Each year, as the sun dips behind the rugged peaks framing Revelstoke, British Columbia, the LUNA Art Festival awakens the night and the natural world through art that commands attention. This outdoor celebration pairs the thrill of exploration with immersive art installations, creating an experience that challenges visitors to engage with wilderness in unexpected ways.

The festival spans multiple sites across Revelstoke’s scenic landscapes, from forested clearings to mountain viewpoints. Attendees traverse miles of well-marked trails under the stars, guided by glowing sculptures and visual narratives hatched from light and shadow. While Revelstoke’s terrain is generous to hikers both novice and expert, expect varied footing—roots poking through mossy soil, gravelly patches, and mild elevation shifts that nudge your cardio and balance.

These nature trails usually range from 3 to 6 kilometers roundtrip, with elevation gains around 150 to 300 meters depending on the route chosen. The paths weave through ancient Douglas firs and ponderosa pines, which seem to lean toward the art installations as if to inspect the human creativity sparked in their domain. The nearby Illecillewaet River whispers in the background, daring you onward as it carries its glacier-fed waters toward the Columbia River.

To get the most from LUNA, timing is essential. The festival’s lights emerge against dark, clear nights—arrive early to soak in the daylight hikes and stay for the shifts in perspective after sunset. Footwear should be sturdy but flexible—trail shoes or light hiking boots with good grip handle the diverse terrain while keeping you agile enough to pause and absorb the art.

Hydration is crucial, especially in the cool mountain air that can mask how thirsty you become. Carry water in an easily accessible bottle and dress in breathable layers that allow you to adjust as the temperature dips after dark.

Beyond the art, the festival sparks an encounter with the environment, a dialogue with natural forces that are fiercely indifferent yet welcoming. The forests become more than backdrop—they are active participants, reacting to light and sound, shifting shadows, and the human curiosity that moves through them.

While it’s a celebration, LUNA reminds you that adventure is grounded in respect and preparedness. Be ready for cool mountain breezes, occasional wildlife sightings (mostly owls and bats in the evening), and variable trail conditions. With thoughtful planning, this one-of-a-kind event promises a blend of exhilaration, reflection, and a fresh way to see Revelstoke’s wild side.