Nights of a Thousand Candles
Visitors stroll garden pathways illuminated by thousands of hand-lit candles and millions of twinkling holiday lights while listening to live musical performances. The evening features an annual holiday tree lighting in the Arboretum along with open access to the Rosen Galleries and Brown Sculpture Court. Dining choices include rotating food trucks, Lowcountry favorites at the Leonard Pavilion, and seated dinner service.
What to Expect
More than 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights.
Event Details
Duration
The event runs 4:00–9:00 p.m.; visitors may arrive any time during those hours. The main gate closes at 8:30 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Brookgreen Gardens
Food & Drink
Rotating food trucks offer nightly selections near the Entertainment Stage, and Harvest Restaurant serves dinner by reservation; the optional Sparkle & Fun package includes a glass of wine or cider.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-light fans
Vibe
Magical and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Members: adults $35, children ages 4–12 $15. Non-members: adults $40, children ages 4–12 $20. – Get tickets
- Hours: Event: 4–9 p.m.; entertainment sets: 4 pm, 5 pm, 6:15 pm, 7:15 pm, and 8:15 pm; tree lighting: 6–6:15 pm.
- Parking: Free parking, with accessible spaces in the main lot and rideshare pickup and drop-off in the main parking area.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with accessible parking in the main lot; visitors must bring their own mobility devices as rentals are not provided.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed. Trained service animals assisting disabled persons are welcome.
Tips & Advice
- Dress warmly and carpool if you can, because traffic into the gardens is sometimes heavy on event nights.
- Book Austin's Harvest ahead if you want a sit-down dinner, and buy your event tickets as well, because you need both to dine there.
- Buy tickets only through Brookgreen's website or Leap Events, because tickets bought anywhere else can't be guaranteed.
- Leave snacks and drinks at home, since outside food isn't allowed, and plan to eat from the food trucks, Campbell Catering or The Old Kitchen.
- If you're taking a rideshare home, make sure your driver is inside the gates before the gardens close for the night.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sparkle & Fun Package add-on: a glass of wine or cider plus holographic light glasses, picked up on the north terrace of the Purdy Center.
- Brookgreen members get a lower ticket price.
- Groups of 20 or more adults can get special pricing through group sales.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will we see and do?
You walk paths lit by more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of lights, with holiday music on the Entertainment Stage. The Holiday Tree Lighting happens every evening in the Arboretum. The Rosen Galleries, Brown Sculpture Court and Keepsakes Museum Store stay open.
What are the food options?
Rotating food trucks park near the Entertainment Stage. Campbell Catering serves Lowcountry favorites in the Leonard Pavilion with no reservation needed. There are also beverage stations and The Old Kitchen. For a sit-down dinner at Austin's Harvest, reservations are recommended, and you need event tickets too.
Can I bring my dog?
No, pets aren't allowed. Trained service animals that assist people with disabilities are welcome.
Are any parts of the gardens closed during the event?
Yes. The Lowcountry Trail, Lowcountry Zoo, Floyd Family Farm, Bleifeld Gallery and Offner Center are closed during Nights of a Thousand Candles.
What is the Sparkle & Fun Package?
It's an add-on with a glass of wine or cider and a pair of holographic glasses that turn every light into a burst of color. Pick it up on the north terrace of the Purdy Center.
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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.