The beauty of Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens can be enjoyed every day throughout the year, but (and it’s a big but) there is one annual event that is really exceptional: Lumagination.
by Meg Bennett
During Lumagination state-of-the-art special effects completely transform the Buffalo Botanical Gardens. Photo credit Joe Diebold
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are always a sight to behold. Fashioned after the Crystal Palace in London, the historic building first opened in 1900 and has since accumulated an impressive worldwide collection of horticulture. You will find tropical trees, cacti and succulents, bonsai, carnivorous plants, orchids, medicinal plants, and so much more. All of this is available year-round, but during Lumagination, when the sun sets, colorful lights illuminate the entire museum, creating an enchanting oasis for visitors of all ages to enjoy. And lucky for us, Lumagination is happening this week!
The theme for this year is Mysterious Minerals. Guests will observe salt cave simulations, wooden sculptures, balancing stones, geodes, crystals and more; all of which will be highlighted by dazzling light displays. Interactive activities, creative decorations, and plenty of photo opportunities will also contribute to the festive mood.
Ready to plan your visit? Let’s take a look at the lineup of specialty events taking place during Lumagination:
Photo and Influencer Night
January 28th
This is an exclusive event for professional photographers to capture Lumagination and participate in a discussion led by Solis. This will be the only time that tripods are allowed in the museum.
Sensory Night hosted by Autism Services, Inc.
January 29th
Representatives from Autism Services, Inc. will educate guests on the benefits of sensory experiences like Lumagination. This event is open to the public and the autism community is especially welcomed.
Fun, colorful, beautiful & thought provoking, Lumagination really is fun for kids of all ages
Educators’ Night
January 31st
All educators with valid ID will receive free admission!
Hero Night
February 5th
All active military, veterans, and first responders with valid ID will receive free admission. The Superhero Alliance will be attending as well!
Pride Night
February 6th
This event will celebrate the LBGTQ+ community, hosted by the Pride Center of Western New York.
Family Night courtesy of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery
February 9th
An art truck will be present onsite along with hands-on entertainment. Albright-Knox members will receive Botanical Garden Member pricing if they present a valid ID.
Lanterns anyone?
Valentine’s Day
February 14th
Want to make a big impression this Valentine’s Day? Bring your date to Lumagination for a romantic experience! If you hurry over, you could be one of the lucky 300 guests to receive a surprise gift!
Family Night
February 16th
If you missed the other Family Nights, you are in luck! One last opportunity will take place on February 16th; this time, with the Buffalo Audubon Society. Kids will get to meet real “critters” and enjoy fun hands-on activities. Audubon Society members will receive Garden Member pricing if they bring a valid ID.
More Information
Lumagination will take place January 25th and 26th (Saturday and Sunday), January 29th through February 1st (Wednesday through Saturday), February 5th through 9th (Wednesday through Sunday), 12th through 22nd (Wednesday through Saturday), and 26th through 29th (Wednesday through Saturday). The series is best experienced after sunset, but having said this, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Official hours are 6 p.m. to 9 p.m weeknights and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. To avoid peak times, aim to arrive between 7:30 and 8 p.m. on weeknights or between 8 and 8:30 on Fridays and Saturdays.
Admission is $15.50/Adult, $14/Senior (62+), $14/Student (13+ with ID), $7/Child (3-12), and Free for Children 2 and under. Members will pay $13.50/Adult, $12/Senior, $12/Student, and $7/Child. Guest passes, discounts, and coupons are not valid for Lumagination. Tickets are available online or at the door.
On select nights, Happy Hour will take place in the Administration Building from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this time, Salvatore’s Hospitality will offer food and drink for sale. Guests can take advantage of this on January 25th, 30th and 31st, February 1st, February 6th through 8th, 13th through 15th, 20th through 22nd, and 27th through 29th.
Don’t miss out on one of the season’s hottest local events! Come bask in the warm glow of a greenhouse paradise. For more information on Lumagination, please visit www.buffalogardens.com.
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