N.C. Arboretum lights up for the holidays
More than 200,000 LED lights will illuminate the gardens of the N.C. Arboretum starting Nov. 20 for the second annual Winter Lights showcase.
New this year are a 50-foot lighted tree and animated displays illuminating to the sounds of holiday tunes, as well as family-friendly activities throughout the gardens, to up the ante from 2014.
A garden-scale model train that demonstrates the coming of trains to Western North Carolina at the turn of the 20th century will also be in operation.
Produced in collaboration with former designer and manager of holiday decorations for Disney World,, Jerry Stripling, the showcase will run through Jan. 2.
Tours are held nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., with advance ticket purchase required. Prices range from $13 to $18, with children under 4 admitted free.
To gain free entry, consider joining the hundreds of volunteers needed to welcome visitors and guide them through the experience. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
800.514.3849. www.ncwinterlights.org.
