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Illuminated at Anderson Japanese Gardens
Rockford, IL
Enchanting winter lights experience with dramatic up-lighting.
About
Step into a magical winter wonderland at Anderson Japanese Gardens' Illuminated event. Thousands of white string lights and dramatic up-lighting transform the serene landscape into a breathtaking spectacle. Enjoy made-to-order Woodfire Pizza, explore a variety of food trucks, and savor fireside dining and beverages. On select Sunday evenings, cozy up for a special fireside reading of 'The Night Before Christmas.'
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Romantic evenings, family outings, photography enthusiasts
Vibe
Magical, serene, enchanting, festive
Energy Level
Low to moderate
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Evening event
Schedule
Fireside reading of The Night Before Christmas by AJGโs very own John Gleason at 6:15 & 7:15 on Sunday evenings leading up to Christmas.
Featured Performers
- John Gleason
Organizer
Anderson Japanese Gardens
Practical Information
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Made-to-order Woodfire Pizza and a rotating schedule of food trucks available nightly. Fireside dining and beverage service is available inside the visitor's center.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Sunday evenings to secure a good spot for the 'Night Before Christmas' reading, as seating near the fireside is limited.
- Check the schedule for the rotating food trucks in advance to plan your culinary experience.
- Dress in warm layers, as much of the experience is outdoors, even with the availability of indoor dining.
- Consider visiting on a weeknight for a potentially less crowded experience, allowing for more intimate enjoyment of the lights.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning light displays, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash photography that could detract from the ambiance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Illuminated' event?
Illuminated is Anderson Japanese Gardens' wintertime lights experience, featuring dramatic up-lighting and thousands of white string lights woven throughout the landscape and canopy of the Garden.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes, made-to-order Woodfire Pizza and a rotating schedule of food trucks are available nightly. Fireside dining and beverage service are also offered inside the visitor's center.
Is there any special programming?
On Sunday evenings leading up to Christmas, they offer a fireside reading of 'The Night Before Christmas' by John Gleason at 6:15 PM and 7:15 PM.
What is the best way to get there?
Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, IL 61107. While public transportation details are not specified, driving is the most common method.
Can I bring my pet?
Generally, pets are not allowed at the event, though service animals are welcome.