When does The Illuminated Gardens take place?

The event runs from November 26, 2026 to January 17, 2027. On December 4, 2026, visits are possible from 5 PM to 10 PM.

How much does admission cost?

Admission starts on weekdays at 15 euros per ticket. Children’s tickets are available from 9 euros; prices may vary depending on the date.

How long does the walk take?

The round path is about one kilometer long. Depending on walking pace and duration of stay, approximately 40 to 80 minutes should be planned for the visit.

How does admission work?

Admission is via a booked time slot. Visitors should appear at the entrance ten minutes before their time slot starts.

Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?

The gravel main paths are mostly paved and accessible for wheelchair users. Access may be limited depending on weather and ground conditions; a wheelchair-accessible toilet cabin is available.

Is photography allowed during the walk?

Photography for private purposes is allowed. The use of drones is prohibited throughout the event area.

The Illuminated Gardens: Light Art and Winter Magic in the Historical Benrath Palace Park

Name: The Illuminated Gardens
Start: 2026-12-04T17:00:00+01:00
End: 2026-12-04T22:00:00+01:00
Location: Park Schloss Benrath

The Illuminated Gardens: When Benrath Palace Blooms in Light

From November 26, 2026 to January 17, 2027, the historic park of Benrath Palace in Düsseldorf transforms into an artistically illuminated experience world. The illuminated gardens combine garden art, light design, and a winter art experience into an atmospheric walk for families, friends, and culture enthusiasts.

Light Art among Old Tree Canopies

With the onset of darkness, glowing pathways, colorful light installations, and illuminated figures unfold in the Schillergarten and the English Garden. The historic park architecture forms an impressive backdrop for an interplay of light, shadow, spatial effect, and nature. Each section of the round path opens new perspectives on the garden area and makes the nocturnal landscape an aesthetic experience.

A Winter Art Experience in the Palace Park

The event leads along a route of about one kilometer through the palace gardens. Depending on walking pace and duration of stay at individual stations, the walk takes approximately 40 to 80 minutes. The staging creates a special exhibition atmosphere: tree canopies become projection surfaces, paths transform into glowing axes, and familiar garden spaces appear in a poetic, almost fairy-tale color drama.

Historical Garden Art Viewed Anew

Benrath Palace is one of Düsseldorf's significant historical sites. The light staging draws attention to forms, sight lines, and atmospheric qualities of the park and combines cultural education with sensual contemplation of works in public space. Instead of a classic exhibition indoors, visitors experience a walkable installation where landscape, architecture, and light art merge.

Planning, Admission, and Visit

The illuminated gardens are regularly open from Wednesday to Sunday from 5 PM to 10 PM. From December 21, 2026 to January 10, 2027, the event additionally opens on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is via a booked time slot; visitors should arrive at the entrance ten minutes prior to the start. Tickets are only available online; there is no ticket booth.

For families with younger children, the organizer recommends early time slots. The gravel main paths are mostly paved and accessible for wheelchair users, although accessibility may be weather-dependent. A wheelchair-accessible toilet cabin is available on site.

Conclusion: Light, Landscape, and Cultural Discovery

The illuminated gardens promise a charming art experience that combines historical garden art with modern light design. Those who want to experience Benrath Palace from a completely new perspective will discover a poetic winter landscape full of colors, shapes, and quiet surprises. A visit is especially worthwhile in the early evening hours when twilight gradually transitions into the glow of the gardens.