Dominion Energy Garden of Lights
Visitors follow illuminated pathways beneath tree canopies decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. Displays throughout the garden include the Dancing Pixel Forest, Neon Fusion of Lights, dazzling lasers, the sparkling Conifer Garden, the glowing NATO Tower, and a walk-through Mega Tree. Guests can stop for festive drinks and sweet treats at food vendor pop-ups along the way.
What to Expect
Stroll through an enchanted botanical garden illuminated by 1.5 million lights.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Organizer
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Food & Drink
The Reeds Bistro satellite location offers holiday-inspired mocktails and treats, while vendors serve hot chocolate, freshly brewed coffee, churros, and kettle corn.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday light enthusiasts
Vibe
Enchanted and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Value Nights: NBG Member Adult (13+) $18; NBG Member Child (3-12) $12; Adult (13+) $24; Child (3-12) $15. Popular Nights: NBG Member Adult (13+) $24; NBG Member Child (3-12) $15; Adult (13+) $30; Child (3-12) $18. Norfolk City admission tax is not included. Guests age 3+ must have a ticket. Group rates are offered for groups of 100 or more. – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking.
- Accessibility: A Merry Mobility Shuttle runs nightly for guests with limited mobility and their party to experience the lights without walking.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome during Barks & Bulbs on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets early, because many nights are expected to sell out. Members get first access before tickets go on sale to everyone else.
- Anytime Gift Tickets are valid on any evening of the season, including sold-out nights, so they make a flexible gift.
- Bring your phone with your unique barcode, or a printed copy, so you can scan in at your chosen arrival time. Tickets are non-refundable.
- Reserve the Merry Mobility Shuttle ahead of time if anyone in your group has limited mobility, because shuttle space is limited.
- Wear your favorite holiday gear, or start at the Gift Shop for light-up hats and festive gear before heading into the lights.
Special Events & Promotions
- Barks & Bulbs: dogs welcome on Wednesday and Sunday evenings, with an extra night added this year.
- Meet the Elves: two elves roam the Garden and pose for photos on Tuesday evenings.
- Themed Value Nights include Family Pajama, Holiday Sweater, Pride and Volunteer Appreciation nights on select dates.
- Members-only nights open the season, and members get ticket discounts all season.
- Military discount on Value Nights, plus group rates for groups of 100 or more.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, on Barks & Bulbs nights. Dogs are welcome on Wednesday and Sunday evenings, and another night has been added this year.
What is there to eat and drink?
The Reeds Bistro has a holiday pop-up right after ticket scanning, with holiday mocktails and treats. Along the route you'll find coffee, hot chocolate, churros and sweet treats. Bear House Coffee Roasters, Spicy Latina, Classic Kettle Corn of Chesapeake and Ben & Jerry's are all back.
Is there an option for guests who can't walk the whole route?
Yes. The Merry Mobility Shuttle runs nightly so guests with limited mobility and their group can see the lights without walking the route. There are more spots this year, but space is limited, so reserve ahead.
How does entry work?
Choose your arrival date and time when you buy. Then scan your barcode at arrival from your phone or from a paper copy printed at home. Everyone age 3 and up needs a ticket.
Are there characters to meet?
Two elves roam the Garden on Tuesday evenings. They greet guests and pose for photos.
More Christmas Events Near Norfolk
More Christmas Events near Norfolk
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.