Southern Tradition Lights Up the Night

A Southern Tradition Lights Up the Night

By Jo Clark

In the south, we rarely have a white Christmas. But we have water—and lights—lots of lights! Water plus lights equal magic! A century-old quarry turned botanical garden lights up the night for the holidays. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, and its annual Christmas extravaganza, are the vision of one man. Dr. Raymond Webber! In the four years since the lights took over, it has grown to a display that can easily guide Santa straight to Williston, Florida! The extension cords alone have topped $10,000!

Come early and enjoy the gardens and stay for the lights. I know you’re thinking lots of gardens have lighted paths and displays. Trust me, they’re nothing like this! The lakes reflect every twinkling light, multiplying their magic. And as Dr. Webber says, “You can never have too many lights!”

If you aren’t in the Christmas Spirit, you can find it at Cedar Lakes! Have a cup of hot cocoa while you walk the garden paths. And if you discover an elf strolling through the gardens, you just may have spotted Dr. Webber! Put Cedar Lakes on your to-do list, and tell Lori, Teresa, and Ray that I sent you.

Photos, from top: Jo Enjoying the Gardens © Jo Clark; Weeping Willow beside a small pond © Jo Clark; Pavillion under the 500 year old Live Oaks © Jo Clark; Pavillion lights, complete with an alligator © Jo Clark; A Flamingo—it is Florida after all © Jo Clark