Fall might be settling in, but one of Montreal’s most enchanting traditions is just getting started. At the Botanical Garden, Jardins de lumière has returned, lighting up the pathways with lanterns, projections, and glowing installations that feel straight out of a storybook.
Running nightly until November 2, the 13th edition of the event transforms the Chinese, Japanese, and First Nations gardens into illuminated landscapes where myths, poetry, and nature all come alive. It’s become a fall ritual for many Montrealers, the kind of evening walk that makes you forget the chill in the air.
When the sun sets, the gardens reveal three different worlds. In the Chinese Garden, the legend of the Shan Hai Jing unfolds with mythical creatures and the celestial goddess Xiwangmu gathering at a sacred tree that links heaven and earth. The lanterns and water reflections create a glowing scene that feels timeless and otherworldly.
A short walk away, the Japanese Garden leans into quiet beauty. Projections make birds soar across rocks and fish glide through foliage, while a flute soundtrack drifts through the pine grove. It’s peaceful, meditative, and almost surreal, and feels like watching a painting slowly come to life.
The First Nations Garden offers a different kind of experience. Here, the focus is on cycles of life and nature, guided by the voice of Innu poet Joséphine Bacon and songs by Moe Clark. At the centre, a massive poplar tree glows with shifting colours, symbolizing the seasons and grounding visitors in the rhythm of the earth.
Timed entry is in place, so you’ll need to pick a slot when buying tickets. It’s a popular event, especially on weekends, so reserving early is a good idea. The setup makes for a relaxed walk through the gardens, where you can actually take in the lights without feeling rushed or crowded.
Plus, securing a ticket also gives you access to the entire Jardin botanique, which can be visited at any time on the same day.
Jardins de lumière
Ticket price:
- Adult: $23.75
- Senior (65+): $21.50
- Student (18+, with ID): $17.50
- Child (5–17): $12.25
- Child (0–4): Free
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): $65.75
- Family (2 adults + 3 children): $65.75
- Companion of a disabled person: Free (one per accompanied person)
- When: Daily until November 2
Address: 4101, rue Sherbrooke E, Montreal, Quebec
Why You Need To Go: It’s a magical experience that includes full access to the gardens.
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