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GardenFest of Lights returns to Lewis Ginter for holiday season

Advanced tickets are required to explore the millions of lights throughout the Garden.

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GardenFest lights up Lewis Ginter throughout the holiday season.

Photo by RICtoday

GardenFest of Lights is back at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden from Monday, Nov. 18 through Wednesday, Jan. 5.

The theme “Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection” brings millions of lights to line garden paths, decorate trees, and form sculptures. Visitors will be able to explore different ecosystems through displays inspired by wetlands, rainforests, deserts, and more.

Bonus: Don’t miss the live tree outside the Conservatory and light tunnel in the Central Garden.

While meandering the gardens, guests can also get warm by the fire, enjoy hot drinks, and examine intricate model trains in the Kelly Education Center.

Get tickets in advance — each night has timed arrivals. There are a number of special nights, including dog-friendly dates and live music on select Tuesdays.

Heads up: The Garden is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas.

Last year, Lewis Ginter topped USA Today’s list of best holiday lights at botanical gardens. The Garden is up for the distinction again this year — voting is open now.

Mark your calendar for these special nights:

GardenFest for Fidos | Select Mondays: November 18, 25, and December 2, 9, 16

Performances | Select Tuesdays

  • Pungmulnori Korean Festive Performance | Tuesday, Nov. 19 | 6-7 p.m. | Main Garden Walk
  • “The Nutcracker” by the Concert Ballet of Virginia | Tuesday, Nov. 26 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Rose Garden
  • Caroling by SPARC touring ensemble | Tuesday, Dec. 3 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Around the Garden
  • Hanover High School | Tuesday, Dec. 10 | 6-8 p.m. | Rose Garden
  • Henrico High School | Tuesday, Dec. 17 | 6-8 p.m. | Rose Garden
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