Lichterzauber im Blühenden Barock Ludwigsburg

A Summer Evening in the Baroque Garden

Blühendes Barock in Ludwigsburg, with its 30 hectares of gardens and parkland, is one of the most famous palace gardens in Southern Germany. Once a year, on a Saturday in August, this setting is transformed into a magical landscape of light: Lichterzauber has captivated families from Stuttgart, the Ludwigsburg district, and all of Baden-Württemberg for decades. The programme begins early – precisely at 2 p.m. – and gradually builds into an atmospheric evening event that concludes around 10 p.m.

Model Boats, Lanterns, Light Procession

The event kicks off with model boat enthusiasts at the South Lake pond. Until 9 p.m., you can admire detailed replicas of ships, from small sailboats to recreated ocean liners. Simultaneously, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Hahn's Garden next to the Orangery opens its doors for the lantern workshop: parents and children craft their own lights from paper and wire, which will later be carried in the grand procession through the park.

At 8 p.m., the lantern procession begins its journey. Hundreds of homemade and brought-along lanterns move through the Upper East Garden, past the Fairy Tale Trail and around Schüsselesee lake. The sight of the many small lights amidst the baroque hedges, as dusk descends – this is the moment when it becomes clear why this festival bears its name.

Pyrotechnics at the Emichsburg

The highlight follows around 9:30 p.m.: at the recreated Emichsburg in the Lower East Garden, a specially composed light and music performance of about 15 minutes begins. Gentle lighting, modern LED elements, and solar-powered lights merge with the music to create a sound and visual choreography. Instead of a classic fireworks display, Lichterzauber increasingly focuses on sustainable, quiet, and animal-friendly light concepts – a conscious shift that benefits the park and its inhabitants (including the famous Fairy Tale Garden zoo).

Families, Gastronomy, and Atmosphere

Throughout the day, the park's eateries are open: from Café Olé and the Orangery to the Bistro am Märchengarten. Picnicking on the lawns is expressly permitted – a blanket and a few snacks are enough to fully enjoy the day. Dogs are welcome on a short leash; larger bags are subject to random checks; knives and excessive amounts of alcohol are not permitted.

Tradition with Radiance Throughout the District

For many years, Lichterzauber has been a staple summer event in the Ludwigsburg district. For many families in the region, the second or third Saturday in August is firmly reserved – and has long been more than just for the Ludwigsburg locals. Visitors travel from Stuttgart, Heilbronn, Pforzheim, and even from Alsace to experience this unique blend of historical garden art, participatory activities, and evening light installations.