Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights Images by Don Williamson

Has your family ever visited Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights, or has it been a few years?  It is a wonderful way to spend an evening together and do a little family bonding.  Did you know there are over 500,000 lights and 40+ miles of light strands in the show.  Now that is worth seeing!

This year’s theme is Naturally Ever After: Stories in Lights.  It incorporates themes from fairy tales and folklore.  Children can really connect with this theme.  Outdoor displays include Jack and the Beanstalk (yes, there is a giant in the garden), Humpty Dumpty, the Tortoise and the Hare, The Giving Tree, and so many more!  Indoor displays include the tiny world of Thumbelina in the Conservatory.  Your kids will love both!

Now we know it is cold outside, but you just don’t want to miss this holiday tradition!  Bundle up, grab some hand warmers, enjoy the fire pit, bring some money for s’mores and hot chocolate, and spend an hour or so enjoying the lights in  the garden.  The last day to see the lights is January 8th.

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights offers fun for families with special weekday events throughout Gardenfest.

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights Images by Don Williamson

Sometimes the garden can get crowded.  Avoid the crowds on the weekends and visit the garden during the week.  These family friendly activities will add to the experience, and some offer an escape indoors, from the chilly weather.

Every Monday:
Storytime in the Library Reading Room 5:30, 6:30, 7:30pm.

Every Tuesday:
Caroling  6:30 – 8pm.

Every Wednesday:
Families make crafts based on this year’s GardenFest theme with the help of staff & volunteers. 5 – 8 p.m. in the Kelly Education Center. Supporting Sponsor: M&T Bank

Every Thursday:
Acoustic musicians perform festive entertainment. 6-7 p.m. & 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the Lora Robins Library.

Special Events Include:

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights Images by Don Williamson

Remaining Member Nights  (free admission for members and volunteers):  Jan. 8, 2018.

GardenFest for Fidos —  Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018.

New Year’s Eve Family Frolic – December 31, 2017

Tickets

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights is a “rain or shine” event; only closed for extreme weather. Tickets are not date specific and may be purchased at the Garden (9 a.m. – 10 p.m.) or you may purchase tickets online.  Please note tickets ordered online have a convenience fee.
$13 adults
$11 seniors (age 55+)
$8 children (ages 3 – 12)
Free for children under age 3
$7: Garden members
$5: Child on Garden Membership (ages 3 – 18)

Click here for tips on visiting for GardenFest.  And here for specific tips for visiting with kids.