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Having all witnessed the devastation caused throughout the island by Storm Ciaran in November we’re sure now, more than ever we have a newfound love and appreciation for our island’s tree stock so it’s fantastic to see after an incredibly successful first year enchanting us all at Howard Davies Park, the Dreaming Trees are back. Free to enter the Park will be illuminated every day from 6pm to 9pm until Saturday 17 February and you can spend as little or as long as you wish immersing yourselves in the magical wonderland created by the team at Wolf Productions.
The Department for Infrastructure and Environment, in association with the Creative Island Partnership and with sponsorship by Rathbones Investment Management International, really want to encourage people to get outside and enjoy the parks this winter at a time when many of us are less likely to stray far from the comfort of our homes. A visit to see the Dreaming Trees is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Jersey’s trees and the scientific research that shows how trees communicate, share resources and react to the world around them using underground connections known as the ‘Wood Wide Web’
The Dreaming Trees team has worked tirelessly come rain or shine for more than 10 days to illuminate the trees within the Park, creating a trail which is further enhanced by a unique soundscape. The magical experience they have created is aimed at helping us to appreciate the beauty of nature while disconnecting from the digital world.
If you were lucky enough to explore the Dreaming Trees last year then this year you’ll be treated to even more illuminated nooks and crannies, many of which are new additions this year. To further enhance the experience you can also buy a special illuminated wristband onsite which will light up and interact with the trail as you explore the Park it’s also reusable when you get home too, acting as a lovely reminder of your visit.
In order to support the initiative and allow those who may not be able to afford to purchase an illuminated wrist band the team at Connect Me have distributed 1,000 of them to a number of charities on the island who will then, in turn, share them with those who will benefit the most.
On Sunday 18 February from 6pm to 8pm, Dreaming Trees will be open for those who will benefit from a quieter experience. Background noise and music will be switched off and the number of visitors will be moderated. This is a free event but you will need to book a ticket as the number of people in the park will be limited. You don’t need to book tickets for anyone under the age of 5.
You can book your tickets for the quiet evening on Sunday 18 February on Eventbrite.
The Connect Me: Connecting our Communities Grant Scheme is a Government of Jersey initiative that provides grants of up to £5,000 for projects which increase opportunities for Jersey residents to participate in arts or physical activities for wellbeing. Since the initiative began they have supported 106 projects engaging more than 25,000 islanders.