The much-anticipated Glow Wild event is set to illuminate the Sussex countryside once again this winter season, promising its most expansive display to date.
The beloved after-dark experience at Kew Wakehurst, situated close to Haywards Heath, will operate on selected evenings between late November 2026 and early January 2027, inviting guests to wander through a landscape transformed by luminous installations, lanterns and creative artworks.
Marking its thirteenth edition, Glow Wild will showcase an extraordinary collection exceeding 2,000 handcrafted lanterns alongside large-scale artistic pieces.
Among these stands a remarkable iceberg lantern reaching nearly five metres in height, representing the tallest structure the event has ever featured.
The production team described the occasion as an opportunity to encounter the natural world on an extraordinary scale.
The seasonal pathway draws influence from the spirit of scientific exploration that drives Kew’s researchers, whose investigations assist in comprehending the environment, revealing its concealed marvels and developing responses to planetary challenges.
Organisers expressed their aspiration for attendees to depart with feelings of amazement for the remarkable world surrounding them, recognising nature as a precious gift requiring protection from all.
The striking iceberg creation, designed by artist Kerith Ogden, forms the centrepiece of a theatrical Arctic tableau incorporating 68 penguin figures and 1,000 glowing fish specimens, complemented by a sparkling Aurora Australis illumination produced by The Colour Project.
Additional notable features encompass Michelle Dufaur’s meadow-style floral arrangement constructed from 2,500 individual handmade petals, drawing its aesthetic from vegetation found in polar regions.
The display acknowledges the conservation initiatives undertaken by Kew scientists, who recently undertook seed collection expeditions to Disko Island situated off Greenland’s coastline.
Their efforts have enabled the Millennium Seed Bank to preserve 24 distinct Arctic species and subspecies.
The pathway concludes with an innovative projection mapping presentation illuminating Wakehurst’s historic Mansion building.
Amanda Duncan presents her inaugural commission for the event, bearing the title Murmurations, which projects animated imagery depicting birds, fish, insects, celestial bodies and seeds across the mansion’s exterior walls.
The occasion additionally highlights community participation, with lanterns designed by regional organisations positioned throughout the route and culminating in the Village of Voices showcase.
The trail director noted that Glow Wild brings together an exceptional network of volunteers who donate their time, creative abilities and dedication throughout the twelve months.
Their contributions are woven throughout the entire experience and constitute one of the elements that render the occasion distinctly characteristic of Wakehurst.