LOTUS Illuminated Art Installation at Paddleboat Quarry

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp along the Naperville Riverwalk, a new glow rises from the water at Paddleboat Quarry. On view since September 26 and through Saturday, October 24, 2026, Naperville ArtForum hosts the first U.S. presentation of LOTUS, an immersive installation of towering luminous lotus blossoms created by French artist Nicolas Paolozzi of MODULE.

Whether you’re a longtime resident looking for a fresh evening stroll or a visitor exploring downtown Naperville, this free exhibit invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect amid the familiar beauty of the Riverwalk.

Why You Can’t Miss LOTUS Illuminated Art Installation at Paddleboat Quarry

LOTUS transforms the Paddleboat Quarry into a place of quiet wonder. Six large-scale translucent lotus structures, each about 13 feet wide and 11 feet high, float on the water and come alive with gentle illumination after sunset until 10 p.m. Inspired by the flower’s symbolism of resilience and renewal, the installation uses the quarry’s surface as a natural mirror, so each glowing blossom is reflected on the water.

What to Expect

ArtForum describes the installation as evoking flowers that open during the day and close at night, with the natural light of the landscape creating illusions. After sunset the translucent forms glow softly above the water. Visitors are invited to pause, reflect, and reconnect with both nature and one another.

• First U.S. showing of LOTUS
• Six structures, each roughly 13 feet wide by 11 feet high, sit on floating docks
• Lit after sunset until 10 p.m.

One of the Best Free Things to Do in Naperville This Weekend

With its central location on the Riverwalk in downtown Naperville, LOTUS fits easily into an evening out. Stroll from the quarry toward the shops and restaurants along Main Street, or combine your visit with a walk past nearby landmarks such as Centennial Beach or Naper Settlement. The installation is on view through Saturday, October 24, so there is still time to plan an evening visit.

Plan Your Visit

Paddleboat Quarry sits at 441 Aurora Ave, right on the Naperville Riverwalk. Admission is free: the City of Naperville event calendar lists LOTUS as free and open to the public and a fall arts experience for all ages. The installation is lit after sunset until 10 p.m. Bring a camera and dress for the October evening chill.

• Address: 441 Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL
• Lighting active after sunset until 10 p.m.
• Presented by Naperville ArtForum in partnership with the Naperville Park District and the Naperville Riverwalk

LOTUS offers a simple, beautiful way to celebrate fall in Naperville. Whether you visit once or return for another look, the installation adds a memorable layer of light and reflection to the Riverwalk you already love.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• When: On view September 26 through Saturday, October 24, 2026; lit after sunset until 10 p.m.
• Admission: Free and open to the public, per the City of Naperville event calendar
• Where: Paddleboat Quarry, Naperville Riverwalk
• Address: 441 Aurora Ave, Naperville, IL, United States
• Organizer: Naperville ArtForum

Dates, times, and pricing can change. Confirm the latest details on the official event page before making plans.

Looking for more? Explore other things to do in Naperville or browse the full Naperville events calendar.