Holiday Lights at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Get ready to enter a world of festive lights and seasonal cheer at Daniel Stowe Conservancy's "Holidays at the Garden" — the heart of Gaston County's winter celebration! From November 28 to December 27, 2025, the Garden transforms into a holiday wonderland where twinkling lights, sparkling fountains, and immersive holiday displays bring the season's magic to life. Open select evenings from 5 to 10 pm, this cherished annual tradition offers a perfect way to make memories and celebrate the season with family and friends.

Holidays at the Garden

A Winter Wonderland of Lights and Holiday Cheer

As you enter the Garden, follow beautifully lit pathways that guide you through themed displays bursting with holiday charm. Whether it's your first visit or an annual tradition, "Holidays at the Garden" delights visitors of all ages with accessible paths — ideal for strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs — ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities. Marvel at the breathtaking Orchid Tree outside the Great Hall, cozy up around crackling fire pits, and be sure to visit The Garden Store for unique, local holiday gifts!

Festive Activities to Warm Your Heart

Warm Up by the Fire

Bring family and friends to gather around a glowing outdoor fire to warm up as you treat yourself to irresistible holiday bites, sip on a warm drink that melts away the winter chill and browse Big Leaf Café for one-of-a-kind gifts that make the season shine.

Experiences for 2025

This year, Holidays at the Garden introduces exciting new activities for all ages:

• Glowing lights across our spectacular Prairie Castle Playground that make for magical evenings your kids will never forget!

• Our highly anticipated Four Seasons Light Show

• Rides on our holiday trackless train on Saturday evenings in December until Christmas from 6-8 p.m. (December 6, 13, 20)

• Visits with Santa on Friday and Saturday evenings in December until Christmas from 5:30-7:30 p.m. (December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20)

• Live music on select evenings

• An adults-only speakeasy (shhh!) with exclusive holiday cocktails ($5 cover charge)

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Extend the Joy in "Christmas County" – Gaston County's Ultimate Holiday Extravaganza!

Don't let the magic end at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden — continue your holiday adventure with other incredible seasonal events in Gaston County, lovingly dubbed Christmas County. With enchanting parades, holiday festivals, snowless tubing, ice skating, and much more, Gaston County is your ideal weekend getaway this holiday season.

Create lasting memories and experience the season's joy at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and beyond, embracing all that Christmas County offers. Start planning your holiday getaway today to make the most of these festive experiences in Gaston County! LEARN MORE