As the 2023 evenings grow longer, winter sets in, and Christmas is around the corner, China Light Festival once again presents various wonderful light festival across Europe. For example, in Paris, the historic Jardin des Plantes lights up in a ‘Jungle of Illumination’ theme, while Planckendael Zoo in Mechelen invites visitors to enter a fantasy realm filled with Dragons and Unicorns.
Paris: A tropical light jungle
In the heart of the city of light, the Jardin des Plantes is transformed into an even more enchanting and exotic light spectacle. This year’s theme, ‘Jungle en Voie d’Illumination’, welcomes visitors to participate in a nocturnal journey through a magical world of illuminated animals and plants. Epic light sculptures of rare animals and exotic flora bring the Jardin des Plantes even more alive as a tropical paradise. It offers a spectacular experience, captivating the old, the young, and everyone in between.
Plants and animals in the exhibition
The exhibition covers a lot of ground and exhibits plant and animal species from across the globe. You can find, among other fauna, the Atlas Moth or Flying Cobra, the poison dart frog and the okapi. Among the flora, you can spot trumpet trees, the Rafflesia Arnoldii – the world’s largest flower, which inspired the Pokémon design for Vileplume – and a combination of the orchid mantis and the butterfly orchid, blending splendidly through mimicry with its white and pink colors. The exhibition offers a captivating glimpse into the rich diversity of plant and animal life from around the world, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Mechelen: Dragons and unicorns light up the night
Not too far away from the bustling city of Antwerp and Brussels, Mechelen is home to the Planckendael Zoo, which is opening its gates for another breathtaking light festival. The dragons and unicorns theme invites guests to step into a mythical fantasy world, where fantastical creatures from legends and fairytales illuminate the paths. The beautifully lit sculptures of unicorns, dragons and other magical beasts create a unique and dreamlike atmosphere. This is perfect for a romantic date or an outing with family or friends.
Feast for the senses
Both light festivals are more than just visual splendor; they’re a celebration for all of your senses. In the jungle city, visitors can enjoy warm beverages and French delicacies as they wander about the illuminated paths of the Jardin des Plantes. At the Planckendael Zoo, fragrant winter treats and cozy sounds of both the festival and animal inhabitants create a warm, living and breathing, and inviting atmosphere.
Importance of the message
These light festivals are not just special for their beauty, but also for their message. They emphasize the importance of both conservation and biodiversity. The illuminated animals in Paris represent species from around the globe, some endangered, some even completely extinct. They remind us of the beauty and vulnerability of our planet, whereas Mechelen’s festival offers a magical yet educational experience about mythical creatures and their place in our culture and history. Even more so, China Lighting Festival is capable of customizing lanterns for any theme of light. They showcase that anything is possible when it comes to illuminating our world, regardless of theme or underlying message.
An invitation for wandering and wondering
Whether exploring the romantic streets of Paris or experiencing the historic charm of Mechelen is more your speed, these light festivals are an invitation to wonder. While wandering about, they remind us that, even in the darkest of times, light and beauty can always be found. During this winter season, roam about and undertake the journey through these magical festivals. Allow yourself to be enchanted by their light and color and experience ultimate illuminated awe.
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