I remember my very first trip to Garden's Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, Maine.

We took a trip with another couple because we had heard how spectacular of a display it was. And everything we heard was 100% spot on.

However, before we dive into the magic of the 2024 season and dates that you can attend, let's first talk about some of the fun you can have at the Garden in the "warmer" months here in Maine.

According to their website, during the summer months, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay offer a wide range of activities, events, and attractions that showcase the natural beauty of the gardens in full bloom.

Cooper Fox
Cooper Fox
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The garden offers several miles of walking trails through the woods, along the shore, and around beautiful landscapes. You can explore trails like the Hillside Trail or Shoreland Trail, which offer views of the coastline and native plants.

The gardens are transformed into a wicked-cool winter wonderland with creative and beautifully designed light displays, making it one of the largest holiday light shows in New England.

I would even argue it rivals that big one at Gillette Stadium. The lights are arranged around trees, bushes, and some of their buildings, all of which create a festive and enchanting atmosphere.

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Unsplash
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Guests walk through the gardens along paths that are lit with stunning light displays. There are several photo opportunities, including tunnels of lights, glowing sculptures, and festive scenes.

Gardens Aglow offers fun activities for visitors of all ages. In addition to the light displays, families can enjoy holiday treats, holiday music, and possibly even visits with Santa!

To manage crowd sizes and ensure a good experience, tickets are usually sold with specific entry times. It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as Gardens Aglow is a popular event and often sells out quickly. In addition to managing crowds, we have found that the timed-entry tickets also help with the dreaded parking headache, too.

megan-nixon, unsplash
megan-nixon, unsplash
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It's a beloved tradition in Maine and a must-see for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season. If you're planning to visit, it’s a good idea to dress warmly, as it’s an outdoor event and Maine winters can get chilly!

If you want to attend this year's event, you can do so November 16th through December 31st. The attraction is typically open Thursdays through Sundays with the exception of select dates.

Tickets range from $12 for kids to $21 for adults. Though there is a special 'family rate' which begins at $54 bucks. Click here to secure your tickets for the 2024 Gardens Aglow!

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