Illustration of a couple and children walking through a tunnel of twinkling white lights in the snow (Holidays at the Garden)
Christmas Lights

Holidays at the Garden

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Holidays at the Garden, where millions of lights illuminate the landscape. This enchanting event features dancing fountains, festive music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Indulge in delicious holiday bites and warm beverages, and discover unique gifts at the Big Leaf Café. Capture unforgettable memories with photos at the dazzling Orchid Tree, the perfect centerpiece for your holiday adventure.

All ages $$

Plan Your Visit

Last year

Featured Performers

  • Adam Hawley

Food & Drink

Irresistible holiday bites, warm drinks, and specialty cocktails available. Food trucks and beverage vendors are available on-site. The Big Leaf Café offers gifts and treats. An adults-only speakeasy is available.

Parking

Parking at Stowe is free.

Accessibility

Paths are a mix of paved roads, pressed gravel, and brick hardscape, wide enough for strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs. Some areas can be dark, so a flashlight is recommended for navigating with wheels. The Prairie Castle Playground is wheelchair accessible for the first two stories.

Location

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden · 6500 S New Hope Road, Belmont, NC 28012 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, and anyone looking for a festive holiday experience.

Vibe

Magical, festive, enchanting, romantic, family-friendly.

Energy Level

Moderate (walking required)

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (5/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (event held rain or shine, with cancellations only for severe weather)

Tips & Advice

  • Consider purchasing Flex Tickets if your plans might change, as general tickets are non-refundable and offer no rescheduling options.
  • Arrive before 9 p.m. to ensure you have ample time to enjoy the full light display, as this is the last admission time.
  • Bring a flashlight, especially if using a stroller or wheelchair, as some paths can be dark during the event.
  • Check the event schedule for specific dates for Santa visits, trackless train rides, and live music to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Members receive a 15% discount on tickets; ensure you log in with your membership-associated email to apply the discount.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Member Preview Night (Nov 21)
  • Jazz at the Garden: Holiday Edition (Nov 22)
  • Bright Lights Race (Nov 26)
  • Cars + Coffee: Christmas Cruise-In (Dec 6)
  • Merry Market (Dec 6)
  • Coffee + Crafts: Gingerbread House (Dec 7)
  • Wreath Making Workshops (Dec 10-12)
  • Santa Paws dog event (Dec 13)
  • Morning with Santa at Stowe (Dec 20)
  • Coffee + Crafts: Winter Miniatures (Dec 21)

Links & Contact

Run by Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Holidays at the Garden?

Holidays at the Garden is an annual holiday lights exhibit at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont, NC, featuring millions of twinkling lights that bring the magic of the holidays to life.

Do I walk or drive through the light display?

Holidays at the Garden is a walking tour of the light display throughout The Gardens at Stowe. Parking is free.

What is the difference between general tickets and flex tickets?

General Tickets require attendance on a specific night with no refund options. Flex Tickets allow for flexible rescheduling to any open date of Holidays at the Garden from November 28 – December 27, providing ticket insurance for unexpected changes.

Are the paths accessible for wheelchairs/strollers/wagons?

Yes, the paths are a mix of paved roads, pressed gravel, and brick hardscape, wide enough for strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs. A flashlight is recommended for navigating in darker areas.

Can I bring my dog to Holidays at the Garden?

Dogs are not permitted in The Gardens at Stowe, but trained service animals are welcome. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails and paths outside The Gardens. Special dog-friendly events like Santa Paws are also held.

Browse Christmas in Gastonia

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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