The Best Light Shows in Hampshire You Need to See This Winter

As the nights get longer and the festive season kicks in, Hampshire is lighting up with some seriously dazzling events. Whether you’re into magical light trails, immersive experiences, or festive steam trains, there’s something for everyone. So, grab a warm coat, a cup of hot chocolate (obviously), and let’s dive into the most enchanting light shows happening in Hampshire this winter!

1. Steam Illuminations on The Watercress Line

🗓️ 29th November 2024 – 4th January 2025
Choo-choo your way into the festive spirit with a light and sound show on a steam train! With Christmas tunes, colourful illuminations, and commentary from the iconic ‘Voiceover Man,’ this is one for the nostalgia lovers. Whether you’re singing along with family or snapping pictures for Instagram, it’s a ride you won’t want to miss.

2. Glow Marwell – Magical Light Experience

🗓️ 29th November – 30th December 2024
Fire, earth, air, and water come to life at Marwell Zoo’s Glow experience. Swim with glowing jellyfish, wander through neon clouds, and toast marshmallows by crackling fire pits. It’s magical, interactive, and absolutely worth adding to your winter plans.

3. Gilbert White’s Light Festival

🗓️ 21st November – 21st December 2024
This light show is as heartwarming as it is enlightening (literally). Celebrate the legacy of naturalist Gilbert White with a festival that uses renewable energy and low-level lighting. Explore the museum collections, make memories with family, and maybe pick up a few tips on helping wildlife. Bonus: It’s all about being eco-conscious.

4. Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

🗓️ 28th November 2024 – 1st January 2025
Hillier Gardens is back, brighter than ever! Think dazzling installations, festive food, and live entertainment. For an extra treat, upgrade to a Super Peak night for fire jugglers and aerial artists from Steamship Circus. It’s a total sensory overload – in the best way.

5. Enlightened at Staunton Farm

🗓️ 6th – 24th December 2024
Staunton Farm’s light trail is pure magic. Wander through glowing installations, soak up the enchanting soundscapes, and get completely immersed in a world of wonder. This one’s a hit with families, so book early before it sells out!

6. Winter Woodland Lights at Hawk Conservancy Trust

🗓️ 17th January – 2nd February 2025
This one’s perfect for shaking off those January blues. Wander through an illuminated woodland with interactive light displays, then watch stunning owls take flight against the backdrop of twinkling lights. It’s like stepping into a winter fairytale, and trust me, it’s a vibe.

So, there you have it! This winter, Hampshire is bursting with magical light displays, perfect for family outings, date nights, or just treating yourself to a bit of festive sparkle. Let me know which one you’re heading to – or if you’re like me, you might just end up trying them all!