The popular Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens returns this month with a new trail, immersive displays, and a mix of returning favourites and fresh artistic talent.
The gardens overcame a setback last year when £80,000 worth of electrical cables were stolen, threatening the event’s opening. However, the team pulled together and the show opened, with great response from those attending.
Light Up at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey (Image: Light Up Trails)
This year, Libby Battaglia and Lucinda Croft, co-directors of Light Up Trails, said the event was back, bigger and better than ever.
Libby said: “There are more lights than ever and our new trail will take visitors on a different journey through the gardens with more immersive moments and even more enchanting installations.”
The trail runs from November 27 to January 3 and features a reimagined route, expanded themed zones, and a blend of established and emerging light artists.
A highlight of this year’s event is the return of Belgian artist Bobolito&Co, who will present an updated version of the internationally acclaimed Rhizome installation—a light and sound sculpture inspired by the hidden networks of nature.
The artist said: “The idea is that it really comes to life at night and feels like you’re seeing these hidden plant networks made visible in a really magical way.
“It has evolved in a really fresh way at Hillier Gardens. We’ve added mirrors into the installation, so you get these extra layers of reflection and shadow.
“It’s like a celebratory edition that brings even more vibrancy and depth.”
Light Up at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey (Image: Light Up Trails)
Also making its debut is Bright Side Studios, an Edinburgh-based team specialising in projection mapping and immersive design.
Their new installation, Seasons Of Light, uses animation, 3D effects, and filmic techniques to create a holographic journey through the changing seasons.
Cristina Spiteri of Bright Side Studios said: “We create illusionary animations within an environment so what the audience will see are the flowers and animals brought into the gardens suspended in the space.
“The magic is built up with a mixture of animation, 3D and filmic effects layered up, so the light and the animals guide us through the seasons from Spring up to Christmas.”
The display is projected onto a giant scrim screen with the tree line illuminated behind to complete the effect.
Lucinda, co-director, said: “Bright Side Studios brings a fresh perspective and uniquely creative innovation—we’re really excited to be working with them.
“Seasons of Light will be a genuinely breathtaking shared moment for our visitors to complete the physical and emotional journey through this year’s Light Up Sir Harold Hiller Gardens.”
Tickets are available now at lightuptrails.com. Tickets from £12.50 child, £20 adult, £61 family. Free parking with entrance ticket.
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