Aus Lights returns to delight in 2024!

The Australia Day Council of South Australia (ADCSA) is pleased to announce the much-anticipated event, Aus Lights on the River, will make a colourful and creative marine-themed return this year that will captivate and enchant audiences of all ages on January 25 and 26 at Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park.

Aus Lights on the River will artistically showcase the South Australian diverse aquatic environments as part of ADCSA’s program of events and activities for Australia Day 2024.

ADCSA CEO, Jan Chorley, said Aus Lights on the River enabled us to reflect on this great land and its peoples, starting with the oldest living cultures, our First Nations, to our most recent arrivals, the refugees fleeing Afghanistan and Mymanar who call Australia home.

“This Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue to deepen our connection to nature and belonging to country. Our increasingly fragile world reminds us of our great country's extraordinary beauty, richness, and expansiveness and the incredible diversity of its people,” said Ms Chorley.

"As part of that exploration, we are thrilled to bring Aus Lights on the River back to Elder Park with an exciting marine theme with this year's program designed to cater to families, children and adults alike, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of Aus Lights while experiencing the beauty of our waterways.

“We can look back at our history, acknowledge the times we are now living through, and manifest our future on the foundations of respect, inclusivity and shared values. What is true is that all of our stories are part of the larger Australian story.

“Australia, with its unique blend of history, diversity and resilience, has the potential to redefine itself as a bastion of inclusivity and compassion. The journey ahead may be arduous, but it is one that holds the promise of a brighter and more harmonious future for all who call this great land home.”

As part of Aus Lights on the River, the iconic rotunda will again be transformed – this time as a spectacular seaquarium, illuminated to feature large sea mammals, fish, and invertebrates that come to life through the art of light, featuring the rich diversity of life in our waterways and oceans.

Also delighting children and the young at heart will be a captivating Giant Cuttlefish—an underwater inflatable theatre space that will transport audiences to an imaginative world beneath the waves.

The enchantment continues with large inflatable marine animals illuminated in a dazzling display of lights, providing a unique and mesmerising sea wonderland immersive experience for all.

Children will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity with various marine-themed arts and crafts activities, from crafting sea creatures to exploring underwater worlds through art, young participants are sure to be engaged and inspired.

As the evening progresses, attendees will be treated to a breathtaking cinematic fireworks display illuminating the night sky, providing a dazzling finale to an unforgettable experience.

Adding to the festivities, one of the new elements is Aus Lights for Kids to be held at the Adelaide Festival Centre Plaza on January 26th, specifically for families with young kids (4-8 year olds) from 4- 6pm. Aus Lights for Kids incorporates entertainment and activities reflecting connection to country theme with the opportunity for kids to learn about and get up close and personal with Australian native animals at the petting zoo with the hands-on experience allowing kids to connect with and learn about the unique wildlife that calls Australia home.

Aus Lights on the River Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park at will include a Food Hub where attendees can embark on a culinary journey of diverse flavours. Savour the taste of international delights in a vibrant and welcoming setting, creating the perfect atmosphere for socialising and enjoying the company of friends and family. Aus Lights on the River is an annual event transforming Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park into a dazzling spectacle of lights and creativity. With a commitment to family-friendly entertainment and community engagement, Aus Lights aims to create memorable experiences for attendees of all ages.

Aus Lights on the River is a free, family-friendly event that promises to be a highlight on the community calendar. Join us in creating lasting memories and the wonders of our oceans at Tarntanya Wama/Elder Park on 25 and 26 January from 5pm onwards.

Aus Lights for Kids at Festival Centre Plaza is on 26 January 4-6pm. For more information, visit https://australiadaysa.com.au/aus-lights-2024/ or follow up on Facebook or Instagram @australiadaysa.