If your family is looking for a holiday outing that’s equal parts magical, festive, and unforgettable, mark your calendar—Holidays at the Garden returns to Daniel Stowe Conservancy on November 28, filling the Belmont gardens with twinkling lights and cheerful seasonal fun through December 27, 2025.
Just 20 miles from Uptown Charlotte, the Gardens at Stowe glow with millions of lights, creative botanical displays, and cozy spaces perfect for sipping hot cocoa and making memories together.
✨ What Families Can Expect This Year
This year’s walk-through experience transforms the entire garden into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re exploring with toddlers in tow, snapping photos with teens, or bringing grandparents along for the adventure, there’s something for everyone.
🌟 Dazzling Light Displays
From the tropical warmth of the Williamson Conservatory to the whimsical Prairie Castle Playground, the Gardens shine with millions of sparkling lights spanning the entire property.
🚂 Festive Trackless Train Rides
On three December Saturdays (Dec. 6, 13, and 20), families can hop aboard a cheerful trackless train from 6–8 p.m. It’s a kid favorite and a fun way to see the lights.
Sponsored by RayNathan’s.
🎅 Meet Santa
Bring the camera! Santa will be greeting families on Fridays and Saturdays before Christmas (Dec. 5–6, 12–13, 19–20) from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
🎶 Live Music Nights
On select evenings, the Great Hall fills with festive performances to add an extra dose of holiday cheer.
🍸 Adults-Only Speakeasy
Parents can sneak away to a cozy speakeasy space for 21+ holiday cocktails each night (cover charge applies) while the kids enjoy cocoa and the lights.
🎁 Special One-Day Events
Looking for something extra festive? Add one of these themed events to your visit:
- Merry Market – Dec. 6: Discover handcrafted gifts and support local vendors.
- Santa Paws – Dec. 13: A dog-friendly celebration in The Village at Stowe.
Sponsored by New Hope Veterinary Hospital. - Morning with Santa – Dec. 20: Enjoy breakfast, hot chocolate, crafts, and up-close Santa fun inside the Great Hall.
Sponsored by Helt Design.
🎟 Ticket Options & Details
Hours: Nightly from 5–10 p.m. (last entry at 9 p.m.)
Ticket Types
General Tickets: Choose a specific date.
Flex Tickets: Come any night you choose between Nov. 28–Dec. 27—perfect for families juggling busy holiday schedules.
Sample Pricing
- Value Weeknights (Mon–Thurs):
Adult $24 | Senior $22 | Child $18 - General Tickets:
Adult $28 | Senior $25 | Child $20 - Flex Tickets:
Adult $33 | Senior $30 | Child $25
Good to Know
- Stroller, wagon, and wheelchair-friendly paths ✔
- Pets are not permitted except during Santa Paws
- Groups of 15+ need to reserve in advance
- Held rain or shine (severe weather updates announced by 3 p.m.)
📸 Why Families Love Holidays at the Garden
Holidays at the Garden is more than a light show—it’s a full seasonal experience that brings families together outdoors. Whether you're capturing a photo by the glowing Orchid Tree outside the Great Hall or exploring paths lined with shimmering displays, every corner offers a little magic.
Better yet, every ticket supports the Daniel Stowe Conservancy, helping preserve and enhance outdoor spaces for our community.
🌼 About Daniel Stowe Conservancy
Daniel Stowe Conservancy tends and protects beautiful garden spaces in Belmont, offering visitors a place to explore, learn, and connect with nature. The holiday event is one of its most beloved traditions, drawing families from across the Carolinas each year.
🎟 Get Your Tickets
Ready to make some holiday memories? Tickets are on sale now!
Choose your night—or grab a Flex Ticket for maximum flexibility—at danielstoweconservancy.org.
Bundle up, bring the family, and let the Gardens at Stowe light up your holiday season. ✨
