Slovenia’s iconic Arboretum lights up with millions of lights

The winter season is lighting up at the Volčji Potok Arboretum, Slovenia, where the annual Evening Walk Among the Lights has returned.

Stretching across 35 hectares and powered by about two million lights, the experience offers a carefully designed nighttime stroll available every day until 11 January, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.

This year's installation includes 35 kilometres of light chains, arranged to create an immersive walk rather than a simple display. While the light scenes are intentionally challenging to capture on camera, the team has incorporated several designated spots where visitors can take well-framed photos.

"We are inviting people not just to look at the lights, but to walk among them," according to arboretum director Matjaž Mastnak.

Safety played an important role in the design of this year's route. The walking path is lined with a fence decorated with light chains to help older visitors feel more secure, and most electrical wiring has been buried underground to prevent tripping hazards.

The creative team also ensured that parts of the trail remain enjoyable during the day. This includes the newly arranged Santa's Village, described by design and installation lead Tomaš Slapar as the biggest challenge this year. Special care was taken to protect the natural environment throughout the design process.

Sustainability remains a priority as well. The arboretum has transitioned to low-consumption lighting, while the entire installation uses around 20 kWh of electricity per month, a minimal amount given its size.

The display, the result of months of preparations, avoids green lighting to preserve the natural colour of the park, opting instead for a warm yellow and red colour scheme, following current international design trends.

The lights will be on every day, including weekends and holidays, from 4 pm to 9 pm until 11 January.

Photo: Nebojša Tejić/STA