Trick or Treat: I took my family to GlasGLOW at the Botanic Gardens - here is what you can expect

One of the best things about GlasGLOW is its location at the heart of things in the West End. There’s a sense of anticipation as you walk up Byres Road and see the searchlights criss-crossing the sky and shapes projected onto the spire of the nearby Oran Mor.

85,000 attendees are expected to visit this year’s Trick or Treat event that will run until 10th November. Extra tickets were added today for Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st October to keep up with demand around Halloween.

Before we delve into the event, some background: GlasGLOW was created and is written each year, by Oli Norman, founder of Glasgow based itison and local West End dad of three.

Oli had the idea for GlasGLOW in 2010, taking inspiration from major light shows taking place in Botanic Gardens around the world and in 2018, the first GlasGLOW took place, a themed route through the park with visual attractions. They say: “The goal for GlasGLOW is to spread joy and light up the city up during the dark months, boost the local economy at a traditionally quiet period of the year.”

This year’s trail begins with a dramatic walk through neon, doors and lights that begins a slow walk through ten different sections decorated around a theme. We liked the pumpkin patch that featured decorated lanterns from local schools. The kids shouted ‘wow’ as we spotted large moon shapes and than an illuminated balloon inspired by the film Up. The soundtrack ebbs and flows, there are some characters in costume to direct you on the way and an optional clown area which leans into the Halloween aspect of the season.

Oli Norman is responsible for the majority of marshmallow sales in Scotland between this event and other seasonal extravaganzas. We enjoyed roasting the marshmallows over an open fire and then eating the molten sweets off a stick.

The route can be approached at a sedate pace with different eye-catching features and displays set within the trees and plants of the gardens which are lit to add their own majestic atmosphere to proceedings.

It all finishes up with an immersive lawn show with pulsating music and the fantastic backdrop of the Kibble Palace that has an otherworldy appearance as part of the light display. This is the point the family all look forward to where we can take a bit of time to explore the street food village. This year we tries pizza by Mangiamo and churros from Loop & Scoop. Pokes of chips from the Fries Guys were popular on the night, alongside fried chicken from Dirty Bird.

GlasGLOW is for anyone who loves a great night out, a fun picture opportunity and who wants to discover Glasgow’s beautiful Botanic Gardens in a new light.  

Limited tickets available at glasglow.com.

Here is some information to help you plan your tip.

Can you use cash at GlasGLOW?

It is card only payments at the food and drink village – cash is not accepted by any vendors.

What are the times for GlasGLOW?

Monday - Thursday 5pm - 8.30pm (last entry)

Friday - Saturday 5pm - 9.30pm (last entry)

Sunday 5pm - 9pm (last entry)

Time slots are every 15 minutes from 5pm (and a 6pm start before the clocks change on Friday 27 October and Saturday 28 October).

How can you get to GlasGLOW?

GlasGLOW recommend getting to the event by walking, train or bus, as parking is extremely limited.

Subway

The closest subway stations are Hillhead and Kelvinbridge, just a few minutes walk from the Botanic Gardens. Park and Ride is also available from Bridge Street, Kelvinbridge and Shields Road subway stations.

Train

The nearest train stations are Partick and Hyndland, approximately a 20-minute walk from the Botanic Gardens, with services running regularly throughout the day from both Glasgow Central and Glasgow Queen Street.

Bus

There are plenty of buses running from the City Centre to stops right outside the Botanic Gardens. For more information on a specific route, visit the link below.

Car

There are parking restrictions in nearby streets and Parking Enforcement Officers will be in operation. The nearest car park is a few minutes walk away at Lilybank Gardens, just off Ashton Lane, and there is another at Kelvinbridge Subway Station. There’s also a taxi rank just outside the Botanic Gardens.

What should I wear to GlasGLOW?

Get your favourite warm coat on and wrap up cosy – it’s going to be cold! The route is fully outdoors so make sure you check the weather and bring a hat or brolly.

The route is on hardstanding ground but we’d recommend sensible footwear – high heels don’t fare well in the Botanics!

Please stick to the paths at all times.

Can I bring a bag to GlasGLOW?

Small bags are allowed, but please remember no alcohol will be permitted – there is a bar at the show where you can grab a drink. Bags may be searched by security.

The event will go ahead unless Glasgow is experiencing extreme weather conditions.

Make sure you check the weather report and dress appropriately before heading out.