ALL-NEW ILLUMINATE

A Festival of Lights, Lanterns & Wonder at Aquatica Orlando

Step into a nighttime festival that transforms Aquatica into a luminous world of wonder. Guests will journey through five radiant realms, each fully immersive with brilliant lantern displays, dynamic sounds, captivating scents, and themed food & beverage that bring each realm to life. From shimmering seascapes to playful candy-inspired creations, every step reveals something new to explore, taste, and share.

Please note: Illuminate features glowing lanterns and illuminated pathways that transform the park after dark. Slides, pools, and waterways will not be open during this experience.

Illuminate is a separately ticketed event. Family friendly event for all ages. Event details and offerings subject to change and/or cancellation without prior notice.

Select Nights

Default error message

Five Realms to Explore

AquaLuma

Legend tells of five animal guardians who first brought light to the waters: Roa the Kiwi, Papa the Spoonbill, Wae Wae the Takahe, Kata the Kookaburra, and Ihu the Gecko. Their glowing footprints, laughter, and starlight guide explorers through arches of shimmer and radiant wildlife that still shine today.

Candy Cascade Falls

Indulge your senses in a candy-colored dreamland where gumdrops sparkle, lollipops tower over 20 feet tall, and the air is sweet with sugary scents. This vibrant wonderland invites families to play, pose, and interact with whimsical glowing treats.

Enchanted Lagoon

Said to be born of a pearl that fell from the moon, this mystical cove is home to a luminous mermaid who keeps watch over the dreams and wishes cast into her waters. Guests may even catch a glimpse of her sea unicorn companion under a crescent moon.

Myst Wood Waters

Explore a rainforest brought to life with light, sound, and scent. Wander beneath cascading raindrop lanterns and towering green-lit trees as the calls of the wild surround you. Along the path, encounter radiant macaws, dragonflies, and lizards, all guiding you toward a glowing archway that welcomes you into nature’s illuminated sanctuary.

Rivers of Discovery

A glowing tribute to the animals that inspire and the parks that protect like SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Discovery Cove — this lantern-lit safari celebrates connection, care, and curiosity. Wander among radiant safari lanterns showcasing majestic animals, or climb aboard a whimsical train ride that winds through shimmering savannah scenes. It’s a journey of wonder and wildlife designed for explorers of every age.

Festival Pathway

The heart of Illuminate comes alive along the Festival Pathway. Stroll beneath glowing lights and discover a trail of culinary delights, festive cocktails, and themed bars. Cozy up by a crackling campfire with s’mores, sip seasonal spirits at Christmas and New Year’s themed bars, and capture unforgettable memories at dazzling photo ops—including a cheerful meet & greet with our tropical-inspired Santa.