Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum returns November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027. This outdoor walk-through event lights up the Arboretum’s gardens with more than one million lights. New displays announced for 2026 include ‘Forest Floor,’ ‘Beneath the Riverbed,’ and ‘Between Water and Woods.’
We've attended Winter Lights in Asheville, NC for several years now, and always enjoy going. Winter Lights is one of the very best Christmas light events in the Asheville, NC area.
This is a wonderful event for the whole family and a great way to celebrate the holiday season here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This guide will give you all the details, like how to get there, where to park, and tips we've learned to better enjoy your visit!
Updated: Nov 3, 2026 - 2026 Winter Lights Information
Our Winter Lights Videos
Dates, Hours and Tickets
Winter Lights runs November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
Advance purchase is recommended because popular dates can sell out. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.; last entry is at 9:00 p.m.; the event closes at 10:00 p.m. Standard-size vehicle admission is per vehicle; the premium Winter Lights Trolley is priced per person. If space allows, tickets may be available at the gate from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., at a higher price.
Ticket prices vary by date and demand. Check the official Winter Lights website for current ticket options and pricing.
How to get there
The Arboretum is next to the Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 393. From I-26 West, take Exit 33 and follow NC 191 South toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Arboretum entrance. Check the official directions for current routing details.
At the gate, have your ticket ready to scan. Your ticket will be emailed after online purchase.
Best Address for GPS:
20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way
Asheville, NC 28806
To aid traffic flow, follow the Arboretum’s current Winter Lights directions and event signs. Traffic routing may change during the event season.
Our 2025 Visit: Thomas Dambo’s Trolls
During our 2025 visit, a new addition to Winter Lights was the Dambo Trolls, and they were a real highlight of our visit. We had heard about them, but seeing them in person at night is something special. The warm lights bring out the details in the wood and give the trolls a fun and slightly mysterious look that fits perfectly with the nighttime setting.
During our visit, we spotted them in different areas along the paths, adding a sense of discovery. Families gathered around them, with lots of kids running up for photos. The trolls felt like a natural part of the event and added extra creativity and whimsy to the gardens.
We slowed down to enjoy the trolls and found it easier to take photos earlier in the evening, before the crowds built. They were one of the standout features of our 2025 visit. These photos and observations do not confirm the displays for 2026.
Things to see and do
The display names and photos below reflect our 2025 visit and may not appear at the 2026 event. During our 2025 visit, we saw:
- Magnificent Monarchs - Lighted Butterflies around water
- Magical Maples - Beautiful lighted maple trees that change color
- Wishing Trees
- Rocky Cove Railroad - Decorated to the theme of the Polar Express
- Spring Sprouts
- Tree of Light - Animated Christmas tree with full of colors and animations
- Quilt Garden - The quilt flashes in sequence with the holiday music
- Fall Fungi - Explore the lighted mushrooms and flowers
- The Wishing Tree - Write your wish down, and place it on one of the wishing trees.
- and more!
During our 2025 visit, we also found refreshment stands with snacks, holiday treats and hot chocolate, and Santa was there. Here are all the photos from that 2025 visit:
Tips and things to know before you go
We've been to Winter Lights a number of times over the years. In doing so, we've picked up a few important things you need to know, and some tips to help you enjoy your visit!
Things to know:
- Pets are not permitted. ADA-defined service dogs are welcome.
- Winter Lights is an all-weather event unless a weather emergency closes the Arboretum.
- Restrooms will be available in the Baker Visitor Center and Education Center, and there will be portable restrooms available for use.
- The event is wheelchair accessible
- The Arboretum says displays are best viewed from paved paths. Accessible parking is available, and a limited number of wheelchairs can be borrowed first-come, first-served; an accessible-paths map is available.
- Food and beverages are available: The Arbor Eatery at the Education Center will sell food, hot cocoa, alcoholic beverages and s’more kits. Two Cocoa Shack locations in the gardens will sell hot cocoa, alcoholic beverages and treats.
Tips from us:
- Dress warm and in layers, it can be very cold and windy during the event.
- There is a lovely Christmas store in the Education Center full of unique and beautiful items
- Food, drinks, and snacks are also available, including hot chocolate (and beer)!
- Facing the Arboretum (you'll see the lights), we've found the easiest way to see all the lights is from the right side near the Education Center. You can then walk down to the Baker Visitor Center from there.
- Plan to arrive on time or shortly after your time, as they cannot allow people in early.
- The staff makes arrival and parking very easy - Just follow the directions from the entry gate, drive down the entry road, and watch for the parking attendants who will point you to the right place.
- The area is very dark, which makes the lights beautiful, BUT, it makes it difficult to get photos with a camera. Using your iPhone or a higher end digital camera is your best option.
