LUMENAURA: Powered by IBEW Locals 461 & 701
What is LUMENAURA?
LUMENAURA is the City of Aurora’s unique annual experience that transforms downtown Aurora into a glowing wonderland of immersive light and sound. Stroll through mesmerizing art displays, interact with artistic soundscapes, and enjoy a magical, family-friendly adventure—completely free! Don’t just see the lights—step into them!
LUMENAURA Fest Weekend (October 10-12, 2025)
LUMENAURA Fest Weekend is where the lights shine brightest! For one electrifying weekend (October 10-12), downtown Aurora transforms into an immersive playground of interactive art, music, and multi-sensory experiences. Wander through incredible illuminated displays, create your artistic masterpieces, and dance the night away at the main stage. Don’t miss the liveliest weekend of the LUMENAURA experience!
The Main Stage entertainment is equally illuminating, featuring some of Illinois' best musical acts.
2025 LUMENAURA Fest Weekend |
FRIDAY OCTOBER 10, 2025 | SATURDAY OCTOBER 11, 2025 | SUNDAY OCTOBER 12, 2025 |
performance times are subject to change without notice
8:00 PM | 8:15 PM | 7:00 PM |
TBA | TBA | TBA |
6:00 PM | 6:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
TBA | TBA | TBA |
An Inclusive Experience for All!
At LUMENAURA, we believe in creating a sensory-rich experience that everyone can enjoy, especially individuals with developmental disabilities, who often thrive in environments that engage in light and sound. Our interactive displays encourage movement, exploration, and self-expression, while accessible pathways and powerful displays without loud music ensure a welcoming space for all. By blending art, music, and light, LUMENAURA offers a joyful, inclusive experience where everyone can connect and celebrate creativity in their own way.
What is LUMENAURA?
LUMENAURA is the City of Aurora’s unique annual experience that transforms downtown Aurora into a glowing wonderland of immersive light and sound. Stroll through mesmerizing art displays, interact with artistic soundscapes, and enjoy a magical, family-friendly adventure—completely free! Don’t just see the lights—step into them!
LUMENAURA Fest Weekend (October 10-12, 2025)
LUMENAURA Fest Weekend is where the lights shine brightest! For one electrifying weekend (October 10-12), downtown Aurora transforms into an immersive playground of interactive art, music, and multi-sensory experiences. Wander through incredible illuminated displays, create your artistic masterpieces, and dance the night away at the main stage. Don’t miss the liveliest weekend of the LUMENAURA experience!
The Main Stage entertainment is equally illuminating, featuring some of Illinois' best musical acts.
2025 LUMENAURA Fest Weekend |
FRIDAY OCTOBER 10, 2025 | SATURDAY OCTOBER 11, 2025 | SUNDAY OCTOBER 12, 2025 |
performance times are subject to change without notice
8:00 PM | 8:15 PM | 7:00 PM |
TBA | TBA | TBA |
6:00 PM | 6:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
TBA | TBA | TBA |
An Inclusive Experience for All!
At LUMENAURA, we believe in creating a sensory-rich experience that everyone can enjoy, especially individuals with developmental disabilities, who often thrive in environments that engage in light and sound. Our interactive displays encourage movement, exploration, and self-expression, while accessible pathways and powerful displays without loud music ensure a welcoming space for all. By blending art, music, and light, LUMENAURA offers a joyful, inclusive experience where everyone can connect and celebrate creativity in their own way.
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2024 ART INSTALLATIONS
Share 2024 ART INSTALLATIONS on Facebook Share 2024 ART INSTALLATIONS on Twitter Share 2024 ART INSTALLATIONS on Linkedin Email 2024 ART INSTALLATIONS linkTHE SONIC RUNWAY is a stunning light-art installation that transforms audio signals into patterns of light, shooting down a 400-foot corridor of 23 LED-lined arches at the speed of sound. Visitors will experience musical sound waves rippling away from them and syncing with the light as they walk through the corridor. Photo Credit: Sonic Runway, a creation by Rob Jensen & Warren Trezevant, powered by Creos, photo by City of Aurora.
THE POOL is an interactive field of concentric circles that create a light landscape for visitors to run, walk, dance, jump, and play across, generating an infinite amount of changes to the works’ colors and reflections. Inspired by Australian tidal pools, artist Jen Lewin has brought this immersive experience to over sixty exhibition venues worldwide, encouraging participation in an ever-changing composition. Photo Credit: The Pool by artist Jen Lewin, photo by City of Aurora.
EXPOSURE is an installation enabling visitors to create light-art selfies on a monumental sphere by simply illuminating themselves with a personal flashlight or smartphone. Through interaction, the images captured and rebroadcasted alter the sphere and the image itself in a captivating and engaging light painting experience. Created by LUCION Media | Distributed by Wireframe | Public Art Agency
SHADOWING is a public artwork tracing paths as pedestrians pass under the light of a city lamppost while the same lamp projects the shadow of a path walked previously by another. The artwork plays on the urban sensation of being among others – even if that presence is only a ghostly shadow – while also referencing the ubiquity of digital surveillance. Created by Chomko & Rosier | Distributed by Wireframe | Public Art Agency
BARREL BOY AND FAMILY is a collection of sculptures made from twelve opaque plastic 55-gallon drums. Standing as tall as 14 feet, these playful creations draw inspiration from an eclectic mix of iconic roadside sculptures such as the Jolly Green Giant, Muffler Man, and Uniroyal Gal. Infused with the spirit of the enchanting Dambo Trolls, these sculptures are simple, featuring no faces, hands, or feet, only barrels. The family is of four is represented with the father, mother, twitter teen and child. Standing on the platforms is okay but please no climbing. They are designed to offer fun-filled photo opportunities and add a touch of childhood joy to any location. Created by Joel Edward Sisson | Photo by City of Aurora
PROJECTION MAPPING to be designed for Aurora’s G.A.R. Museum (23 E. Downer Pl.) on display October 11 -13. Designed by George Berlin | Photo by City of Aurora
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GET HERE
Share GET HERE on Facebook Share GET HERE on Twitter Share GET HERE on Linkedin Email GET HERE link🚗 By Car
Downtown Aurora is easily accessible from all directions via major highways. Use the directions below based on your starting point or use Google Maps for real-time navigation to Aurora City Hall at 44 E. Downer Place Aurora, IL 60505.
From the East:
Option 1 (via I-290 & I-88):
Take I-290 W to I-88 W. Exit 117 for IL-31/IL-56 E (Lake Street).
Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Aurora, and merge onto IL-31 S (S. Lincolnway St).
Drive about 2.5 miles into downtown Aurora.Option 2 (via I-55 & I-294):
Take I-55 S to I-294 N. Exit 29 for I-88 W toward Aurora.
Then follow the directions above from Exit 117.From the West:
Take I-88 E to Exit 117 for IL-31/IL-56 E (Lake Street).
Keep right and merge onto IL-31 S (S. Lincolnway St).
Continue about 2.5 miles into downtown Aurora.From the North:
Option 1 (Randall Rd):
Take Randall Rd S to Mooseheart Rd, turn left, then right on IL-31 S (Lake St).
Drive about 4 miles into downtown.Option 2 (IL-25 to IL-56):
Take IL-25 S → Dunham Rd → N. Kirk Rd → IL-56 W.
Turn left on Mitchell Rd, then right on E. Indian Trail.
Turn left on IL-31/N Lake St, continue 1.5 miles into downtown.Option 3 (IL-47 to I-88):
Take IL-47 S to I-88 E.
Take Exit 117 and follow directions above.From the South:
Option 1 (via IL-47 & I-80):
Take IL-47 N to I-80 E. Exit 116 for Brisbin Rd, turn left.
Use local roads to reach IL-31 N, follow it about 6 miles into downtown.Option 2 (via Ridge & Wolf Roads):
Take IL-47 N to I-80 E, Exit 122 to N. Ridge Rd, then follow:
Stewart Rd → Rance Rd → Harvey Rd → Wolf Rd → US-30 W → Hill Ave → E. Galena Blvd → N. East Ave → E. New York St → N. River St → W. Galena Blvd.Street parking is free within the downtown limits, and there are two parking garages for your convenience. MORE INFO.
🚆 By Train
Take the Metra BNSF Line to the Aurora Transportation Center—less than 1 mile from downtown!
👉 [Download the BNSF schedule here]🚌 By Bus
Pace Suburban Bus has several routes with stops in or near downtown Aurora:
- 524 (West Aurora)
- 530 (West Galena–Naperville)
- 533 (Northeast Aurora)
- 540 (Farnsworth Avenue)
- 802 (Aurora–Geneva via Lake)
👉 [View Pace routes here]
Pace On Demand also offers a reservation-based ride service in parts of Aurora.
- Book up to 7 days in advance—or as little as 10 minutes before pickup, based on availability.
- Rides are first-come, first-served.
👉 [Learn more about Pace On Demand]
🚲 By Bike
Explore downtown Aurora by bike along the scenic Fox River Trail and other local paths.
Bike rentals are available at:- RiverEdge Park (360 N. Broadway)
- Santori Public Library (101 S. River St.)
- Water Street Mall at City Hall (44 E. Downer Pl.)
Choose from hourly rates or monthly/annual memberships.
👉 [Click here to learn more] -
EXPLORE HERE
Share EXPLORE HERE on Facebook Share EXPLORE HERE on Twitter Share EXPLORE HERE on Linkedin Email EXPLORE HERE link🎉 Explore Aurora
Aurora offers a variety of activities for individuals, groups, and families to enjoy year-round!
🎭 Enjoy a Show
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Paramount Theatre
Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy in a historic venue.
Upcoming 2025-2026 Broadway Series:
– Come From Away (Aug 20 – Oct 12)
– White Christmas (Nov 12 – Jan 11)
– Dear Evan Hansen (Feb 4 – Mar 22)
– South Pacific (Apr 29 – Jun 14) -
Stolp Island Theatre
98-seat venue staging Million Dollar Quartet—feel like you're in Sun Studio with Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis & Carl Perkins. -
Copley Theatre
Intimate 165-seat space hosting the BOLD Series.
2025-2026 Season Highlights:
– True West (Jul 16 – Aug 31)
– Covenant (Oct 1 – Nov 16)
– Ride the Cyclone (Mar 18 – May 31) -
The Venue
Live music indoors and outdoors—local artists and national touring acts. -
Riverfront Playhouse
Community theater with productions since 1978.
🌿Family Fun & Attractions
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Phillips Park Zoo
Free, open daily, year-round. See eagles, wolves, otters & more. -
Philips Park Golf Course
18-hole course has “USGA” Greens, a three-hole junior course, and a driving range. -
Blackberry Farm
Living history museum with unlimited rides, pony rides, and family fun. -
Aurora Skate Center
Old-school roller rink with modern updates. -
Astro Fun World
Go-karts, laser tag, VR rides, bumper cars, and axe throwing. -
Sky Zone Aurora
Indoor trampoline park with dodgeball, basketball, and obstacle courses. -
Legendary Escape Rooms & Axe Throwing
Themed escape rooms and games for all ages. -
Sport Zone Family Fun Center
Go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, and soccer fields. -
Abbey Farms (Seasonal)
Pumpkin Daze festival, petting zoo, and 40 acres of fall fun. -
Basement of the Dead (Seasonal)
Award-winning haunted house open during the Halloween season.
🎨 Arts, Museums & History
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Aurora Public Art
Public art installations and rotating gallery exhibits, including LUMENAURA. -
Aurora Regional Fire Museum
Housed in a historic fire station with interactive exhibits. -
William Tanner House Museum
1857 Italianate mansion on the National Register of Historic Places. -
Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum
Military history museum honoring veterans throughout U.S. history.
🛍️ Shopping
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Chicago Premium Outlets
160+ stores, outdoor shopping, fireplaces, art, and a reflecting pond. -
Fox Valley Mall
Three-level mall featuring Round 1 Arcade, Macy’s, H&M, and more. -
Downtown Aurora Shops
Explore unique boutiques within walking distance of LUMENAURA.
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Paramount Theatre
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EAT HERE
Share EAT HERE on Facebook Share EAT HERE on Twitter Share EAT HERE on Linkedin Email EAT HERE link🍽️ Eat Here
Downtown Aurora serves up a delicious variety of dining options to satisfy every craving!
- Downtown Restaurants – From casual bites to upscale eats, explore our full list of local favorites.
- Bars & Drinks – Grab a cocktail, craft beer, or cozy up with a coffee.
Looking to explore beyond downtown?
- Fox Valley Mall – National chains and quick eats.
- Pacifica Square – A unique mix of Asian-inspired dining experiences.
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STAY HERE
Share STAY HERE on Facebook Share STAY HERE on Twitter Share STAY HERE on Linkedin Email STAY HERE link🛏️ Stay Here
Make the most of your visit with a stay at one of these nearby hotels:
🛌 Holiday Inn Express & Suites
📍 111 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505
📞 630.896.2800
⭐ Located in downtown Aurora!🛌 Candlewood Suites
📍 2625 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506
📞 630.907.9977🛌 Hampton Inn & Suites
📍 2423 Bushwood Avenue, Aurora, IL 60506
📞 630.907.2600🛌 Holiday Inn, Aurora
📍 2424 Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506
📞 630.806.7400🛌 Meridian Park Suites
📍 4320 Meridian Parkway, Aurora, IL 60506
📞 630.978.2222🛌 Quality Inn
📍 4005 Gabrielle Drive, Aurora, IL 60504
📞 630.820.3400🛌 Super 8 Motel
📍 4228 Longmeadow Drive, Aurora, IL 60506
📞 630.423.8668
Meet The Team
Contact Us
Previous Year Artist Info
-STARLIGHT PORTALS by Adam Molsky
-WILD CARD CIRCUS by Amy Rooney
-RADIANCE by George Berlin
-DANCES WITH LASERS by Mike Gould
-CIRCLE OF FIFTHS by Robin Vuchnich
-THE CURIOUS AURORA by Miguel Gonzalez
-STUDENT GALLERY by Brittany Harthan
LUMENAURA Videos
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Click here to play video Artist MIKE GOULD MIKE GOULD and his Illuminated Lasers featured during LUMENAURA Fest Weekend at Waubonsee Community College's downtown Aurora Campus!
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Click here to play video Aurora, Are You Ready For LUMENAURA?! Aurora, are you ready for LUMENAURA?! Join us this Fall for an interactive light and sound experience like no other in the heart of Aurora's downtown district.
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Click here to play video LUMENAURA Fest Weekend: An Experience To Remember! LUMENAURA Fest Weekend saw thousands of people visit Downtown Aurora from October 11-13, 2024, enjoying roving entertainment, live music, scavenger hunts, and so much more!
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Click here to play video LUMENAURA Fest Weekend: Free Fun For The Whole Family! October 11-13, 2024 - LUMENAURA Fest Weekend will light up the heart of Downtown Aurora, featuring dancers, jugglers, musicians, and performers. Visitors can also participate in scavenger hunts, light painting, virtual reality drone flights, and hidden portal discovery quests!
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Click here to play video LUMENAURA'S Very Own: Barrel Boy and Family! A collection of sculptures made from 12 opaque plastic 55-gallon drums, Barrel Boy and Family stands as tall as 17 feet high! These playful creations draw inspiration from an eclectic mix of iconic roadside sculptures, such as the Jolly Green Giant, Muffler Man, and Uniroyal Gal.
FAQs
- What is LUMENAURA?
- When and where is LUMENAURA?
- How do I sponsor LUMENAURA?
- Is each night of LUMENAURA the same?
- Do I need a ticket to attend LUMENAURA?
- Are pets allowed at LUMENAURA?
- Will there be food and beverages available at LUMENAURA?
- How do I navigate between each installation?
- Can I view LUMENAURA from my vehicle?
- Do I need to start at a specific location?
- How were the artists, installations, and activities selected for LUMENAURA?