As winter arrives, Longwood Gardens invites you to a magical Christmas wonderland. From November 22, 2024, to January 12, 2025, this 1,100-acre estate turns into a winter paradise. It features over half a million twinkling lights12 and fountain shows to holiday tunes2.
Step into the three acres of Longwood’s conservatories, decked out for the holidays. Here, you’ll find unique horticultural wonders that will amaze you1. Explore the reimagined public spaces and the new West Conservatory. It’s a place where Christmas magic comes to life.
Key Takeaways
- Experience a winter wonderland with over half a million twinkling lights at Longwood Gardens
- Explore the specially decorated conservatories and discover unique horticultural highlights
- Immerse yourself in the reimagined public spaces and the new West Conservatory
- Indulge in seasonal culinary delights at the 1906 Restaurant
- Plan your visit with timed tickets and discover the various events and activities
Discover the Magic of A Longwood Christmas
As the days get shorter and the air cooler, Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania turns into a winter wonderland. The longwood gardens christmas celebration starts on November 22, 2024, and ends on January 12, 2025. It’s a top pennsylvania holiday attractions and brandywine valley christmas celebrations spot.
Twinkling Lights and Festive Displays
Walk through the gardens and see over half a million longwood gardens holiday lights lighting up the landscape3. The historic Main Conservatory has holiday trees floating in mid-air over the lawn. The East Conservatory turns into a snow globe, making it magical and part of the longwood gardens holiday display.
Explore the Reimagined Conservatories
Check out the reimagined Longwood Gardens conservatories. The horticulture team has made them festive. In the historic Main Conservatory, you’ll find vintage Christmas trees and a mid-century vibe, like a philadelphia area christmas destinations dream4.
The upcoming A Longwood Christmas will have trees with old-fashioned decorations. It promises a festive and welcoming feel.
Whether you live nearby or are visiting, A Longwood Christmas is a must-see. It’s filled with magical lights, festive decorations, and new conservatory displays. Don’t miss this beloved brandywine valley christmas celebrations tradition.
Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room
This year, Longwood Gardens is introducing a new experience – Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room1. It’s located in the heart of the gardens, making it a cozy spot during your Longwood Gardens holiday visit1.
When you enter The Fountain Room, you’ll see the Main Fountain Garden1. Here, you can enjoy a variety of treats, drinks, and hot chocolate1.
This new experience is great for warming up and enjoying Longwood Gardens’ holiday display1. Tickets cost $178.74 for adults, $117.34 for teens, and $74.94 for kids1.
Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room is perfect for a cozy break or to enjoy holiday flavors1. It’s a key spot for Brandywine Valley Christmas celebrations1. Don’t miss this chance to make your Longwood Gardens’ holiday events unforgettable1.
Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience
Get ready to be amazed by Longwood Gardens’ new look – Longwood Reimagined. This big update brings a new journey through the gardens. It goes from beautiful formal gardens to wide views over Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley5.
The New West Conservatory
The West Conservatory is the main attraction of Longwood Reimagined. It’s a 32,000-square-foot wonder designed by WEISS/MANFREDI6. Its design makes it seem like it’s floating on water6.
This amazing building will show off plants from the Mediterranean. You’ll see Agaves, Aloes, and Bismark Palms there6.
The Cascade Garden has been moved and redesigned by Roberto Burle Marx6. It’s now a glasshouse with 16 waterfalls and climbing vines. It’s a peaceful spot in Longwood Gardens6.
Expanded Public Spaces and Gardens
Longwood Reimagined also adds new areas to explore. There’s the Conservatory Terrace Overlook, Lower Conservatory Plaza, and a long promenade6. These new spots let visitors dive deeper into Longwood Gardens’ beauty6.
A new education and administration building, The Grove, is being built. The Potting Shed is also getting a makeover to show off its bonsai collection6. The Bonsai Courtyard will feature rare Japanese trees, creating a peaceful area for visitors6.
Longwood Reimagined shows the gardens’ dedication to innovation and sustainability. It makes Longwood Gardens a top longwood gardens events, longwood gardens holiday display, and pennsylvania holiday attractions spot for years to come7.
“The new West Conservatory will be a true centerpiece of Longwood Reimagined, showing the incredible variety of plants from Mediterranean regions.”
Festive Events and Activities
Longwood Gardens is a magical place during the holidays. You can see stunning light displays and explore new conservatories8. There’s also the Garden Railway, Open Air Theatre Fountain Shows, and holiday-themed classes and workshops8.
Holiday Classes and Workshops
Longwood offers many holiday classes and workshops. You can learn about Christmas tree cultivation, wine selection, and making handmade holiday cards8.
“The holiday workshops at Longwood Gardens are a delightful way to experience the magic of the season. From floral arranging to festive baking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Longwood’s holiday events are perfect for anyone who loves Christmas. The place is filled with twinkling lights and beautiful conservatories8. It’s a top spot for Pennsylvania holiday attractions, Brandywine Valley Christmas celebrations, and Philadelphia area Christmas destinations8.
1906 Restaurant: A Culinary Delight
The Longwood Reimagined project has revamped the 1906 Restaurant. It now boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Main Fountain Garden1. Guests can savor new dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients for a unique dining experience9. The 1906 Bar & Lounge also offers tasty snacks, a wide selection of wines and beers, and creative cocktails.
The 1906 Restaurant at Longwood Gardens serves lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily. It offers a prix-fixe dinner from 5-6:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5-8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday during the holiday season9. Reservations are highly recommended.
1906 is not the only dining option at Longwood Gardens. The casual The Café can seat more guests than 1906 during A Longwood Christmas9. The Café is a big hit, making up over half of The Terrace’s food sales9.
| Restaurant | Seating Capacity | Seasonal Hours | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1906 Restaurant | Seats about 68 indoors and 60 on the tented patio during the holiday season | Lunch daily 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Dinner 5-6:30 p.m. Sun-Thu, 5-8 p.m. Fri-Sat | Seasonal prix-fixe menu |
| The Café | Larger seating capacity than 1906 | Open daily 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (limited menu last hour) | Soups from $6.75, Main dishes $13-$20 |
| Beer Garden | N/A | Mon-Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat-Sun 12-10 p.m. (weather permitting) | Cheese Pizza $14, Cheeseburger $16, Vegan BBQ “Pork” $12 |
Whether you prefer fine dining at 1906 or a casual meal at The Café, Longwood Gardens offers a culinary adventure. It’s perfect for exploring this Pennsylvania holiday attraction10.
The Longwood Reimagined project aims to enhance the dining experience at Longwood Gardens1. The 1906 Restaurant focuses on seasonal, local ingredients and offers stunning garden views. It’s a must-visit during your Brandywine Valley Christmas celebrations or trip to this Philadelphia area Christmas destination.
christmas at longwood gardens
Experience the magic of Christmas at Longwood Gardens, a winter wonderland in the Brandywine Valley11. This iconic Pennsylvania destination attracts visitors from everywhere. They come to see its twinkling lights, festive displays, and reimagined conservatories11. Longwood Gardens offers a unique Christmas experience, whether you’re looking for a holiday event or a peaceful break11.
A Longwood Christmas is a sight to behold, with over12550,000 lights turning the gardens into a dazzling wonderland12. The main conservatory is transformed into a holiday street scene from the 1940s and 1950s. It features a 24-foot grand fir and an 18-foot-tall rotating tree with vintage lights and ornaments12. Thousands of vibrant poinsettias, begonias, and other seasonal flora surround you, filling you with holiday spirit12.
Outside, the fountain shows are captivating, with12750 water jets dancing to holiday music at the Open Air Theatre. There’s also a1230-foot-tall floating tree with icy adornments12. With13over 50 miles of lights, snowflakes, orbs, and uplighting for more than 150 outdoor trees, the outdoor displays are breathtaking13.
While exploring, enjoy the seasonal food at The Fountain Room. It offers festive flavors in a festive setting11. Don’t miss the gift shop, with a selection of garden-related products and unique plants, perfect for Christmas gifts13.
Plan your visit to Longwood Gardens this Christmas season and experience the magic for yourself11. With timed tickets recommended, and early arrival advised, a visit to Longwood Gardens is sure to fill you with holiday cheer13.
Longwood Gardens is a must-see for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit11. Its enchanting displays, festive events, and culinary delights make it a Christmas wonderland that will leave a lasting impression11.
Plan Your Visit
Visiting the longwood gardens holiday display at longwood gardens events needs planning. You’ll need timed admission tickets to see the pennsylvania holiday attractions. This includes Longwood Reimagined and A Longwood Christmas14.
Ticketing and Reservations
Longwood Members must book timed visits every day during the brandywine valley christmas celebrations. You can also buy tickets for Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room, which includes Gardens Admission14.
Longwood has special rates for groups like military, veterans, youth, and seniors15. SNAP EBT or PA ACCESS cardholders get a discount of $2 per person for up to 4 people (ages 5 and up)15. Veterans and active military get a discount on Adult general admissions tickets15.
You can buy Longwood gift cards in any amount, valid all year, and never expire15. Complimentary Guest Tickets are for one-time general admission, but not for special events or peak seasons15. Kids under 4 get in free and don’t need a timed ticket15.
Parking at Longwood Gardens is free, with spots near the Visitor Center15. There are three charging stations for electric/hybrid cars, available on a first-come basis15. Longwood also keeps up with cleaning and offers hand sanitizer stations due to COVID-1915.
Explore the Seasons at Longwood Gardens
The winter season at Longwood Gardens is magical. But the gardens are stunning all year. Spring brings vibrant blooms, summer has dancing fountains, and autumn shows off chrysanthemums. There’s always something new to see at this iconic Pennsylvania spot16.
In spring, the gardens are a colorful explosion of flowers16. The Meadow Garden, covering 86 acres, is filled with wildflowers and grasses17. Summer’s fountain shows are mesmerizing, with 35,000 gallons of water moving to music17.
Fall brings crisp weather and chrysanthemum displays. The Orchid House shows off up to 500 plants1617. The Chrysanthemum Festival in late September to November is a highlight for fall lovers17.
Longwood Gardens is exciting all year for visitors of all ages. Whether you love the holiday lights or the gardens in bloom, it’s an unforgettable place16.
Longwood Gardens is getting a 17-acre makeover. New gardens and spaces will open in November16. With a focus on horticulture and creating magical spaces, it’s a top spot for nature lovers1617.
“Longwood Gardens is a true gem, with diverse experiences for each season. Spring, summer, fall, or winter, the displays and events are amazing.”
A Longwood Christmas Through the Years
Celebrating Longwood’s Holiday Traditions
Longwood Gardens has a long history of celebrating Christmas. For generations, a Longwood Christmas has been a cherished tradition13. The gardens are famous for their stunning longwood gardens holiday lights and festive decorations13.
Longwood Reimagined brings new life to these traditions. It makes the longwood gardens holiday display a top holiday spot13.
The Christmas Tree at Longwood Gardens began in the 1920s. It drew up to 800 guests, including children of employees4. From 1923 to 1935, Longwood welcomed 350 seniors from Wilmington, DE, for Christmas4.
Over time, the Gardens have grown their holiday offerings. They now feature festive scenes and attractions for all to enjoy13.
Today, visitors can see a 1940s- and 1950s-era holiday street scene in the Conservatory. There’s also a vintage holiday street, a holiday party scene, and new outdoor installations13. The Conservatory showcases original vignettes and floral designs, attracting those interested in floral art13.
Special attractions include the 10,010 Aeolian pipe organ and an outdoor Garden Railway. There’s also a miniaturized version of the Longwood Italian Water Garden in the train garden13.
The brandywine valley christmas celebrations at Longwood Gardens are a beloved tradition. They draw visitors from far and wide to experience the holiday magic13. With over 50 miles of lights, the outdoor displays are a breathtaking sight, lighting up over 150 trees13.
The philadelphia area christmas destinations offer a nostalgic and enchanting experience. Longwood Gardens is a must-visit for those seeking to make lasting holiday memories13.
The current A Longwood Christmas display features trees with throwback baubles and vintage-style bubble lights. There’s also a festive mid-century holiday party and a vintage Christmas street scene4. Visitors are encouraged to buy timed tickets in advance to avoid crowds13.
“Longwood Gardens has a rich history of celebrating the holiday season, with a Longwood Christmas being a beloved tradition for generations.”
Longwood Gardens offers a variety of dining options, including a cafeteria, a Beer Garden, and the 1906 restaurant. There’s also a gift shop with unique plant selections13. The Garden has an interactive children’s garden in the Conservatory, perfect for families13.
As Longwood Reimagined evolves, the holiday traditions at Longwood Gardens remain a cherished part of the pennsylvania holiday attractions. It’s a must-visit for the brandywine valley christmas celebrations and philadelphia area christmas destinations13114.
Conclusion
Longwood Gardens is a winter wonderland like no other. It offers a magical Christmas experience with twinkling lights and festive displays. The reimagined conservatories and seasonal culinary delights add to the fun.
Looking for a new holiday tradition or wanting to dive into the season’s spirit? Longwood Gardens is the perfect place. It’s a mix of history, innovation, and enchanting atmosphere. This makes it a top holiday spot in the Brandywine Valley and a top attraction in Pennsylvania.
Experience the magic of Longwood Gardens this holiday season. Make memories that will last forever. A Longwood Christmas is a celebration of the season in one of the most iconic holiday spots in the Philadelphia area.
When you visit Longwood Gardens this Christmas, check out all the seasonal offerings. Enjoy twinkling lights, festive conservatories, special events, and culinary delights. Let Longwood Gardens be the heart of your holiday celebrations.
FAQ
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Source Links
- Tickets Now on Sale for Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience and A Longwood Christmas – https://longwoodgardens.org/news/press/tickets-now-sale-longwood-reimagined-new-garden-experience-and-longwood-christmas
- Longwood Gardens Celebrates A Very Retro Christmas – https://longwoodgardens.org/news/press/longwood-gardens-celebrates-very-retro-christmas
- A Longwood Christmas in Wilmington, DE | Holiday Events – https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/blog/stories/post/step-into-a-retro-wonderland-a-longwood-christmas-unveiled/
- Longwood Christmas Past – https://longwoodgardens.org/blog/2023-11-15/longwood-christmas-past
- Visit – https://longwoodgardens.org/visit
- Longwood Gardens’ Sweeping Reimagination of its Central Visitor Experience Will Open to the Public on November 22, 2024 – https://longwoodgardens.org/news/press/longwood-gardens-sweeping-reimagination-its-central-visitor-experience-will-open-public
- Longwood Reimagined: The Project Continues – https://longwoodgardens.org/blog/2022-10-12/longwood-reimagined-project-continues
- Tickets to Longwood unveiling, Christmas display now on sale | Delaware LIVE News – https://delawarelive.com/tickets-to-longwood-unveiling-christmas-display-now-on-sale/
- The Terrace at Longwood Gardens: Dine Amidst Garden and Holiday Splendor – https://www.lancastercountymag.com/the-terrace-at-longwood/
- Complete Dining Guide to Longwood Gardens: Fine Dishes to Scenic Picnic Spots – https://vista.today/2024/07/complete-dining-guide-longwood-gardens/
- Holiday Lights & Events at Longwood Gardens | Brandywine Valley – https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/events/holiday/a-longwood-christmas/
- A Longwood Christmas Goes Retro for 2023 – https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/events/longwood-gardens-christmas/
- A Very Retro Christmas at Longwood Gardens – https://thegardendiaries.blog/2023/11/29/a-very-retro-christmas-at-longwood-gardens/
- Visiting Guidelines – https://longwoodgardens.org/visit/visiting-guidelines
- Frequently Asked Questions – https://longwoodgardens.org/visit/frequently-asked-questions
- The Definitive Guide to Visiting Longwood Gardens in 2024 – https://vista.today/2024/05/visiting-longwood-gardens-2024/
- Longwood Gardens: Four Seasons Of Botanical Beauty – https://njmom.com/guide/longwood-gardens-fire-ice-and-everything-nice-for-a-longwood-christmas/