Crystal Bridges Forest Lights 2023

Joyce Jul 01, 2026

Experience the magic of nature and light this winter as Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art presents "Forest Lights" from November 17, 2023, to January 14, 2024. This enchanting outdoor exhibition transforms the museum's trails into a luminous wonderland, perfect for families and friends to enjoy together.

people are standing in the woods at night with colored lights on them and trees behind them
people are standing in the woods at night with colored lights on them and trees behind them

Spanning over 1.5 miles, the illuminated path features stunning light displays, interactive installations, and captivating artworks that celebrate the beauty of the Ozark forest. As you walk through the glowing trails, you'll be immersed in a symphony of colors and light that dance with the natural surroundings.

Time loop
Time loop

What to Expect at Forest Lights 2023

Get ready to be amazed by the mesmerizing light displays that will guide you through the forest. Here's a sneak peek into what you can expect during your visit:

a group of trees with lights on them in the woods
a group of trees with lights on them in the woods

Illuminated Art Installations

Crystal Bridges has invited renowned artists to create site-specific installations that will light up the night. These thought-provoking and visually striking artworks will be scattered along the trail, inviting you to engage with the beauty of both art and nature.

Crystal Bridges (@crystalbridgesmuseum) · Instagram 照片和视频 Crystal Tree Background, Crystal Cathedral California, Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Chihuly Glass Exhibit At The Dallas Arboretum, Instagram Photo, Architecture, Photo And Video, Concert, Crystals
Crystal Bridges (@crystalbridgesmuseum) · Instagram 照片和视频 Crystal Tree Background, Crystal Cathedral California, Gateshead Millennium Bridge, Chihuly Glass Exhibit At The Dallas Arboretum, Instagram Photo, Architecture, Photo And Video, Concert, Crystals

Last year's exhibition featured works like "Luminary Swarm" by Jen Lewin, an interactive installation where visitors could create their own light patterns by stepping on illuminated pads. Keep an eye out for this year's exciting new additions!

Interactive Light Experiences

Forest Lights isn't just a passive experience – it's an interactive journey! Many of the light displays are designed to engage visitors, encouraging you to play, touch, and explore. Bring your family and friends, and get ready to create lasting memories together.

two people standing in the middle of a forest at night with glowing lights on them
two people standing in the middle of a forest at night with glowing lights on them

In previous years, visitors have enjoyed installations like "Light Wave" by Pablo Valbuena, where they could manipulate the light patterns with their movements. Be prepared for more fun and interactive surprises in 2023!

Plan Your Visit to Forest Lights

To make the most of your experience, here are some tips to help you plan your visit to Forest Lights 2023:

Inimitable Enchantment: Crystal Bridges Illuminates the Forest Again
Inimitable Enchantment: Crystal Bridges Illuminates the Forest Again

Timed-Entry Tickets

To manage crowds and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, Crystal Bridges uses a timed-entry ticketing system. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance and arrive at your designated entry time.

Fall At Crystal Bridges Is The Perfect Holiday Getaway For The Entire Family
Fall At Crystal Bridges Is The Perfect Holiday Getaway For The Entire Family
shadows cast on the ground in front of trees and bushes at night with lights shining through them
shadows cast on the ground in front of trees and bushes at night with lights shining through them
the trees are lit up with colorful lights
the trees are lit up with colorful lights
lights strung from trees in the woods
lights strung from trees in the woods
light at the night 🌙 ✨️ 😌
light at the night 🌙 ✨️ 😌
Light show
Light show
a forest with many lights hanging from the trees
a forest with many lights hanging from the trees
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a wooden bridge with lights strung from it's sides in the woods at night
a wooden bridge with lights strung from it's sides in the woods at night
a person walking across a bridge covered in lights
a person walking across a bridge covered in lights
lanterns are hanging from trees in the forest at night, with light shining through them
lanterns are hanging from trees in the forest at night, with light shining through them
a wooden path with lights on it in the middle of a park at night time
a wooden path with lights on it in the middle of a park at night time
@sebpic_ Instagram
@sebpic_ Instagram
some lights that are on the ground in the woods
some lights that are on the ground in the woods
fairy lights shine in the forest with green plants and leaves on the ground, surrounded by grass
fairy lights shine in the forest with green plants and leaves on the ground, surrounded by grass
fairy lights strung from trees in the woods
fairy lights strung from trees in the woods
‘Listening Forest’ Making Its Return to Crystal Bridges
‘Listening Forest’ Making Its Return to Crystal Bridges
a park bench sitting under a tree covered in lights
a park bench sitting under a tree covered in lights
the trees are lit up with colorful lights in the dark forest, and there is no image here to provide a caption for
the trees are lit up with colorful lights in the dark forest, and there is no image here to provide a caption for
a tunnel that has lights on it and snow in the middle with trees lining both sides
a tunnel that has lights on it and snow in the middle with trees lining both sides

Tickets are free, but donations are welcome to support the museum's mission. Visit the Crystal Bridges website to reserve your spots today!

Dress for the Weather

Forest Lights is an outdoor event, so dress appropriately for the chilly winter weather. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bundle up in warm layers to enjoy the trails without missing any of the stunning displays.

Don't forget to bring a flashlight or use the flashlight feature on your phone to help you navigate the darker sections of the trail. Glow sticks and other light-up accessories are also encouraged to add to the festive atmosphere!

As you stroll through the enchanting Forest Lights exhibition, you'll be reminded of the beauty and wonder that can be found in nature, even in the darkest of times. Make plans to visit Crystal Bridges this winter and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. We can't wait to see you there!