Night Lights: Fantastical Forest
Visitors stroll along winding paths through roughly 15 acres of formal outdoor gardens illuminated with half a million whimsical lights. The experience also extends indoors to displays in the Visitors Center, classrooms, and two subtropical conservatories. Guests can roast marshmallows at fire pits with s'mores kits, enjoy hot cocoa and seasonal food from the cafe, and browse the Garden Shop.
What to Expect
Half a million lights illuminating 15 acres of formal gardens.
Event Details
Duration
Visits usually last one to three hours. Visitors may stay until the event closes at 10 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Worcester County Horticultural Society
Food & Drink
Indian food is offered during Diwali Lights on November 21, and Dinner by Dazzle on December 14 features winter-inspired dishes.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and light-display enthusiasts
Vibe
Whimsical and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Non-member standard night rates: adults $26; seniors (65+) $23; non-member children (4–12) and member children (4–18) $16. Peak night rates: adults $29; seniors (65+) $26; non-member children (4–12) and member children (4–18) $19. Children 3 and under are free; a ticket is required. Members save 25% off listed prices, and receive 50% off tickets for November 30, December 1, and December 2, while supplies last. – Get tickets
- Hours: Daily, 4-10 PM.
- Parking: Onsite parking is available at no charge. Handicap accessible parking is in the main lots; drop-off is available halfway up the entry path. The French Drive entry gate closes to arriving vehicles at 10 p.m.
- Accessibility: Indoor areas are fully accessible, outdoor paved and decking paths are accessible in clear weather, and manual wheelchairs are available to borrow first-come, first-served.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed; service dogs are allowed throughout the gardens and buildings.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets in advance, because Night Lights often sells out, door prices are higher and sold-out evenings aren't sold at the door.
- Reserve your s'mores kits when you buy admission so you can skip the concession line and head straight to the fire pits.
- Wear a warm coat, snow boots, a hat and gloves, since most of the event is outdoors and the paths can be icy.
- Bring a nonperishable food item to donate to the Boylston Food Pantry food drive, which runs on every night of Night Lights.
- If you're getting a rideshare home, book the pickup before closing, because the French Drive gate shuts to arriving vehicles then.
Special Events & Promotions
- Diwali Lights on Saturday, November 21, with Indian cultural programs, Indian food, local vendors, henna and timed performances
- Sensory Friendly Hours on December 3 and 8, a low-sensory, less crowded visit for people with autism or other sensory sensitivities
- Dinner by Dazzle on Monday, December 14, with winter-inspired dishes in the conservatory
- Crafts & Cocktails Winter Series every Wednesday during Night Lights, with art and craft workshops
- Garden members get 50% off tickets on November 30, December 1 and December 2, while supplies last
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which parts of the Garden are included?
You walk through about 15 acres of lit formal gardens, including the Entry Garden, The Ramble, Pliny's Allée, the Lawn Garden and the Winter Garden. There are also displays in the Visitors Center, Classroom A&B and two subtropical conservatories. The woodland areas are closed each evening.
What food and drink is there?
The Farmer and the Fork café serves hot cocoa, apple cider, cider donuts, winter cocktails and seasonal grilled cheeses. Seating is very limited, so a picnic dinner isn't recommended, and outside alcohol isn't allowed. You can add s'mores kits when you buy tickets and roast them at the fire pits.
How long should we allow?
Most visits take one to three hours. Once you've checked in, you can walk the lighted paths more than once and stay until closing.
How does the arrival time on my ticket work?
Arrival times are staggered every 30 minutes. Your time is when you enter through the Visitors Center. Arrive as close to it as you can, because entry isn't guaranteed if you're more than 30 minutes late.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes. All paths work for strollers, and small strollers with large wheels work best. Large strollers and wagons aren't recommended. Scooters and other wheeled devices aren't allowed unless they're used for mobility.
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