HUNTSVILLE – It is scientific fact that the magical allurement people get from looking at Christmas lights brings about feelings of happiness and childhood memories for adults, and a twinkling fascination for children themselves.
With that, the Huntsville Botanical Gardens’ Galaxy of Lights traditionally marks the arrival of the Christmas holidays in Huntsville. In its 27th year, the award-winning driving and walking event starts Nov. 11 and runs through Jan. 1.
This year’s Galaxy experience includes several all-new features and innovative lighting designs combined with traditional light displays and special effects.
Due to popular demand, the Garden will expand its popular Galaxy of Walking Nights with 31 walking dates this year, compared to 17 last year.
“For several years now, we have seen a growing demand for walking experiences at Galaxy of Lights,” said Rebecca Turk, director of Learning and Public Engagement at the Botanical Garden. “In response to that feedback, we are excited to be offering even more Walking Nights, and we are thrilled at the positive response we have received so far.”
While there is something special about walking among the lights, the driving and walking events feature new immersive displays and innovative designs with surprises shining for everyone.
“If you haven’t been to Galaxy of Lights in a few years, particularly to the walking nights, you will be amazed at how it has evolved,” said Sue Wagner, chief executive officer of the Garden. “Every year, we listen to feedback and make improvements to the experience so that we can continue to dazzle our guests again and again.
“Galaxy of Lights is a Huntsville holiday tradition, and our team of staff and volunteers work behind the scenes all year to ensure we create a must-attend, one-of-a-kind event.”
For the past two years, Galaxy of Lights has been recognized in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest for Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights.
“The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice awards are voted on by the public, so it is a genuine show of support from our community to be recognized two years in a row,” said Wagner. “We are honored to be such a beloved part of the holiday season in Huntsville.”
Galaxy of Lights Walking Nights will take place Nov. 11-27 and Dec. 17 through Jan. 1, from 5:15-8:30 p.m.
The event will be closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Ticket prices range from $13 to $25 for adults and $7 to $15 for children.
People who qualify through the Museums for All program are eligible for up to four tickets at a discounted price of $3 each.
The Garden strongly recommends pre-purchasing Walking Nights tickets here in advance, due to limited capacity.
Guests can bring their dogs to Dog Walking Nights, Mondays and Tuesdays (Nov. 14-15 and 21-22; Dec. 19-20 and 26-27).
The Galaxy of Lights 5K and 3K Fun Run are scheduled for Nov. 28-29.
Galaxy of Lights Driving Nights are Dec. 1-16, from 5:30-9 p.m.
Ticket prices range from $20 to $35 per vehicle, with a limit of 10 passengers. A $5 discount is available at the gate on Mondays for active and retired military personnel with valid ID.
Tickets for Driving Nights can be pre-purchased by clicking here. They may also be purchased upon arrival.
Presented by the Damson Automotive Group, all proceeds support the Botanical Garden.
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