3 minute read
See the Arboretum in a Whole New Light
Elise Bremer — Editor
Celebrate winter with the return of Winter Lights — the Arboretum’s festive, one-mile walking tour featuring light displays with a botanical theme. This unique after-hours experience invites visitors to come out and enjoy the Arboretum in the winter time, said Wendy Composto, Signature Seasonal Events Manager and the creative force behind Winter Lights.
This year’s tour will feature brand-new installations and more lights than ever before along with familiar pieces that honor the Arboretum’s horticultural heritage, including a larger-than-life apple bedecked in twinkling lights. For Composto, it’s all about illuminating the Arboretum’s connection to the University of Minnesota and celebrating the many cold-hardy plant varieties developed at the Horticultural Research Center (HRC). “Our goal is to create as many natural, floral tie-ins as possible,” said Composto, listing off “Lite-Brite” versions of chrysanthemums, forsythia and azaleas, all on display as an homage to the HRC.
The self-guided walking tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Arboretum after hours and to celebrate the beauty of the winter season in Minnesota. The newly expanded route includes a visit up to Scarecrow Hill — transformed for the season into a welcoming Winter Village — as well as a brand new color-changing archway and a light-up array of cheerful sunflowers.
Visitors can warm up inside the Oswald Visitor Center with seasonal music on select nights from the Winter Music Series, or gather around fire pits at a S’Mores Village near the Sensory Garden, with s’mores kits available to purchase for convivial marshmallow roasting.
For those looking for a curated experience, special theme nights provide exclusive access to Winter Lights. Events include nights for families and photographers, as well as date nights for adults and a New Year’s Eve celebration for all ages with countdown celebrations on the hour throughout the evening.
Combining time-honored traditions with new and exciting light displays, the 7th-annual Winter Lights creates a shimmering spectacle in the darkest months of winter. Said Composto, “It’s special here after hours; it’s just a different experience.” Don’t miss the magic of Winter Lights — on display throughout November and December.
Tickets are required for all Winter Lights viewing nights as well as special theme nights for all visitors, including members of all levels. For more information and to reserve tickets, head to arb.umn.edu/winterlights.
