GardenFest of Lights 2026-2027
November 23 - January 3
2026-2027 Ticket Info
Stay tuned! Tickets for the 2026-2027 GardenFest of Lights are expected to go live on October 1st.
A NEW WORLD OF WONDER AWAITS
Where will your imagination take you this holiday season?
Step into the Otherworldly at GardenFest of Lights, where fantastical creatures, whimsical tales, and faraway worlds come to life in millions of twinkling lights. Wander through landscapes inspired by ancient legends, beloved stories, and imagined futures, with delightful surprises waiting around every corner.
From the pages of a fairy tale to the far reaches of the galaxy, there’s a whole world of wonder waiting to be discovered. Gather your favorite people and experience the magic of GardenFest together!
Discover More at GardenFest
There’s more to GardenFest than meets the eye! Follow the glow of millions of lights through the Garden, where enchanting displays, playful surprises, and festive experiences await around every corner.
This year, discover even more as GardenFest extends into our new gardens and expanded Conservatory. Along the way, enjoy some of your favorite holiday traditions and find a few new ones to make your own.
LITTLE WORLDS OF WONDER
Step inside the Conservatory Exhibition Hall to discover our enchanting Fairy Village, lovingly crafted by Garden volunteers. Then, follow the tracks to our model train displays, where miniature worlds bring big smiles to visitors of all ages.
A TASTE OF THE HOLIDAYS
Take a break from exploring to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, enjoy a seasonal treat or gather around the fire pit for s’mores. With food and beverages available throughout the Garden, there’s plenty to savor along the way.
A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA
Find something special for everyone on your list at the Garden Shop! Browse a delightful selection of unique gifts, seasonal treasures, and Garden-inspired finds for the people you love. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or a little something for yourself, you’re sure to find something worth taking home.
SPECIAL NIGHTS
GARDENFEST FOR GROWNUPS
Who says kids get to have all the fun? Gather your friends or plan a special date night at GardenFest for Grownups! Enjoy an adults-only evening filled with dazzling lights, whimsical displays and a little extra magic, all without the little ones.
December 2nd, 3rd, and 30th
GARDENFEST FOR FIDOS
Bring your favorite four-legged friend along for a tail-wagging adventure! On select Monday evenings, well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited to explore the twinkling lights and whimsical wonders of GardenFest with their humans.
November 23rd and 30th
December 7th, 14th, and 28th
Please read our rules and guidelines for visiting Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with dogs.
A LITTLE EXTRA MAGIC FOR MEMBERS
Garden members enjoy even more ways to experience the wonder of GardenFest, including exclusive preview nights and complimentary admission on select evenings. Not a member yet? Explore the benefits of Garden membership and join in the fun!
Members-Only Preview Weekend
NOVEMBER 20TH - 22ND
ADDITIONAL FREE NIGHTS FOR MEMBERS
November 23rd and 24th
December 30th (GardenFest for Grownups, ages 18+)
January 1st, 2nd, and 3rd
Advanced online ticket reservations are required for all complimentary members nights
PERFORMANCE NIGHTS
Add a little extra sparkle to your GardenFest visit! Enjoy special performances by talented local musicians and entertainers on select evenings as you explore the Garden's dazzling displays.
November 18th
December 1st, 8th, and 15th
Performers and performance times will be announced soon. Check back for updates!
GARDENFEST TICKETS
Choose the night that works best for you and plan ahead for your GardenFest visit! Tickets are limited for each arrival window, and popular dates and times can sell out quickly.
Purchasing Tickets
Purchasing TicketsAdvance online ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. A limited number of walk-up tickets may be available, but same-day admission is not guaranteed and additional fees apply.
GardenFest uses peak and non-peak pricing, so ticket prices vary depending on the date you choose.
All-Weather Event
All-Weather EventA little winter weather doesn’t stop the lights! GardenFest takes place rain, shine, or snow. Please dress for the weather and come ready to explore.
All GardenFest tickets are non-refundable.
Plans Change. Ticket Insurance Can Help.
Plans Change. Ticket Insurance Can Help.Optional Ticket Insurance is available when you purchase your tickets. Insurance allows you to move your tickets once to another available date and/or arrival time.
Ticket Insurance must be purchased at checkout and is non-transferable. All tickets remain non-refundable, with or without insurance.
When You Arrive
When You ArriveHave your ticket QR code, confirmation email, or order number ready when you arrive. If you created an account when purchasing your tickets, you can also log in to access them.
PARKING
PARKINGGardenFest is one of our most popular events, so parking can be busy, especially on peak nights. Parking at the Garden is limited. Carpooling from home or a meeting spot is encouraged, and rideshare is another great option.
Please allow extra time for your arrival. Our team works to keep traffic moving and help guests park as spaces become available.
Running late because of parking or traffic? Don’t worry. If delays at the Garden cause you to miss your scheduled arrival window, our team will work with you when you arrive.
Prepare for Your Adventure
A little planning can make your GardenFest experience even brighter. Find answers to frequently asked questions and everything you need to know before you go.
FOOD & DRINK
All that exploring can work up an appetite! Warm up with a cozy drink, grab a bite to eat, or add a sweet treat to your GardenFest adventure. Food and beverage options are available throughout the Garden, so you can refuel along the way.
GardenFest Cafe
Stop in for a bite before heading back out into the lights. The GardenFest Café offers casual dining and grab-and-go options, making it an easy stop during your evening.
Jingle Bar & Grill
Follow the lights into the Asian Valley and make a stop at the Jingle Bar & Grill. Grab something to eat, warm up with hot chocolate, or enjoy an adult beverage before continuing your GardenFest adventure.
Make sure to stop by our mini Jingle Bar on Mimi’s Way for a pick-me-up!
Espresso-A-Go-Go
Feeling chilly? Stop by Espresso-A-Go-Go for hot chocolate and coffee. S’mores kits are also available for a fireside treat.
More Ways to Dine
*NEW* Holiday Dining Experience:
Make an evening of it with a seasonal sit-down meal before or after exploring the lights.
December 14th & 15th , 21st & 22nd and 31st
Brunch with Santa:
Enjoy a festive weekend brunch and a special visit with Santa.
December 5th & 6th, 12th & 13th, 19th & 20th
Dinner with Santa:
Fill your evening with extra cheer. Enjoy dinner and a visit with Santa before exploring the lights.
December 20th & 21st
GardenFest Dining for Groups:
Celebrating with a crowd? Groups of 15 or more can book buffet dinners in advance on select Monday evenings.
For More Dining Experiences including Holiday Rentals, please visit Holiday Events and Private Parties.
Become a Member for the Best Value
Enjoy free admission on Member Nights! Receive special discounted pricing on all other nights.