Following the Light: A Lantern-Lit Journey Through Aquatica’s Illuminate

A visual journey through AquaLuma, where glowing animal guardians guide visitors through light and story.

Ashley Brace, Editor-In-Chief • January 26, 2026

Lantern-lined pathways glow during Aquatica’s Illuminate, a nighttime lantern festival that transforms the park into immersive, story-driven realms connected by light, sound and atmosphere.

Lanterns glow across Aquatica during Illuminate, a nighttime lantern festival that transforms the park into interconnected realms guided by light, music and story. The event invites guests to move through the space slowly, experiencing the park after dark in a new way. (Ashley Brace)

Papa the Spoonbill, portrayed as graceful and wise in Illuminate’s story, welcomes visitors into AquaLuma. Her lantern form reflects the realm’s connection to water and movement thorugh soft color and flowing design. (Ashley Brace)

Roa the Kiwi, known as the quiet wanderer of earth and root, represents the first gentle glow of AquaLuma. His lantern introduces the animal guardians who guide the journey through the illuminated landscape. (Ashley Brace)

A glowing mermaid lantern arcs gracefully through the water-themed display at Illuminate, highlighting creatures of the deep. The exhibit invites guests to pause and appreciate the beauty and whimsy of the underwater world. (Ashley Brace)

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A glowing chameleon lantern blends into illuminated foliage during Illuminate, highlighting creatures that adapt and move quietly through the environment. The display encourages guests to slow down and look closely. (Ashley Brace)

Ihu the Gecko. the smallest of AquaLuma guardians, appears tucked among glowing leaves along the pathway. His lantern emphasizes detail and discovery within the larger illuminated realm. (Ashley Brace)

Glowing dragonfly lanterns hover above the pathway in AquaLuma, adding a sense of motion and lightness to the scene. The suspended displays bring playful energy to the nighttime experience. (Ashley Brace)

Smaller lantern details glow near the ground along the AquaLuma path, rewarding guests who take time to explore the quieter elements of Illuminate. These subtle moments help bring the story to a calm close. (Ashley Brace)

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About the Contributor

Ashley Brace, Editor-In-Chief: Copy

Ashley Brace is currently pursuing a career in Radiology here at CF. She enjoys writing and all things spooky and is excited to get back into journalism for Patriot Press.

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Kathy Adkins • Jan 26, 2026 at 2:01 pm

Absolutely beautiful photos!


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