Discover the Magic of Bioluminescence

This holiday season, explore the science behind Earth’s glowing wonders in Living Light, a daily drop-in experience in the Earth Rangers Studio that brings the phenomenon of bioluminescence to life. From December 26 to January 4, visitors can step into an immersive environment filled with whimsical light-producing organisms—an imaginative re-creation of the natural world that captures the beauty and mystery of creatures that make their own light. 

Families are invited to search the space for glowing organisms, discovering what makes them shine and why light plays such a vital role in their survival.  

Through this playful seek-and-find activity, visitors learn how fireflies communicate, how deep-sea animals navigate pitch-black waters, and why some fungi glow on forest floors. The program blends science, storytelling, and creativity, turning the gallery into a mini-universe of illumination. 

Living Light encourages curiosity and wonder, offering something new to discover with each visit. Staff facilitators will be on hand to guide conversations, share fun facts, and help visitors connect what they’re seeing to the broader natural world. 

Together with other hands-on programs such as Shark Sleuths on Level 2 and lantern-making on Level 1, Living Light rounds out a museum-wide celebration of winter, creativity, and discovery. It’s a perfect stop for families seeking memorable activities during the holiday break. 

ROM for the Holidays is presented by BASF Canada. 

Melissa Smith is AVP, Gallery Engagement at ROM.