Illuminarium at the Swiss National Museum Zurich

If you want to see more than one show, go for the evening ticket. It’s valid for all three light shows on your chosen evening, and you can leave and re-enter the show area.

• Adults: evening ticket CHF 23.90, two single tickets CHF 29.80, all three shows separately CHF 44.70
• Young people (10 to 15 years): evening ticket CHF 14.90, single show CHF 9.90
• Children (6 to 9 years): evening ticket CHF 10.90, single show CHF 5.90 to 6.90
• Children under 6: free

Children and young people may only enter when accompanied by an adult.

Yuki’s Arctic Christmas

Conductor Yuki and her terrifyingly spectacular friends celebrate Christmas in the far north, where they uncover a chillingly beautiful secret. The show runs daily at 17:15 and 18:45 (until 15 November, at 17:30 and 18:50) and is suitable for all ages.

Yuki’s Pixel Zoo Jungle

Travel with Yuki through the rainforests of the Congo, the Amazon and Indonesia, and meet gorillas, jaguars, sloths and macaws. Created in collaboration with Zurich Zoo, the show runs daily at 18:00 and 19:30 (until 15 November, at 18:10 and 19:30).

Art x Electronica

This digital art show projects works by Paul Klee onto the façades of the National Museum using video mapping, electronic music, lasers and disco balls. It runs every 30 minutes from 20:00 to 22:00 and is recommended for ages 10 and over.

Is admission to Illuminarium free?

The front section of the courtyard, with bars, food stalls and a fondue chalet, is open to everyone free of charge. You’ll need a ticket for the three light shows: either for one show or an evening ticket covering all three.

How long does a show last?

Each light show lasts around 25 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes before the show starts; the exact time is on your ticket.

Does Illuminarium go ahead in the rain?

Yes, the festival and shows take place outdoors whatever the weather. Dress warmly and wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Is Illuminarium suitable for children?

Both Yuki shows are suitable for all ages, while Art x Electronica is recommended for ages 10 and over. Children aged 5 and under get in free. According to the organisers, from Thursday to Saturday, entry after 20:00 is restricted to those aged 21 and over. So if you’re bringing children, it’s best to come earlier in the evening.

When is it least busy?

It’s quietest just after opening at 17:00 (15:00 on Sundays). Later in the evening, the courtyard gets busy and noisy.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are allowed until 20:00. The shows aren’t suitable for people with light sensitivity.

How do I get to Illuminarium?

The Swiss National Museum is right next to Zürich main station, just a few minutes’ walk away. By tram, take lines 4, 11, 13, 14 or 17 to Bahnhofquai/HB, or travel to Bahnhofplatz/HB. There are car parks near the main station, at Central and at Urania.

The Food Corner is open to everyone, with food stalls around fire pits serving everything from Alpine macaroni and chestnuts to tacos, curry and waffles. The two-storey ILLU.CHALET serves fondue by reservation. The bars are open until 23:00, and DJs play at ILLU.DANCE from 19:00. You can pay cash-free at the festival by card or mobile phone.