Night and day Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus has two distinct holiday personalities. BY VICTORIA ELLWOOD; PHOTOS BY REBECCA SEUM
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y day inside Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, thousands of red, pink, and white poinsettias, a giant poinsettia tree, and gorgeous winter greenery create a festive holiday scene.
Then, as dusk falls, more than 450,000 twinkly lights, musical light shows, a holiday train display, and brightly lit “animals” like elephants and flamingos make a magical winter wonderland outside on the conservatory grounds. The day-night double feature has grown into a much-adored extravaganza, and Karin Noecker loves every minute of it. “I’ve worked here at the conservatory for 18 years, and this is my most favorite time of year,” says Noecker, director of horticulture and exhibitions. “Everything is just so beautiful.”
DECEMBER 2021 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27
