Holidays at the Garden at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

About this adventure

Holidays at the Garden is Gaston County's premier botanical celebration, illuminating 30 rolling acres along Lake Wylie with hundreds of thousands of dazzling holiday lights. Guests follow paved garden trails lined with shimmering cherry blossom trees, luminous topiary deer, whimsical glowing fungi, and the popular weeping willow light tunnel. Inside the heated 8,000-square-foot orchid conservatory, visitors encounter the breathtaking 16-foot living orchid holiday tree, surrounded by tropical blooms and waterfall cascades. Outdoor family activities include marshmallow roasting over crackling fire pits, festive miniature model train layouts, horse-drawn carriage rides on select evenings, and cozy hot chocolate and apple cider stands. The garden's primary illuminated walking loop consists of flat, smooth concrete and brick walkways, making it exceptionally easy for parents pushing strollers or wagons. Clean, temperature-controlled family restrooms with changing stations are located in the main Visitor Pavilion. Benches and quiet resting alcoves are placed frequently along garden paths, giving little legs plenty of breaks.