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Frequently named one of the best botanical garden holiday light showsin the country, A Longwood Christmas features more than 550,000 glimmering lights, live musical performances, an outdoor railway display and other big surprises.
This year’s celebration transforms the beloved gardens and conservatories into a gilded, glittering wonderland inspired by the natural beauty of gemstones. Expect towering trees decked out in gold, ruby red, emerald green and sapphire blue. Elsewhere, keep an eye out for actual minerals on loan from the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science.
Twinkling trees and brilliant light displays span hundreds of acres of outdoor gardens, indoor conservatories, misty lakes and intimate passages across the attraction.
Plus, guests can enjoy Christmas music and festive fountain shows, wander through the brilliantly illuminated displays and warm up with seasonal cuisine at two dining venues.
Longwood Reimagined opened in November 2024 with spectacular new spaces, so if you haven’t been to A Longwood Christmas in a few years, you’ll be delighted with the new digs.
The grand conservatories come alive this holiday season with gemstone-inspired decor. The Music Room transforms into a Gilded Gala, complete with a 12-foot-tall Fraser fir rising out of a huge jewelry box, with the branches dripping in elegant jewels. Channeling the vibe of a grand holiday feast, the exhibit also features a banquet table decked out in gilded dishes and crystal glasses.
Main Conservatory — Photo by B. Mathias for Longwood Gardens
Follow the gold and glitter to Longwood’s ballroom, where you’ll find eight trees with decor crafted by local art centers and youth programs.
Other must-sees include:
West Conservatory — Photo by H. Davis for Longwood Gardens
Outside, you can witness captivating fountain shows with 750 water jets dancing to holiday music at the Open Air Theatre, with five-minute shows running throughout the day and evening hours.
Visitors can also walk through the 200-foot-long illuminated Meadow Tunnel, a favorite spot to snap some shots for the gram.
— Photo by H. Davis for Longwood Gardens
More highlights include:
— Photo courtesy Longwood Gardens
You bet! A Longwood Christmas comes complete with seasonal food and drink.
The Fountain Room features a curated Taste of Christmas menu on select days. Reservations are required in addition to garden admission.
Over at 1906, hungry holiday-goers can feast on a three- or four-course prix fixe menu that includes lobster, chicken and beef carpaccio options.
The Café and Beer Garden also have some seasonal bites along with hot cocoa and other tasty treats.
1906 — Photo by L. Carrozzino for Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is located in Kennett Square — about an hour from Center City Philadelphia.
The attraction remains wildly popular, especially during the holiday season, so timed tickets are required for A Longwood Christmas. Timeslots may sell out (so buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure entry).
Garden Railway — Photo by B. Mathias for Longwood Gardens
Reminder: This holiday celebration takes place both indoors and outdoors, so be sure to bundle up.
For more information about A Longwood Christmas, click the button below.
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