Experience a Different Kind of Holiday Magic at Minnesota’s Winter Lights

Minnesota knows how to do holiday lights. My family loves checking out the longest drive-thru Christmas light show in the state, Duluth’s Bentleyville is celebrated as one of the best holiday attractions in the country, and Sam's Christmas Village lights up the Minnesota-Wisconsin border with16 million lights.

Another light show to check out is at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Its Winter Lights attraction trades the classic Santa-and-reindeer setup for a celebration of nature itself, creating a true winter wonderland.

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What Is The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum?

To truly appreciate the Winter Lights show, you should know about the Landscape Arboretum.

The Arboretum is a world leader in plant science and research, operating as part of the Department of Horticultural Science within the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.

Ever enjoyed a Honeycrisp apple? It was created there, along with more than 160 other cold-hardy plant varieties. Located in Chaska, Minnesota, this massive 1,200-acre public garden and research center attracts nearly 700,000 visitors annually.

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Visitors can explore the grounds year-round via paved paths, like the Three-Mile Walk, or on wooded trails perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. This month guests will enjoy the Winter Lights experience.

The Winter Lights Experience at Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Winter Lights is an immersive indoor and outdoor nighttime experience that celebrates the beauty and wonder of plants in winter. Visitors will see glowing gardens, and nature-inspired installations that truly illuminate the magic of the natural world.

Winter Lights is open select evenings through December 31st. For dates, ticket info, and to learn more visit the event's website.