidewalks, which can add an ethereal glow to the entire experience.