In 2026, the autumn fountain festival at the Peterhof Museum Reserve will take place on September 26 and 27 as a full-scale celebration. This year’s theme is “Happiness,” and the festival is dedicated to the 200th anniversary of Alexandria and memories of childhood. Instead of a single show, visitors can expect themed installations throughout the Lower Park, with each day culminating in a multimedia performance and fireworks at the Grand Cascade.
What the Peterhof Autumn Fountain Festival Used to Be Like
For many years, Peterhof drew crowds for a large-scale show at the Grand Cascade. Performers took the stage, music filled the park, and lasers sometimes lit up the night. The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the darkening sky.
What to Expect at This Year’s Fountain Festival
This year, the festival will once again follow the format tried in previous years — a full-day event with a program running throughout the day.
- runs from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.;
- takes place at several locations throughout the Lower Park;
- each festival day ends with a multimedia performance and fireworks;
- includes activities for different age groups, from children to adults.
The theme of the 2026 festival is “Happiness.” It is dedicated to the 200th anniversary of Alexandria. According to the organizers, Alexandria became a place closely associated with childhood and family life. The Romanov family’s seaside residence became a setting for games and childhood discoveries for four generations of the imperial family. Festival guests are invited to recall their own childhood dreams, aspirations, and experiences.
The festival will unfold throughout the Lower Park, from Marley to Monplaisir. This will be more than just a walk through the park: light and sound installations will create an immersive atmosphere throughout the grounds.
Each day will culminate in a multimedia performance with fireworks at the Grand Cascade. The show begins at 8:30 p.m., with spectators gathering in the designated viewing areas of the Lower Park starting at 8:00 p.m. The performance will last 30 minutes.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Tickets cost 3,000 rubles. No discounts are available. Children age 6 and under can enter free of charge when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.
Tickets are already on sale through the museum’s official website. On the day of the festival, tickets may also be available at the Lower Park ticket offices, subject to availability. An admission ticket is valid for one entry only — you will need to purchase a new ticket if you leave and want to come back in.
Tour operators offer package tours that include admission to the festival. Last year, tours with transportation from St. Petersburg started at around 6,500 rubles.
Our recommendations. Dress warmly — it can be chilly in Peterhof in late September, especially in the evening. Arrive early so you have plenty of time to explore the park and avoid the lines.
Read our guide on how to get to Peterhof.
If you plan to take a hydrofoil, check the weather forecast beforehand: services may be canceled in strong winds or rough seas. It is best to buy your tickets in advance, as they may sell out on the day of the festival.
Photo credit: The Peterhof State Museum