This is such a cute snow globe! I’ve never had one where I don’t need to shake it to see snow, it does it automatically! This globe takes 3 AA batteries (not included) and when it’s turned on, it will be on a timer for five hours. It lights up during the entire five hours, and then every couple minutes, the snow will swirl all around for about 15 seconds, and then keep repeating throughout the five hour timer. I love it!