This festival of lights will transport you to breathtaking lighting, dynamic multimedia effects, and exciting video projections. You will also enjoy an original score that will introduce you to a world filled with magic and possibilities.
As you explore the festival venue, you will enjoy seeing plenty of fairy lights, blinking Christmas lights, curtain lights, icicle lights, LED curtain lights, net lights, rope lights, and meteor shower lights. Wandering the hopeful, bright future reveals the secrets and beauty of tomorrow.
The light exhibition offers a unique adventure at the heart of nature. It is an ideal sensory experience for families or anyone who wish to witness spectacular illumination.
Terra Lumina Dates
Terra Lumina allows you to step through the portal of the future. You will see how the world glows with hopes in 2099. It is the year when humans have learned to live with wildlife and nature in harmony, and the planet is filled with enchantment.
This light festival creates positive and hopeful moments of connection. Aside from animated projections, multimedia effects, and vibrant lights, you will also enjoy the inspiring storytelling combined with the original score, conjuring the immersive and futuristic world that shares possibilities for a brighter tomorrow.
In 2022, Terra Lumina ran from August 4 until September 4, 2022. However, this 2023, the enchanting festival of lights took place from February 4 to April 9, 2023. For 2024, organizers are yet to announce the dates. So, you have plenty of time to plan your visit. Do not forget to bring your loved one for a more memorable festival experience.
Where Is Terra Lumina Located and How to Get There
This year’s Terra Lumina is described as “a magical walk into a brighter future. It’s a family-friendly event showcasing wonderful visuals and an immersive experience where you can travel through a portal to the year 2099.
The light exhibition will take you on a story journey in the middle of an enchanted forest. It takes place in Toronto Zoo at 2000 Meadowvale Road, Scarborough, ON M1B 5K7, Canada. The zoo is set in the sublime Rouge Value.
The zoo’s main entrance is situated north of Highway 401. If you plan to bring your own car, drive Highway 401 West or East to Meadowvale Road. After that, go north on Meadowvale Road. Finally, follow the signs to the zoo’s entrance.
You can also reach the festival venue by public transit. The TTC operates bus routes to the zoo from different transit stations. There is a bus stop located near the main entrance for convenience.
The 86A Toronto bus operates from Kennedy station to the zoo daily during the summer. All buses run from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The 85 Shepherd East bus operates from Rouge Hill GO Station and Don Mills Station on holidays, Saturdays, and Sundays to the zoo. 85A and 85B buses operate directly to the zoo from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. 85 Sheppard East buses operating at Meadowvale Road/Sheppard Avenue intersection encourage people to transfer in 86A Toronto buses to ensure a shorter trip to the venue.
If you liked Terra Lumina, you might want to check out these other amazing lights festivals in Canada:
Terra Lumina Festival Hours
Terra Lumina symbolizes a narrative thread of experience illuminating storytelling arc and animated themes. The festival of lights features a twilight portal you can pass through to access a never-before adventure. From here, you will find the future wildlife’s wisdom, the change’s metaphorical seeds, and the two stylized markings expressing the change happening during your passage through the magical world.
The breathtaking festival of lights usually runs from 9:00 PM to 10:15 PM.
It is advisable to arrive at the festival venue 15 minutes before the starting time. The light festival is a rain or shine event. Please note that you will not see zoo animals during the light exhibition.
How Much It Costs to Visit Terra Lumina
Terra Lumina includes an interactive light setup for an added layer of excitement to its light and sound experience. Plus, this light festival is a 100% carbon neutral event as part of the zoo’s conservation goals. It also uses a custom soundscape created with singers and musicians from different Canadian tribal groups.
For next year’s event, organizers are yet to release information on ticket prices. However to give you an idea, here are the ticket prices from previous Terra Lumina events:
- Adult (13 to 64 years old) – $29.99
- Children (3 to 17 years old) – $24.99
- Senior (65 years and above) – $27.99
- Children (2 years old and below) – Free
- Toronto Zoo Member – $5 discount
For the latest updates on ticket prices, stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website.
Weather and What to Wear
Terra Lumina starts in August, so expect the weather in Ontario to be warm. On average, the temperatures are in the mid-20s Celsius (high 70s Fahrenheit). So, pack these items:
- Breathable footwear
- Sandals
- Extra socks
- Long or Short sleeve shirts
- Light skirts
- Short pants or Heavy shorts
- Light dresses
- Umbrella
- Beach necessities
- Bug repellent
- Sunscreen lotion
In September, the weather in Ontario is mild. During the day, the average temperatures are in the low 20s Celsius (low 70s Fahrenheit). At night, the average temperatures are in the single digits Celsius (low 40s Fahrenheit). Humidity is often from 50% to 60% during the day. So, do not forget the following:
- Umbrella
- Beach necessities
- Sunscreen lotion
- Bug repellent
- Short or long sleeve shirts
- Extra socks
- Sandals
- Breathable footwear
- Heavy shorts or short pants
- Light skirts
- Light dresses
Where to Sleep
Terra Lumina is one of the most exciting events you should not miss when you visit Ontario. However, before you get too excited, make sure to book comfortable accommodation. Here are the top choices:
Comfortable Private Space
This accommodation is around 6.4 km from the zoo. It features free private parking and free Wi-Fi. the rooms are comfortable and clean.
Travelodge by Wyndham Toronto East
This hotel is approximately 5.8 km from the festival venue, around a 5-minute drive. Aside from a spacious and comfortable room, it features a hot tub and an indoor pool.
Comfort In Pickering
This non-smoking accommodation is about 5.3 from the zoo. Besides close proximity to different attractions like Petticoat Creek Conservation Area, it also offers convenient amenities.
The Tartan House Bed & Breakfast
This accommodation is around 12.2 km from the zoo. It features access to a garden, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. The staff is very accommodating and professional.
Where to Eat
Aside from Terra Lumina, you can visit Ontario to try different food destinations. Here are the top restaurants near the zoo:
The Real McCoy Burgers & Pizza
This restaurant is famous for its wide variety of meal options and delicious dishes. Aside from mouthwatering burgers and pizza, the Fish and Chips and Poutine are also popular.
Haida Sandwich
This restaurant is a perfect place to enjoy a comprehensive menu of salads, pizzas, sandwiches, and beverages. The sandwiches and pizzas have generous toppings. The Haida Special Pizza is a highly recommended meal consisting of chicken and beef deli, beef sausage, mozzarella cheese, olive, mushrooms, green pepper, ketchup, and special sauce.
Lamanna’s Bakery
This food destination offers a wide variety of baked goods and Italian food items. The left side is dedicated to Italian goods, including pizza, lasagna, sandwiches, etc. The right side is where you can find the pastries, from donuts and cookies to cakes and homemade gelato.
Caribbean Wave
This restaurant is a favorite destination for Caribbean-style low Mein, fried rice, and chow Mein. Portions are generous, whether for take-out or dine-in.
Teds Restaurant
This restaurant is usually used as a backdrop for TV production and movies. The menu offers blue-plate specials and all-day breakfast specials. It serves pasta, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, desserts, and different Ted’s specials.
More Things to Do in the Area
Apart from Terra Lumina, there are plenty of exciting things to try in Ontario, including:
- Scarborough Bluffs
This 9-mile stretch of cliffs is home to a series of 11 parks. Natural beauty is the main feature of the bluffs. It is the perfect place to try hiking. There are also plenty of picnic areas on the sandy beach at Bluffer’s Park.
- High Park
This 400-acres public park features untouched nature, themed gardens, and manicured lawns. You can try different interactive activities like playgrounds, a dog run, ice skating rinks, tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool, and a zoo.
- Royal Ontario Museum
This museum was built in 1912 and is dedicated to geology, zoology, mineralogy, paleontology, and archaeology. It covers everything from fine arts to cultural history.
- Art Gallery of Ontario
This art gallery was established in 1900, showcasing over 90,000 items spanning the last 2,000 years. Aside from Indigenous and Canadian art collections, it has notable works by Pablo Picasso, Auguste Rodin, Rembrandt, and other European masters.
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FAQ
- Is there designated parking for Terra Lumina attendees?
- Answer: Yes, parking is available at the Toronto Zoo. There may be a parking fee unless you’re a zoo member. Always check the latest updates on the official website before heading to the event.
- Are there any smoking areas within Terra Lumina?
- Answer: No, the Toronto Zoo is a smoke-free facility, and this extends to the Terra Lumina experience. Smokers are requested to refrain from smoking within the zoo premises.
- Can I bring my pet to Terra Lumina?
- Answer: No, pets are not allowed within the zoo or at the Terra Lumina event for the safety and comfort of all visitors and the animals at the zoo.
- What should I wear to Terra Lumina?
- Answer: Dress according to the weather. The event is outdoors, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and layers if it’s chilly.
- Is Terra Lumina wheelchair and stroller accessible?
- Answer: Yes, the path for Terra Lumina is designed to be accessible. However, keep in mind the natural terrain of the zoo, and some areas may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.
- Can I purchase food and beverages at the event?
- Answer: Yes, there are usually snack and beverage stations available. However, it’s always a good idea to check in advance or eat before attending the event.
- What measures are in place for inclement weather?
- Answer: Terra Lumina is an outdoor event and will proceed in light rain. In the case of severe weather, the event may be canceled, and ticket holders will be informed and offered alternative dates.
- How long is the Terra Lumina experience?
- Answer: The walking journey typically lasts about 60 minutes, but you should allow for extra time for parking, ticketing, and any additional activities or stops you wish to make.
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