Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter 2024-2025 in Virginia

A sparkling winter garden in Richmond offers plenty of fun activities

Dates: November 18, 2024–January 5, 2025

The annual holiday display at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is one of the most popular Christmas attractions in Richmond. Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights features more than one million twinkling lights.

Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights Program

Other highlights in the garden include handcrafted botanical decorations, model trains, a fire pit to roast s’mores and hot chocolate as well as nightly family entertainment, live music, and family fun craft activities. The magical garden showcases all things that fly—fireflies, flying pigs, spaceships, dragons, and unicorns. Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights is among the most popular family-friendly events in Richmond.

Special events in the garden include Merry Mondays, when children can enjoy a Christmas storytime fireside with the Garden Keeper in the Library Reading Room. On that day, Santa will make an appearance in the Conservatory from 6 to 8 p.m.

Caroling Tuesdays attracts holiday song enthusiasts. Listen to your favorite Christmas carols at various garden locations. Crafty Wednesdays feature a craft just for kids. On Musical Thursdays, you’ll find live acoustic music and festive entertainment from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Lora Robins Library. Dogs can enjoy the holiday lights at GardenFest for Fidos. Leashed pets are allowed on certain nights.

2024's Edition

This year’s Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection event is a dazzling journey through nature and community. Guests will marvel at millions of lights illuminating ecosystems like wetlands, lush forests, vibrant savannahs, and fantastical realms. Highlights include the interactive Waterway splash pad in the Children's Garden and the Cochrane Rose Garden's reimagined displays. Visitors can also hunt for Pokémon light forms like Ponyta and Ivysaur hidden in each habitat.

Indoor exhibits, including Herbs in the Home in the Library Reading Room, explore how nature enriches our kitchens and crafts. The Robins Visitors Center showcases dried botanical displays and a timeline celebrating the Garden's 40-year journey.