The Norfolk Botanical Garden has two well-lit events sure to please this holiday season. The Dominion Energy Million Bulb Walk is a one-mile holiday display available nightly through Dec. 15th. Alternatively, from December 16-31st, you can drive through the Dominion Energy Garden of Lights between 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. each evening.
Either event is a great stop on your travels through Norfolk, Va. this holiday season. You can buy tickets for both events ahead of time through the Garden’s holiday website nbgholidays.org.
The Walk, which is in its eighth year, is considered one of the top 20 light shows in the country according to a USA Today contest, which is running now. Attendance doubled between 2016 and 2017.
“We’re currently in the No. 2 spot,” says Kelly Welsh, Norfolk Botanical Garden marketing and communications director. “The public is currently voting. We would love it if you could vote for us.”
Crews start working on the mostly LED light displays (which save energy and cost) in September and wrap 105 trees, Welsh says. The walk features several scenes that bring the four seasons to life.
Military Tribute & 44-Foot Mega Tree
The newly animated fireworks display is a tribute to the military personnel and their families. The most popular spot for photos is the 44-foot mega tree that guests can walk through.
“The synchronized dancing trees move to your favorite holiday music and this show is one of the most popular parts of the walk,” Welsh says. “During the drive-through nights, you can drive through the mega tree and hear synchronized carols on your radio.”
Bringing an RV?
If you’ll be bringing your RV, be sure to check with the Botanical Garden before you arrive. The parking lot can be very crowded on peak nights, and the Garden can reserve the right to only admit pre-sold ticket holders.
The parking lot can accommodate RVs, but the crowding is a factor, Welsh says. “Because of the size of the vehicle, your RV may need to take up 2-4 parking spots. That’s why I highly recommend coming during the week.”
An overflow parking lot is available, but it’s in a grassy area, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.
“If you want to avoid big crowds, it’s best to visit during the week,” Welsh says. “It will get busier as we get closer to the holidays and the closing of the Million Bulb Walk.”
Tickets & Hours
The Million Bulb Walk is a rain or shine event, so preparation for weather conditions is recommended.
“Because we are in Coastal Virginia, weather can be a little unpredictable,” Welsh says. “Yesterday, it was 70 degrees and today it’s 50 degrees. If it’s a little drizzly or light rain, it is still worth coming out. A little rain makes the lights sparkle a little more.”
The walk is open from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. every evening and tickets can be purchased ahead of time. Ticket prices vary from $13 (for members) to $17 (for non-member adults). Military personnel save $2 off the price of admission. Children ages 3-17 are $10 per child. Children 2 and under are free. The walk is also stroller and wheelchair friendly.
Parking is included in the price of admission and is in the Botanical Garden’s main lot. Parking attendants will direct attendees on where to park. Some days and times are busier than others, so the Botanical Garden may only allow pre-sale ticket holders admittance if the parking lot is full. It’s a good idea to get your tickets ahead of time.
If the event is cancelled due to weather, pre-sold tickets can be rescheduled through the Garden’s Guest Services phone line (757-441-5830 x324). Cancellations are announced on the Botanical Garden’s website and Facebook page.
Garden of Lights visitors can purchase snacks and beverages at the Marigold & Honey cafe. Outside food and beverages are not allowed. The Garden Gift Shop inside the Baker Visitor Center is also open each evening until 9 p.m. A tram takes you back to the parking lot at the end of the tour.
The Garden of Lights driving tour, which began Dec. 16th, has a “per car” fee for the drive-through show. It’s $30 on weekends and $25 on weeknights. A tram tour is available for groups of 20 or more.
Guests are welcome to take photos with monopods and self-sticks and encouraged to share their photos with the hashtag #NBGLights2018.
Pets and smoking are not allowed in the Garden during the Million Bulb Walk. Service animals are welcome.
Restrooms are available in the Visitor Center and the Rose Garden Hall and at two buildings along the light route until 10 p.m. each evening during the walk.
More About the Norfolk Botanical Garden
The Norfolk Botanical Garden is currently celebrating its 80th year. With more than 60 themed gardens on 175 acres, the Garden has various plant collections and a kids’ feature called WOW – World of Wonders: A Children’s Adventure Garden. The Garden features tram, boat, or walking tours.
The Garden is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Green attraction. Managed by the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Inc. and supported by the City of Norfolk, the Garden is dedicated to enriching life by promoting the enjoyment of plants and the environment through beautiful gardens and educational programs.