Aquatica Orlando Water Park’s new after-hours event is designed to bring some light to the season. At Illuminate, larger-than-life, lantern-inspired figures, mostly in the shape of animals, line the attraction’s walkways.
“Illuminate invites families to walk and explore the park surrounded by sparkling lanterns and twinkling areas filled with light,” park president Bradley Gilmore said at a preview Wednesday night.
Some of the lighted displays are set on the water, but the park’s slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers are closed during the illumination period. Visitors should leave their swimsuits at home.
“We’ve been doing some evening events here during the winter, like movie nights on the beach, and that really resonated with (annual) pass members,” Gilmore said. Last year, the park introduced Aquaglow, an after-hours, limited-capacity party with slide access. Some of it is enhanced with lighting effects.
For Illuminate, the park is divided into five different themed areas. It begins in an area named AquaLuma, where five Aquatica mascots, including Loa the kiwi and Kata the kingfisher, greet visitors to Illuminate.
Other realms include Enchanted Lagoon, which features underwater mermaids and colorful unicorns. The Discovery River is home to animals such as dolphins, flamingos, lions, giraffes, and rays. and Mist Wood Waters featuring dragonflies, chameleons and birds.
Candy Cascade Falls transforms from a wildlife theme to sweet areas and lollipop-lined trails.
Scents and music are added to the space, creating an immersive atmosphere. Brightly colored tunnels connect each area, and there are stops where you can purchase local products.
“Every glowing lantern, every scent, every sound, every unique experience was created from the ground up by our entertainment and technology teams,” said Cindy Miller, vice president of entertainment.
“They spent months designing, building and programming these worlds for you to enjoy,” she said.
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Additional experiences include s’mores by the fire, a craft area, and a Serengeti Express train ride through a safari scene near the Rivers of Discovery Realm.
According to Gilmore, during Illuminate there is a chance to meet Santa Claus with a tropical kiwi theme, but it is not an overwhelmingly holiday-themed night.
“This is not 100% a Christmas event. It’s an event centered around lanterns and lights and spending time with friends and family,” he said.
Admission fees vary depending on the date. Ticket prices range from $24.99 to $29.99. The water park is located near International Drive and adjacent to sister park SeaWorld Orlando. Illuminate will be held on select nights through January 31st. For more information, please visit aquatica.com.
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