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Lektrik offers a 1-mile-long trail of glowing wonders to explore. 

Visiting Lektrik at QBG: The Basics

The lights turn on at 5pm after the sun sets, so even the littlest adventurers can feel like big kids staying up late. Because the event is outdoors, well-behaved four-legged family members can come along. Additionally, QBG is ADA-compliant, so everyone can enjoy the experience along the well-maintained paved paths.

Upon entering the garden through a glowing green archway, guests can buy hot chocolate or popcorn to keep warm and fueled throughout your adventure. Plan to spend 1-1 1/2 hours exploring as you're amazed by giant-eyed cats and dogs, a bright teapot even bigger than a nearby colorful elephant, mechanized birds flapping their wings, and a tunnel of lights primed for pictures.

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Lektrik at the Queens Botanical Garden requires timed-entry tickets to see the stunning light sculptures. 

Though event descriptions promised acrobats, artisan vendors, craft cocktails, and ambient music, none of those were available during my family’s 7:30pm jaunt through Lektrik opening weekend. That said, the experience amazes without any additional bells or whistles. Away from the looming skyscrapers of the city, surrounded by surreal sculptures in the open garden space, you feel as if you’ve entered another world. On a clear night, you may even see a star or two—or is that a plane departing JFK? No matter. It all makes for magical memories even into March.

Tickets are timed entry and can be purchased online in advance. Queens Botanical Garden members qualify for a 15% discount, but all can enjoy discounted prices for 4-12-year-olds, seniors, students, and members of the military. There’s even a family bundle. If you arrive without tickets, scan the QR code at the Crommelin Street entrance to make on-the-spot purchases, if tickets are available.

More Fun Near Lektrik at QBG

Travel like a true New Yorker and take the 7 train to the Flushing-Main Street stop—the garden is a quick 15-minute walk through a gleaming neighborhood that offers endless options for Chinese dinner after the main event, as well as unique shops to delight the kiddos.

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Grab some hot cocoa and popcorn before you embark on your night walk at Lektrik.

Know Before You Go to Lektrik

• The event runs Wednesday-Sunday from 5-10pm through Sunday, March 23.
• Timed-entry tickets should be booked online in advance, although you may scan the QR code at the entrance to purchase a last-minute ticket or add on parking ($35).
• Lektrik is an all-outdoor experience, so plan to bundle up.
• There are trailer port-a-potties at the entrance, plus a snack bar with hot chocolate and popcorn.
• As it is an after-hours event, only a small part of the Queens Botanical Garden is open.
• While the path is well-lit, the ground can be uneven in spots, so holding hands is recommended.

Photos by the author