The Adelaide Botanic Garden and State Herbarium shine after dark in Botanica Lumina for Autumn and Winter 2020

The Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium will light up with a new program of curated after-dark events called “Botanica Lumina” including live music, art, film, historical tours and botanically inspired food tastings.

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The city’s botanical oasis will be showcased in a new light when the landscape comes to life for a festival called Botanica Lumina.

The Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium will host a program of curated after-dark events, including live music, art, film, historical tours and food tastings, until October 25.

Botanical Gardens and State Herbarium director Dr Lucy Sutherland said her team was really excited about the 2020 program.

“Just the drama of being able to light big trees and things like the wisteria arbour, being able to create that sense of wonder using light,” she said.

“It’s very much about being a contemporary botanic garden, opening up in the evenings with curated experiences and trying to make sure that connecting people with our collection and our plants in new and interesting ways.”

The wisteria arbour in vivid colour for Botanica Lumina. Picture: Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Renowned Adelaide and Sydney festivals designer Geoff Cobham has created energy-efficient and flexible lighting infrastructure using $500,000 from private donors and the State Government.

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said Adelaide’s newest night activation would provide a unique stage to host social and cultural events.

“Botanica Lumina will shine a light on South Australia, driving nature-based tourism in our State,” he said.

Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium Director Dr Lucy Sutherland at the illuminated garden display. Picture: Adelaide Botanic Gardens

“It supports the development of Adelaide as a world-leading, sustainable and liveable city, in line with the government’s Green Adelaide initiative.

“As well as creating exceptional visitor experiences, it will boost employment opportunities for local businesses and become a platform for new partnerships.

“It also moves Adelaide a step forward in its goal to becoming the world’s second National Park City, after London.”

Heritage buildings with an eerie glow at Botanica Lumina. Picture: Adelaide Botanic Gardens

The program starts Thursday March 12 and includes a Tasting Australia dinner on Friday April 3.

Visit botanic gardens.sa.gov.aufor more information.