Crystal Bridges Light Show 2023

Joyce Jul 01, 2026

Experience the magic of light and sound as the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art presents its annual "North Forest Lights" light show, returning in 2023 with a breathtaking new installation. This immersive, family-friendly event transforms the museum's North Forest into a vibrant canvas of color, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

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 12 acres, the 2023 edition promises to be the most spectacular yet, with innovative projections, interactive displays, and a captivating musical score. The show is a testament to the museum's commitment to art, innovation, and community engagement, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all ages.

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

The Art of Light

The "North Forest Lights" show is a stunning example of projection mapping, an art form that uses light to create dynamic, three-dimensional illusions on static surfaces. This technique allows artists to turn ordinary buildings and landscapes into extraordinary canvases, bringing stories and emotions to life through light and color.

purple and blue lights are shining on the stage at a concert or show in an arena
purple and blue lights are shining on the stage at a concert or show in an arena

For the 2023 edition, Crystal Bridges has commissioned renowned artists and creative studios to develop a series of original works, each telling a unique story and showcasing a different aspect of the museum's mission to celebrate the American experience through art.

Interactive Installations

an image of a concert scene with bright lights
an image of a concert scene with bright lights

In addition to the main light show, the 2023 "North Forest Lights" will feature interactive installations that allow visitors to become part of the art. These hands-on exhibits will include light-up sculptures, projection-mapped games, and other immersive experiences that encourage play and creativity.

One of the most anticipated installations is the "Luminous Lounge," a glowing, interactive space where visitors can relax, play, and create their own light art. This popular attraction from previous years is set to return with new features and surprises.

Music and Sound Design

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

No light show would be complete without a captivating soundtrack, and the 2023 "North Forest Lights" promises an unforgettable audio experience. The show's music and sound design will be carefully integrated with the visuals, creating a seamless blend of sight and sound that transports visitors to another world.

Expect a diverse range of musical styles, from classical and electronic to folk and pop, all composed and curated to complement the show's themes and narratives. The sound design will also feature immersive spatial audio techniques, creating a 360-degree soundscape that envelops visitors in the experience.

Plan Your Visit

Myriad Gardens — gsb-inc
Myriad Gardens — gsb-inc

Mark your calendars for the 2023 "North Forest Lights" show, running from [insert dates] at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The show will take place nightly, with timed-entry tickets available for purchase online in advance.

In addition to the light show, visitors can explore the museum's galleries, which house an impressive collection of American art, from the colonial period to the present day. The museum's trails and sculpture gardens will also be open, offering beautiful views of the surrounding Ozark landscape.

three people are walking on a bridge in the woods with trees and blue lights behind them
three people are walking on a bridge in the woods with trees and blue lights behind them
the band is performing on stage with purple lighting
the band is performing on stage with purple lighting
Celebrating Summer At Crystal Bridges In Bentonville, Arkansas
Celebrating Summer At Crystal Bridges In Bentonville, Arkansas
Crystal Bridges Museum – Interior (2011)
Crystal Bridges Museum – Interior (2011)
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h <3
a wooden bench sitting in front of a painting
a wooden bench sitting in front of a painting
New exhibit by Chihuly opens at Crystal Bridges
New exhibit by Chihuly opens at Crystal Bridges
Crystal Bridges Museum Wedding by Freckled Fox Photography
Crystal Bridges Museum Wedding by Freckled Fox Photography
an aerial view of stairs in the middle of a wooded area with lights on them
an aerial view of stairs in the middle of a wooded area with lights on them
Go French Yourself’s Guide To Bentonville Arkansas//The Power Of Music — Go French Yourself
Go French Yourself’s Guide To Bentonville Arkansas//The Power Of Music — Go French Yourself
an aerial view of a concert venue with bright lights and sound effects on the ceiling
an aerial view of a concert venue with bright lights and sound effects on the ceiling
a large group of people at a concert with fireworks in the air and on stage
a large group of people at a concert with fireworks in the air and on stage
a bridge that is lit up with blue lights
a bridge that is lit up with blue lights
Brisbane Queensland
Brisbane Queensland
the bridge is lit up at night and reflecting in the water with lights on it
the bridge is lit up at night and reflecting in the water with lights on it
Summer at Crystal Bridges Museum — Old World New
Summer at Crystal Bridges Museum — Old World New
Peaceful night walk
Peaceful night walk
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a bridge that is over some water with lights on it and buildings in the background
a bridge that is over some water with lights on it and buildings in the background
the lights are shining brightly on an empty stage with white and blue beams in the background
the lights are shining brightly on an empty stage with white and blue beams in the background

Tips for Visiting

To make the most of your visit, arrive early to allow time for parking, ticketing, and exploring the museum's grounds. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop after dark, and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

Consider visiting on a weeknight or during the early part of the show's run to avoid the busiest crowds. The show's organizers recommend allowing at least an hour to experience the entire light show, plus additional time to explore the museum and its grounds.

As the sun sets and the lights begin to shine, the 2023 "North Forest Lights" show promises to be a magical and unforgettable experience. Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate art, innovation, and community in the heart of the Ozarks. We can't wait to see you there!