An immersive experience at San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral is shedding new light on one of the city's most beloved and beautiful landmarks.

Aura doesn’t just illuminate the building, says the Very Rev. Dr. Malcolm Clemens Young, dean of Grace Cathedral. “This city is known for innovation and artistry, and bringing this experience here feels like the perfect way to celebrate both. From the moment the first notes echo through the cathedral, audiences will feel transported.”

After inviting you to send light from your seat to the domes of the cathedral—and who doesn’t want an opportunity to shine their own light?—the ceiling seems to open up, revealing the natural world and the elements. Think thunderstorms, fire, raindrops, crashing waves, redwood trees, blue skies, blossoms, stars, and eventually animals native to the Bay Area.

In Aura, shadowy singers, organ music, lights, and lasers showcase the church’s gorgeous Gothic architecture and stained glass.(Courtesy of Aura/Moment Factory)

Shadowy singers, organ music, lights, and lasers showcase the church’s gorgeous Gothic architecture and stained glass in a 45-minute IMAX-meets-drone show that brings the audience together.

Before the odyssey begins, visitors are invited to discover the site’s history and architectural details using an interactive web app. Then, the landmark is reimagined with original music, illusion, lighting effects, and breathtaking projection mapping.

The multisensory experience created by international multimedia studio Moment Factory and co-presented by global live entertainment discovery platform Fever has been praised by audiences in Montreal and Paris for its ability to move, inspire, and create a sense of awe. The company behind it hopes Aura will have the same impact here in San Francisco.

Before the odyssey begins, visitors are invited to discover the site’s history and architectural details using an interactive web app.(Courtesy of Aura/Moment Factory)

“When we first launched Aura in Montreal in 2017, we were amazed by the audience’s reaction. The orchestration of light, music, heritage, and cutting-edge technology created a deeply moving experience,” says Sakchin Bessette, co-founder and executive creative director at Moment Factory.

“After bringing Aura to Paris at the Dôme des Invalides, we are now honored to transform San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral into a must-see nighttime destination—infusing new energy and life into this historic landmark,” he continues. “This extraordinary canvas, with its soaring arches and rich history, offers a rare opportunity to craft moments of magic. Visitors will leave feeling inspired, with a profound sense of connection—to the cathedral and to one another.”

All in all, Aura is a beautiful way to showcase Grace Cathedral in a way that is artistic, cultural, and appropriate for all ages to enjoy.