Contact Trail of Lights

The 2026 Durban Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights takes place on the following dates:

• 09 – 24 December 2026
• 26 – 30 December 2026
• 01 – 02 January 2027

Event runs nightly from 18h00 – 22h00. The Trail is closed on 25 and 31 December.

• Tickets are priced from R50 – R95pp (online), depending on ticket type and time slot booked.
• Tickets are available via:
  • www.webtickets.co.za
  • Pick n Pay or Boxer stores
  • Durban Botanic Gardens Information Centre (9am – 4pm)

Early Bird Special: Save on all tickets purchased before 31 October 2026.

Children aged 2 years and under enter free when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Yes. Tickets for previous years sold out quickly, so we strongly recommend purchasing in  advance to avoid disappointment. Attendance is capped nightly to ensure a pleasant  experience.

• There are two entry time slots each night: 18h00 and 19h30.
• Your time slot is the earliest time you may enter the event.
• Once inside, you may stay until closing at 22h00.
• If you arrive after your time slot, you will still be allowed in, but entry before your slot is not permitted.

No. Tickets are only valid for the date purchased.

• If severe weather forces an official cancellation, ticket holders will be notified via  SMS and social media and refunds or reschedules offered.
• Tickets may be rescheduled within 24 hours (subject to availability) via Webtickets.  
• The event continues in light/moderate rain—please dress accordingly. Umbrellas,  ponchos, and shoe covers will be available for sale onsite.

Yes. Parking is available at the uMphafa field and the Visitors Complex entrance at R40  per vehicle.  

• Parking is limited and fills quickly.  
• If parking in nearby neighbourhoods, please be respectful and park legally.  
• Durban Botanic Gardens is not responsible for tickets/fines or incidents outside the  venue. 

• We promote a cashless environment with tickets, merchandise and grotto sales all  being cashless.  
• Card and electronic payment options available: Zapper, SnapScan, debit/credit  cards.  
• No ATMs onsite.

Yes! Our Two Food Gardens feature a wide variety of artisanal vendors offering:

• Halaal-friendly meals
• Vegetarian options  
• Sweet and savoury treats

No outside food, drinks, or alcohol will be allowed inside the venue.

• Comfortable shoes with good grip.  
• Dress for the weather—this is an outdoor event.  
• Umbrellas are allowed.

Yes. The Trail and event areas are 100% wheelchair and pram accessible.

• Pets are not permitted on most nights.
• Paws n Claus Night: On 10 December 2026, furry family members are welcome! Pet tickets are R60 each, with proceeds donated to charity.
• Registered service dogs are allowed on all nights (documentation is required).

Prohibited items include:  

• Weapons, firearms, ammunition  
• Food, drinks, alcohol  
• Illegal substances  
• Glow merchandise  
• Bicycles, balls, balloons, glass, gazebos  
• Animals (except service dogs or on Paws n Claus night)

• Personal photography and filming are encouraged! Share your experience with  #DBGTOL.  
• Professional/commercial shoots rare not permitted.  
• No blocking entrances or features, no tripods/large setups allowed.

Vendor calls are posted on our official social media platforms early each year. Applications for 2026 are now closed. Watch our pages for 2027 opportunities.

2026 marks 10 Years of Wonder, with the theme “A Whole New World to Discover”.

• A brand-new world to discover: we’ve reimagined the Trail with new installations and immersive experiences.
• Expanded food and retail offerings.
• Kids’ activities and festive characters.

The Trail of Lights is the largest annual fundraiser for the Durban Botanic Gardens  Trust, supporting garden upkeep, conservation, and community programmes. Proceeds  from charity activations also benefit local NPOs.

Please contact us via:  

• General Event or Media Enquiries – info@trailoflights.co.za
• Ticket related Enquiries – info@webtickets.co.za