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Learn MoreAurora, Colorado's Newest World-Class Event: Experience the Inaugural Aurora Borealis Festival, A Celebration of Light!
This fall, the Aurora Highlands Winged Melody Park will transform into a mesmerizing light, art, and culture wonderland. From November 1st to 3rd, 2024, the inaugural Aurora Borealis Festival promises an unforgettable experience for families and friends, celebrating the majesty of the Northern Lights, Aurora style, and our community's rich diversity and creativity!
More than just an event, The Aurora Borealis Festival is a celebration of light, community, and culture. Organized by Visit Aurora, this free, family-friendly festival invites you to immerse yourself in a captivating world where technology and nature blend to create awe-inspiring displays and interactive art installations.
As dusk falls, the festival's centerpiece, the Aurora Borealis Effect, will light up the night sky. Inspired by the natural Northern Lights, this stunning display uses nine multi-colored lasers that shine through a water-based haze. The result is a mesmerizing dance of green, blue, and magenta lights that will leave you in awe. Randi Morritt, COO of Visit Aurora, explains, “We’re taking a cue from nature but also infusing technology and our own interpretation of light. It is an art exhibit, after all.”
Step into the Daedalum, an internationally acclaimed interactive art display that immerses you in a labyrinth of light and color. This nearly 11,000-square-foot luminarium features 19 interconnected caverns and winding paths, all made from translucent and opaque walls that filter and reflect natural light. As you explore, you’ll be surrounded by an ever-changing ambiance that feels like an ephemeral wonderland, complete with a gentle, sensory soundscape.
On the northeastern edge of the festival, the Stanley Marketplace Orb Garden awaits. This enchanting garden features six color-changing orbs that guests can walk through and sit inside. As the sun sets, the LEDs inside the orbs illuminate in a range of vibrant hues, creating the perfect backdrop for photos. Whether you’re looking to capture a magical moment or relax in the glow, the Orb Garden is a must-visit.
This immersive experience invites you to walk through a dazzling corridor of light, where thousands of LED lights create a dynamic and ever-changing display. As you step into the tunnel, you’ll be surrounded by a symphony of colors and patterns that shift and change as you move, making it a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Prepare to be enveloped in sound at the Denver7 Sound Dome, one of the most unique and immersive experiences at the Aurora Borealis Festival. This innovative installation offers festival-goers a 360-degree auditory experience, where soundscapes blend with ambient light to create a truly captivating environment. Inside the dome, you'll be surrounded by carefully curated audio that ranges from soothing melodies to dynamic beats, all synchronized with mesmerizing visual effects.
Whether you're a fan of live music, enjoy watching dance, or want to experience cultural showcases, the performance stage offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to take a break from exploring the festival and enjoy the rich artistic expressions that make Aurora so unique. Be sure to check the schedule and catch some of the amazing acts that will be lighting up the stage throughout the festival!
For those looking to bring a piece of the festival home, the Global Gift Bazaar offers a unique shopping experience. Housed in a sandy-hued tent with eight massive peaks, the bazaar features 20 local vendors offering a wide range of handcrafted goods. From artisanal jewelry to home decor, there’s something for everyone. And while you browse, don’t forget to stop by Dry Dock Brewing Co. for a refreshing Apricot Blonde on tap.
Some of the best of Aurora’s diverse culinary scene will offer a mouthwatering array of options that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From local food trucks serving up international delights to gourmet snacks and classic festival fare, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for savory street tacos, flavorful Mediterranean dishes, or sweet treats to enjoy under the lights, the Flavors of Aurora Food Court is the perfect place to refuel and relax while exploring the festival’s attractions.
Prepare to dance like no one’s watching at Aurora Pride’s Silent Disco. As you don a pair of wireless headphones, you can tune into one of three playlists and dance the night away. The clear-top tent allows the Aurora Borealis Effect to shine through, adding an extra layer of magic to your experience.
• Arrive At Your Scheduled Time: The festival is free but is expected to draw large crowds. Arriving at your scheduled time will allow you to explore all the installations and enjoy the displays without feeling rushed.
• Dress Warmly: November nights in Colorado can get chilly, so be sure to dress in layers to stay comfortable as you explore the outdoor exhibits.
• Bring a Camera: With so many visually stunning displays, you’ll want to capture the magic. Make sure your camera or smartphone is charged and ready to go.
• Plan Your Visit: With so much to see and do, planning your visit will ensure you don’t miss out on any of the festival’s highlights. Check the festival map and schedule in advance to make the most of your experience.
The Aurora Borealis Festival is not just an event; It’s a celebration of everything that makes Aurora special. From the innovative art installations to the vibrant community spirit, this festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with others, experience cutting-edge creativity, and be part of something truly magical. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Aurora Borealis Festival is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience. Reserve your free tickets today by visiting auroraborealisfestival.com. Mark your calendars for November 1st to 3rd, and get ready to be dazzled by the light, art, and community at the Aurora Borealis Festival. We'll see you there!
Events Explore and enjoy all Aurora has to offer with our lineup of events!
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