Spring Light Events at Perth Zoo

For each of the last four years, Perth Zoo has hosted a special spring event, including a range of magical light displays, roving entertainment, acoustic music and the opportunity to visit the Zoo after dark. These magical experiences have grown into the zoo’s largest annual event, breaking attendance records year after year and captivating visitors with its dazzling displays and immersive atmosphere.

Perth Zoo sought to create visually immersive events that would increase visitation during the spring school holiday period. The outdoor nature of the events meant that the displays needed to be suitable for the potentially unpredictable spring weather and be safe for the visiting public.

In partnership with Dec the Malls, a carefully curated collection of animal themed displays was selected for each event. The displays have included large scale light sculptures, custom-made silk lanterns and strategically placed up-lighting throughout the gardens.

Each display was designed to be weather and UV resistant to ensure maximum visual appeal throughout the events. In addition, with public safety paramount, all installations had engineering certification and were maintained continuously during the event period.

Working together, we’ve been able to improve display placements within the Perth Zoo grounds and reduce the installation times each successive year. The 2024 edition of the event, Lights Alive, was extended for an additional two weeks due to high demand.

Event Features

Each year, the zoo’s picturesque grounds have been transformed by an array of visually immersive and strategically placed light installations. Key features of the event include:

• Animal Light Sculptures: These stunning, large-scale installations have included a 7m long snake, 4m tall kangaroo and, Western Australia’s state animal, the 3m tall numbat.
• Custom Silk Lanterns: In 2023, Perth Zoo celebrated its 125^th anniversary and to mark the occasion a range of custom-designed lanterns were created. Examples included a bespoke entry statement, marine turtle, tree frog and pelican.
• Soundscapes and Up-Lighting: To deepen the immersive experience, soundscapes triggered by movement have been incorporated into many of the installations, with visitors greeted with lifelike sounds of the featured animals. The zoo’s gardens have also been enhanced with strategically placed up-lighting and fairy lights, creating a magical ambiance and guiding visitors through the exhibits after dark.

Perth Zoo’s annual spring lighting exhibits have become highly anticipated events, combining stunning visuals, soundscapes, and artful design to create a truly immersive experience. The success of the event speaks to the strong working relationship that has developed between Perth Zoo and Dec the Malls, as well as the zoo’s commitment to offering new and innovative ways for visitors to engage with wildlife and their surroundings.

Photos of Possums and Owl courtesy of Perth Zoo