Lights & Displays

The 2022-2023 Theme is Seeds of Light

Part of the magic of winter nights is how a twinkle of light can transform the darkness. In the natural world, seeds hold a similar mystical power. So tiny, yet so mighty, seeds are the “spark of life” containing the secrets of a never-ending creation. This year, Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights celebrates their wonder with the theme: “Seeds of Light.” Through the sparkle of more than a half-million lights, imaginative displays, and memorable experiences, GardenFest takes inspiration from seeds and fruits to reveal an interconnected world of incredible diversity, amazing strategies, and enduring beauty. Light up your nights this holiday season with a visit to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

• Millions of lights line garden paths and twinkle in trees under the night sky. Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights is a walk-through experience designed so you and your loved ones and friends can relax, have fun and make special memories in a magical outdoor setting. 

FAMILIAR FAVORITES RETURN

• A 22-foot-tall, cut, live tree in the Conservatory. Decked out in a botanical theme, this tree promises to be a favorite photo opportunity.
• Model trains return to the Kelly Education Center nightly 4-9:30 p.m.
  
• Trees decorated by Henrico County Public Schools students brighten the Lora Robins Library; botanical decorations also grace the cozy Library Reading Room.
• The Kelleher Warming Fire in the Children’s Garden is a great spot to warm up, drink hot chocolate, and roast s’mores (available for purchase at the nearby Carriage House).

Special Nights

FREE NIGHTS FOR MEMBERS

• FREE Member Nights: Jan. 2-8

GARDENFEST FOR FIDOS
Leashed dogs allowed for GardenFest for Fidos Night on Monday, Jan. 2

LIVE MUSIC

• Thursday, Jan. 5; 6-8 p.m. Lucy Kilpatrick and Ken Kellner – Holiday Jazz (Tea House)

GardenFest Map

Click on the GardenFest Map image (JPG) above to view or download it in a higher resoultion.

Portions of the Children’s Garden are not part of this year’s show as we work on two exciting new projects: a brand-new WaterPlay and enhancements to the Klaus Family Tree House. Thank you for understanding as we bring you these wonderful improvements in 2023!

Food & Drink

The Restaurant at Lewis Ginter (Garden Cafe) has sit-down dining; the Jingle Bar and Grill (Tea House) has grab and go casual fare and a bar.

The Restaurant at Lewis Ginter (location: Garden Cafe)
Nov. 25-Dec. 18: Thursdays-Sundays only
Dec. 19-Jan. 1: Nightly
Open 5-8:30 p.m.; last reservation at 8:30 p.m.
Make your GardenFest visit extra special with a festive holiday dinner.  Reservations are highly recommended and are online only through OpenTable. *When making a reservation, please make sure that you book your GardenFest tickets first before choosing a time for dining.

Jingle Bar & Grill (location: Tea House)
Nov. 21-Jan. 8
Open 4:30-9 p.m. (serving alcohol until 8:30 p.m.)
Your “go-to” for food and drink at GardenFest. The Tea House offers grab and go items such sandwiches, soups, salads and snacks. Drinks include sodas and water, plus adult beverages. Items are packaged so that you may enjoy them as you walk through the lights.

On Select Nights: Jingle Bar (location: Cochrane Rose Garden)
Dec. 16, 17, 21, 26-31; Jan. 2, 6 & 7
5-9 p.m. (serving alcohol until 8:30 p.m.)
Subject to weather
Enjoy adult beverages, snacks and more, available for purchase

Espresso-A-Go-Go: (location: Children’s Garden Carriage House)
Nightly
Hot drinks, s’mores kits, and snacks available for purchase; near the Kelleher Warming Fire.
Prices range from drip coffee and teas ($3) to specialty coffees & teas ($5-$6); s’mores & pastries ($5); bottled water ($2).

For More Dining Experiences including Holiday Rentals, please visit Holiday Events and Private Parties.

Shopping

The Garden Shop in the Visitors Center is known for its outstanding, high-quality merchandise. A great place for all your gift-giving needs!

Know Before You Go

These GardenFest FAQs provide helpful info and tips for planning your visit, parking and more. Carpool if you can!

Thank You to Our Title Sponsor

Thank You to Our Other Sponsors