Brookgreen Gardens’ “Nights of a Thousand Candles” is hands down our FAVORITE Christmas tradition in the lowcountry. It’s hard to describe how magical and perfect of an evening it is.
Here’s a handy guide to making the most of your Nights of a Thousand Candles visit at Brookgreen Gardens:
There are thousands of light shows across the country but I guarantee you’ve never seen anything like this festival of lights. Brookgreen Gardens in Pawley’s Island is home to one of the most spectacular collections of sculpture in the country. At Christmas, they place thousands of Christmas lights, luminaries and candles throughout their distinct gardens. The result is nothing short of magical.
After doing this for a couple of years, I suggest you arrive early. Nights of a Thousand Candles is a really popular event and, after dusk, the lines of cars extend far down Highway 17. If you arrive around 4:00, there’s plenty to do. This year, we enjoyed some music in the grand tent and took in the interior exhibits. The train villages and the indoor forest were some of our favorite exhibits this year. There was also a window exhibit with stunning Tiffany & Co. costume jewelry (which only mom enjoyed!).
The dining options are great and they offer both adult and kid-friendly beverages. The big dining tent had plenty of tasty lowcountry cuisine and we warmed our hands by carrying around mugs of hot chocolate and apple cider.
Make sure to plan for the tree lighting at 5:45. It’s always a thrill to hear the carolers singing “Oh Christmas Tree!” and to see the huge tree light up on the final chorus.
Guests can walk through this wonderland and enjoy a feast for the eyes and ears. While carolers sing and jazz ensembles play, there’s something beautiful around every turn. Massive oaks are draped with ropes of light, creating an enchanted forest. Reflection ponds are filled with floating candles and cranberries to create something out of a fairy tale.
Words cannot do it justice so please browse through the photos below and put this on your calendar for 2016! While you’re at it, make a stop at TW Graham’s in McClellanville and order a seafood platter. You’ll be so glad you did!
