Illawarra's popular Enchanted Forest unveils theme for this winter's light show

This year, the Blackbutt Forest installation - which delighted families with its space-themed walk in 2024 -will have an underwater ocean concept called the Tides of Treasure.

According to the organisers, there will be new interactive zones, reimagined light displays, custom soundscapes and pulsating special effects, inspired by the coast of Shellharbour.

Kids - and grown-ups - who walk through the Enchanted Forest will be able to find a lost key to unlock the treasure chest at the bottom of the ocean, while the light projections will be inspired by mysteries of the deep blue sea.

There will be holograms of sea creatures, interactive projections and light-reactive spheres that react to touch, while the "glow of bioluminescence" will interact with guests' movement.

The organisers have also promised "a dreamy mist-filled ocean with floating, ethereal sea life".

This will be the third year for the event, which attracted more than 66,000 people in its first year, and almost as many in its second year despite the event being delayed by rain.

This year it will run from May 30 to June 22, with tickets on sale on Tuesday April 15.

Organisers recommend allowing 45 minutes to 1.25 hours for the walk, which has sessions starting from 5.15pm to 9pm.

Tickets cost $10.50 for kids, $16.50 for adults or $43.50 for a family pass, and there are dedicated low-sensory sessions early in the evening.