Garden of Lights 2026 Returns to Heathcote Botanical Gardens!
The holiday season is about to get a whole lot brighter! Heathcote Botanical Gardens is getting ready to transform into a sparkling winter wonderland for Garden of Lights 2026, one of the Treasure Coast’s most anticipated holiday traditions.
Families, friends, and holiday lovers are invited to stroll through the beautifully illuminated gardens and experience the magic of more than one million twinkling lights, dazzling displays, festive activities, and plenty of opportunities to make holiday memories..
Garden of Lights 2026 Dates
This year’s Garden of Lights will be held on the following evenings from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM:
- Friday, December 4
- Saturday, December 5
- Sunday, December 6
- Friday, December 11
- Saturday, December 12
- Sunday, December 13
- Monday, December 14
- Friday, December 18
- Saturday, December 19
- Sunday, December 20
- Saturday, December 26
- Sunday, December 27
Please note: Garden of Lights will be closed on Christmas Day, Friday, December 25.
A Million Lights and Holiday Magic
Once the sun goes down, Heathcote Botanical Gardens takes on an entirely new look. More than one million lights will illuminate the gardens, creating a magical backdrop for an evening of holiday fun.
Visitors can look forward to brand-new light displays, along with exciting new “spin-offs” of some favorite scenes from previous years. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to make Garden of Lights an annual tradition, there will be plenty to discover throughout the Gardens.
Scavenger Hunt Fun for the Kids
Children can make their visit even more exciting with a fun scavenger hunt throughout the Gardens. Participants will receive a list of creatures to search for as they explore the illuminated pathways and displays. Kids can keep their eyes open and see how many of the featured creatures they can find along the way. Once they complete the scavenger hunt, children will receive a special prize to celebrate their accomplishment. It is a fun way to encourage young visitors to explore the Gardens while adding an extra element of adventure to their holiday evening.
Santa, Food Trucks and More
Garden of Lights isn’t just about the lights. Santa Claus will be making appearances on select nights, giving children the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes and snap a festive photo.
You’ll also find food trucks serving up tasty treats throughout the evening. Grab a bite, enjoy something sweet, and keep the holiday spirit going as you explore the illuminated gardens.
The Treasure Coast Woodturners will also return, spinning wooden tops for children. These colorful creations make a fun little keepsake to take home and remember your evening at Heathcote.
Garden of Lights 2026 Admission
Admission is family-friendly, with special pricing for children and Heathcote members.
- Adults: $15
- Children ages 6–17: $5
- Heathcote Members: $10
- Children under 6: Free
- Reciprocal garden access is not valid for this event.
Tickets will be available through Heathcote Botanical Gardens in early November:
- Online
- In the gift shop
- At the gate upon arrival at the event.
Where Is Garden of Lights?
Garden of Lights takes place at:
Heathcote Botanical Gardens
210 Savannah Road
Fort Pierce, FL 34982
The Gardens provide a beautiful setting for this annual holiday celebration and seeing them illuminated after dark makes for an especially memorable evening.
A Few Things to Know Before You Go
Garden of Lights is a nighttime outdoor event, so dress comfortably and be prepared to spend your evening walking through the Gardens.
Please also remember that pets are not permitted inside the Gardens. Only ADA-compliant service animals are allowed.
With thousands of visitors expected throughout the season, it is a good idea to plan ahead, purchase your tickets, and arrive ready to enjoy an evening filled with holiday lights and cheer.
Make Garden of Lights Part of Your Holiday Tradition
Whether you’re looking for a fun family night out, a festive date night, a special photo opportunity, or simply a chance to soak up some holiday spirit, Garden of Lights 2026 at Heathcote Botanical Gardens is a wonderful way to celebrate the season.
So grab your loved ones, bring the kids, and get ready to glow!
Mark your calendar for Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6; Friday, December 11 through Monday, December 14; Friday, December 18 through Sunday, December 20; and Saturday, December 26 through Sunday, December 27.
Come experience the magic of more than one million lights at Heathcote Botanical Gardens.
Garden of Lights 2026 is where the Gardens shine, the holidays come alive, and memories are made.
