Illuminate Adelaide 2025: Your ultimate guide to the city’s dazzling winter festival
Hundreds of drones over Adelaide Oval, a dance party in 10 minutes, dinosaurs roaming the Zoo, a Dutch digital detox, and an all-new 12-hour music festival. These are just some of the surprises in store when winter gets a whole lot brighter this July for Illuminate Adelaide!
With nine world premieres, over 40 free installations, and 134 incredible opportunities for audiences to experience light, art, music, food and technology, it’s hard to know where to begin.
Never fear, we’ve created the ultimate Illuminate itinerary to ensure your winter gets a whole lot brighter. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s your guide to making the most of each weekend during this electrifying event.
Weekend #1 | July 4–6: parallel worlds, glowing angels, and a phone-free oasis
Night Visions at Adelaide Botanic Garden
Step into a realm where nature meets technology in the most enchanting way. Night Visions is an exclusive after-dark experience that reimagines the Adelaide Botanic Garden into a sensory journey of light, lasers, projections, and sound. Wander through this transformed landscape and discover hidden corners illuminated by cutting-edge immersive technology. It’s a must-see spectacle that promises to be both magical and mesmerising.
Illuminate @ Adelaide Central Market
You might like
The iconic Adelaide Central Market comes alight with late-night trading and roving performances from the Illuminated Angels by Melbourne’s Born in a Taxi. Stroll through the vibrant market stalls, enjoy delicious food, and be captivated by the ethereal performances that add a touch of magic to your evening.
Sunday Long Lunch at Papershell Farm from The Offline Club
Unplug from the digital world and indulge in a screen-free Sunday long lunch at Papershell Farm in Willunga South. Hosted by former Empire of the Sun band member Surahn Sidhu and facilitated by Amsterdam champions of digital detoxing The Offline Club, this phone-free experience offers live performances, delicious food, and a chance to reconnect with nature and fellow diners.
Weekend #2 | July 11–13: dinosaurs, forest feasts, and city lights
Universal Kingdom: The Next Era at Adelaide Zoo
Gather the family and travel back in time to witness dinosaurs roaming free at Adelaide Zoo after dark. From the mighty Triceratops to the towering Tyrannosaurus Rex, experience state-of-the-art puppetry, stunning light installations, and interactive moments that bring the prehistoric world to life.
Winter Forest – An Immersive Dining Experience
Looking for a unique dining experience during your visit to the city? Embark on a culinary journey like no other at Winter Forest, part of the ILA Immersive Table series. Set in a forest of light and shadow created by immersive surround LED screens, this tranquil offering weaves together flavours and visuals to create a feast for all the senses.
City Lights & FierS à Cheval
The free City Lights program is brightening up North Terrace and Rundle Street with interactive installations and projections. Don’t miss the exclusive roving performance FierS à Cheval by Compagnie des Quidams, featuring majestic illuminated horses that add a touch of fantasy to your evening.
Weekend #3 | July 18–20: drones, dancing, and beats to close out Illuminate with a bang!
Horizons at Adelaide Oval
Cap off the festival Friday with Horizons, a world-premiere drone and light performance at Adelaide Oval. Experience a breathtaking display of technology and artistry as the sky above the iconic stadium comes alive with hundreds of drones and stunning visuals.
Supersonic – A Night of Music, Art & Film
Dive into the heart of the West End for Supersonic, a brand-new festival that fuses music, art, and film into an unforgettable night. Running Saturday night until early Sunday morning, choose your own adventure across seven iconic venues, featuring everything from techno DJs to surrealist digital art and interpretive dance.
Base Camp – Food, Fire & Dance
Revisit the transformed Lot Fourteen to enjoy Base Camp, the city’s favourite free pop-up winter village. Brimming with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and cozy firepits, Base Camp showcases the best Adelaide has to offer. Be sure to visit 10 MINUTE DANCE PARTIES during your visit for the fastest rave you’ve ever had to end Illuminate Adelaide dancing the night away.
Tips for the Ultimate Illuminate Experience
- Plan Ahead: Some events are ticketed and may sell out quickly. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Dress Warmly: Adelaide’s winter nights can be chilly. Layer up to stay comfortable while exploring the outdoor installations.
- Stay Energised: With so much to see and do, you’ll need fuel. Visit Base Camp or one of the Illuminate Hosts venues to enjoy delicious food and drinks.
- Share the Magic: Don’t forget your camera! The installations are Instagram-worthy, and you’ll want to capture the memories.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Illuminate Adelaide website.
