“Once Upon a Night” sound and light show and entrance to the Unterlinden Museum

If you’re exploring Colmar during the festive season, the new “Once Upon a Night” sound and light show offers a fresh way to experience the city’s beloved Unterlinden Museum. While we haven’t attended ourselves, the concept sounds intriguing: a 10-minute immersive projection in a historic cloister that aims to breathe new life into the museum’s collections and architecture. It’s a creative blend of art and light, designed to add an extra sparkle to the holiday atmosphere.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is how it combines innovative technology with historic charm—a brilliant way to captivate visitors, especially those already drawn to the museum’s rich history. Plus, it’s free for kids under 12, making it accessible for families. That said, some might find the show a bit short for the price, and the timing could be tight if you’re not planning carefully.

This event seems best suited for visitors who enjoy a quick, visually striking encounter with art and architecture, rather than a full-day museum visit. If you’re in Colmar during the Christmas markets and want a memorable, family-friendly highlight, the “Once Upon a Night” show could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Brief but impactful: The show lasts only 10 minutes but aims to leave a lasting impression.
• Accessible experience: Tickets include access to the museum from 4 to 6 p.m., with multiple showtimes.
• Family-friendly: Free entry for children under 12 makes it suitable for families.
• Historic setting: The projection takes place in a 13th-century cloister, adding a sense of timelessness.
• Limited duration: Some reviews mention the show being quite short, which could feel underwhelming for some.
• Good value for money: Despite concerns about length, many see it as a worthwhile added experience during your museum visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the “Once Upon a Night” Show

The main draw is the 10-minute projection that transforms the museum’s cloister into a canvas of animated art and architecture. Coming at the tail end of the afternoon, the show is designed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the expanded Unterlinden Museum, highlighting the impressive architecture and some of its most iconic works of art.

The experience begins once night falls, casting a different glow over the ancient stones. As you watch, you’ll notice colorful and dynamic animations bringing the cloister and its historical details to life. The projection cleverly integrates the building’s architecture, with elements of the museum’s collection animated in ways that make historical works seem to pulse with energy.

What makes this show appealing is its innovative approach—it’s a combination of artistic projection mapping and storytelling. It aims to make the museum’s historic walls and collections feel alive, offering a fresh perspective that might surprise even seasoned visitors.

The show is scheduled multiple times, starting at 4:45 p.m., with subsequent sessions at 5:00, 5:15, 5:30, and 5:45 p.m. You’ll want to arrive a few minutes early—around 5 minutes before your session—to ensure you don’t miss the start, since the last chance to catch the show is at 5:45 p.m.

The Museum Visit: What You Get with Your Ticket

Your ticket grants access to the Unterlinden Museum itself from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., which is a wonderful way to combine the show with a quick museum visit. Many travelers appreciate that the ticket covers not just the projection, but also the chance to explore the museum’s collections during the early evening hours.

The museum itself is known for its impressive architecture and displays, and the added element of the light show makes it a more dynamic experience. Given that the show is only 10 minutes long, you might find time to browse a few exhibits afterward, especially if you arrive early.

It’s worth noting that the show is free for children under 12, a thoughtful touch that makes it family-friendly. However, keep in mind that the overall experience is relatively short, so if you’re expecting a long, elaborate performance, this might not meet those expectations.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique visual experience: The projection in a historic cloister makes for an immersive moment that elevates the museum visit.
• Accessible timing: Multiple sessions allow flexibility in planning your evening.
• Good value for money: The combination of museum access and the show at a reasonable price makes this a good pick during the holiday season.
• Family-friendly: Free for kids under 12 and suitable for all ages, as long as the show’s brief duration suits your family’s attention span.

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Cons:

• Very short show: Several reviews mention the 10-minute length as being somewhat underwhelming, especially given the ticket price.
• Limited time in the museum: The access window from 4 p.m. might restrict some visitors’ ability to explore more of the museum beforehand.
• Potential crowding: Since multiple shows happen in quick succession, it can get busy, especially during peak holiday times.
• Not suitable for those with epilepsy: The show features dynamic lighting and animations, which could be problematic for sensitive viewers.

The Bottom Line

If you’re in Colmar during the festive period, and you’re looking for a quick, visually engaging experience that combines art, history, and technology, the “Once Upon a Night” show offers a nice, short highlight of the city’s cultural scene. It’s especially appealing if you’re already planning to visit the Unterlinden Museum, as it adds a special evening dimension to your trip.

However, if you’re expecting a lengthy, elaborate spectacle, you might be disappointed by how brief the show is. The ticket price seems reasonable considering it includes museum access, but some might feel it’s a bit overpriced for just 10 minutes of animation. That said, the experience’s uniqueness and the historic setting give it a certain charm that’s worth experiencing—particularly if you’re traveling with children or want a fun, family-friendly activity.

This event is best suited for those who appreciate a combination of art, history, and modern visual effects in a beautiful setting, and who are flexible with timing. It’s a memorable way to cap off a day exploring Colmar’s Christmas markets and cultural highlights.

FAQ

Is the show suitable for children?
Yes, the show is free for kids under 12 and generally suitable for children, especially since the projection is colorful and dynamic. Just keep in mind it lasts only 10 minutes.

What time does the show start?
The main sessions are at 4:45 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 5:15 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 5:45 p.m. Arrive at least 5 minutes early to make sure you don’t miss it.

Can I visit the museum before the show?
Yes, your ticket grants access to the museum from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., so you can explore the exhibits before or after the show, depending on your timing.

Is the show held inside or outside?
The projection is in the cloister, a historic outdoor space within the museum grounds, which creates a charming atmosphere but also means you should dress appropriately for the weather.

How long is the museum open for visitors?
The museum is accessible from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., aligning with the show’s schedule.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour and show are wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

What language is the show in?
Some content is shown in its original language, which might be relevant for non-French speakers. The visual aspect is the main focus, so language barriers are minimal.

Will I need to prepare anything in advance?
Simply book your ticket ahead of time; no extra preparation is necessary. Arrive a few minutes early to ensure a good viewing spot.

Is this experience suitable during winter or cold weather?
Since the projection takes place outdoors in the cloister, dress warmly in winter months, especially if temperatures drop in the evening.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a quick, visually engaging addition to your Colmar visit that marries history and modern tech, the “Once Upon a Night” show is worth considering. It’s a short but charming experience that adds a bit of magic to the holiday season, especially in such a historic setting. Just keep expectations aligned with its length and scope, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile little highlight.

You can check availability for your dates here: