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Date
3 to 19 July
Time
5.30 to 10.30pm nightly
Location
Forecourt, North Tce (Front of the Spence Wing)
Cost
Free, bookings not required
About the presenter

Illuminate Adelaide

State Library Supports

As winter’s chill settles in, City Lights returns bigger than ever to transform Adelaide’s city streets and parklands into a radiant wonderland, rekindling the city’s spirit with an all-new series of FREE installations. Now a beloved annual tradition, this vibrant event invites everyone to wander, wonder, and rediscover Adelaide’s secrets in a mesmerising glow.

From 3 to 19 July, immerse yourself in 17 nights of awe-inspiring experiences, interactive artworks, and dynamic projections that stretch from North Terrace to the vibrant Rundle Street all the way through to Rymill Park Lake – expanding to the East parklands for the first time!

Stop by the State Library and experience ...

Bob the Railway Dog

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illuminart - Stories in Light • Australia
State Library of South Australia Forecourt

Bob the Railway Dog


Discover beloved railway legend Bob the Railway Dog riding into Illuminate Adelaide!

The State Library of South Australia Forecourt becomes a moving train, telling the true tale of the stray dog sent north in 1884 who became South Australian Railways’ most famous free-riding passenger – adored by workers across the state.

Supported by: The Advertiser

 

City Lights Pitstop: State Library of South Australia

State Library of South Australia Forecourt

Mortlock Wing during Illuminate 2025


Make a pit stop at the State Library of South Australia Forecourt on your City Lights journey through the streets of Adelaide. Refresh on North Terrace with a curated mix of pop-up bites and treats to keep hands warm and spirits high, or step inside for a hot drink at the Library café, with cosy foyer seating, toilets, and open amenities.

While you’re inside, explore Pull Pop Push in the gallery, a playful exhibition of movable books that surprise and delight as they unfold before your eyes.

A meeting spot, or a place to take five before moving along the glowing City Lights trail.

 

Piano Walk

Amigo & Amigo • Australia
Institute Building, State Library of South Australia, North Terrace

Piano Walk by Amigo & Amigo


Piano Walk by Amigo & Amigo is a musical adventure where you’re the star! With 40 interactive keys to play, jump on the oversized piano and create beautiful music with your fellow City Lights adventurers. Every 5 minutes a new original composition plays, making this collaborative experience a fun journey for everyone involved.

Music Composer OTIS and John McHugh

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include  study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.