Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum

2024 Dates TBA

The North Carolina Arboretum's Winter Lights is an Asheville holiday tradition that features over a million energy-efficient LED lights on display throughout the grounds of the North Carolina Arboretum. This event is in a walk-through format and has been modified to allow more open-air space for guests to roam. Upon arrival, attendees will have multiple outdoor starting points to choose from when beginning their journey. Some things to enjoy during your visit: 

• The Lights- This year’s show features over a million lights and mixes enchanting new displays with old favorites like the 50ft tree and Quilt Garden. 
• Live performances- Live performances are scheduled nightly at the Education Center, near Bent Creek Bistro. 
• Rocky Cove Railroad- The beloved G-scale model train offers nightly service to the North Pole. All aboard!
• Storytime at Woodland Cove- Visit the Education Center for a whimsical window display that follows a young bear’s journey to discover new habitats. This is an educational exhibit that will delight the whole family.
• Gift Shops- Still have a bit of shopping to do for the holidays? The Arborteum's Connections Gallery Gift Shop in the Baker Visitor Center and Winter Lights Shop in the Education Center are open 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily, and from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. during Winter Lights.
• S’mores and Fire Pits- If the winter nights turn a bit chilly, cozy up to the fire pits and heaters throughout the gardens. S’mores kits are available for purchase at the Bent Creek Bistro, where there’s an especially large fire pit for all your marshmallow-roasting needs!
• Wishing Trees- A favorite Winter Lights tradition, the Wishing Trees return this year in a new location! Look for them near Rocky Cove Railroad, and make sure to leave a wish for the coming year.
• Food and Drink- Looking for something to warm you up while you stroll? Cocoa, beer, wine, and light bites are available at both the Cocoa Shack and Bent Creek Bistro. 

Tickets will be sold per vehicle with tiered pricing based on peak and off-peak dates. Advance tickets range from $30-$60 for a standard-sized vehicle. An additional $10 will be added for tickets purchased at the gate on the night of the event.