What To Expect From ENLIGHTEN at Fredrick Meijer Gardens

It's been a busy year for events in Grand Rapids, with ArtPrize, the city's 175th anniversary, and the Christkindl Market. But as the year comes to an end, there is one more major event taking place just outside the Grand Rapids area that is worth checking out.

Get our free mobile app

Fredrick Meijer Gardens is hosting its second annual ENLIGHTEN event, a 90-minute walk through its outside garden with spectacular lights, music, a beer garden, and more. Not knowing what to expect from the event, some friends and I went over the weekend and indulged in the food, drinks, and atmosphere.

Here's an overview of what we experienced so you can prepare in advance.

Food, Drinks, and Adult Beverages

Upon entering, you're faced with your first decision: get concessions or begin your 1-mile trek through the gardens? The Eileen Devries Concessions Center has a variety of food and drink options (including a beer garden for the adults). Of course, I had to have an authentic U.P. Pasty handmade by The Pasty Oven. It was 15 ounces of MICHIGAN, and it was delicious.

While walking around, my friends and I enjoyed a spiked hot chocolate. One thing to note is that all alcoholic drinks must be purchased in a collector's mug, with the trade-off that your refills are discounted—just something to keep in mind. But overall, I was surprised by the diversity of the orders. But now for the main event.

ENLIGHTEN Is A Lovely Time

The actual mile walk outside is a spectacle. Again, it is all outside, so dress appropriately. The walk is all paved, and the light exhibits are all diverse and unique. There are also many flashing lights that my friend with epilepsy said should be noted. If you are sensitive to flashing lights, there are sensory supports at the box office by the entrance.

Halfway through the trail is another beverage station, port-a-potties, a warm-up station, and an array of fire pits. From then on out, many of the sculptures are interactive, and the kiddos can enjoy them.

READ MORE: 5 Things To Know Before Visiting Grand Rapids' Christkindl Markt

The trail ends at the back of the building, where Mad Mom invites you to check out a miniature train that runs through multiple rooms of the tropical conservatory. If you're interested in attending, Adult tickets cost $30, kids 3-13 cost $15, students with ID cost $22.50, and seniors 65+ cost $22.50.

With ENLIGHTEN, the Christkindl Market, and Rosa Parks Circle's ice rink open for the season, and the World of Winter festival around the corner, it's a fun time around Grand Rapids.