Winter’s chill brings a magical change to Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Longwood Gardens, famous for its plants, turns into a holiday wonderland. It invites everyone to join in the Longwood Christmas celebration1.
Starting November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024, Longwood Gardens sparkles with holiday magic1. More than half a million lights light up the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere1. You’ll see big trees with ornaments and hear carolers, making it feel like a vintage wonderland1.
Key Takeaways
- Longwood Christmas is an annual holiday celebration at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
- The event runs from mid-November to early January, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland.
- Visitors can expect over half a million twinkling lights, festive tree displays, and enchanting holiday-themed surprises.
- The event offers a nostalgic and magical experience, transporting guests back to the charm of yesteryear.
- Longwood Gardens is known for its exceptional horticultural displays and world-class botanical collections.
An Enchanting Seasonal Celebration at Longwood Gardens
Join the magic of the holidays at Longwood Gardens’ “A Longwood Christmas” celebration2. It runs from November 17, 2023, to January 7, 2024. This tradition dazzles with light displays, festive events, and stunning botanical exhibits2.
Explore the Dazzling Displays and Festive Events
Walk along the Flower Garden Drive and the Meadow Garden. Here, over half-a-million lights brighten nearly 100 trees2. See the 24-foot grand fir, decked in red and green, and an 18-foot-tall tree with vintage lights and ornaments2.
Longwood Gardens also has seven trees in the Ballroom, decorated by local groups2. The holiday Garden Railway features miniature landmarks in holiday finery2. A 150-foot-long light tunnel in the Main Fountain Garden dazzles with a light show2. The Open Air Theatre shows 5-minute fountain displays with 750 jets to holiday tunes2.
From Twinkling Lights to Botanical Wonders
Visit the conservatories and gardens, filled with floral arrangements and holiday trees3. Learn about Longwood Gardens’ Christmas history, dating back to the 1920s3.
Marvel at the lights, admire the botanicals, or enjoy holiday treats at the Café and Beer Garden2. A Longwood Christmas is a magical celebration of the season3.
Tickets and Reservations for longwood christmas
Planning your visit to A Longwood Christmas needs careful thought about tickets and reservations. You must buy advance timed entry tickets to get into this amazing holiday event at Longwood Gardens4.
Timed Entry Tickets and Member Reservations
The Longwood Christmas hours change during the week. The gardens open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays, Mondays, and Wednesdays. They stay open till 9:00 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Tuesdays are closed4.
Everyone needs Timed Admission Tickets to get in. Longwood Gardens members can book their spots every day during the holiday season4.
Special Events and Experiences
Longwood Christmas offers more than just the main event. You can enjoy special experiences like The Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room. It gives you access to holiday food and drinks5.
Longwood also has holiday classes, workshops, and activities. These let you dive into the holiday magic.
| Longwood Christmas Tickets and Experiences | Price |
|---|---|
| A Longwood Christmas (Adult) | $32 – $424 |
| A Longwood Christmas (Youth) | $235 |
| Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room (with Gardens Admission) | $74.94 – $178.745 |
To enjoy your Longwood Christmas visit, plan ahead and book your tickets and reservations early4. With so many experiences, you’ll make unforgettable holiday memories at this magical place5.
Reimagining Longwood: A New Garden Experience
In 2024, Longwood Gardens will launch its Longwood Reimagined project. This major update aims to improve the guest experience and offer more exhibitions, programs, and events6. The highlight is the new 32,000-square-foot West Conservatory, designed by WEISS/MANFREDI6.
This new addition will have asymmetrical peaks over a calm pool, making it seem like it’s floating on water.
The West Conservatory and Mediterranean-Inspired Gardens
Inside the West Conservatory, visitors will find themselves in a lush, Mediterranean-inspired garden. It features canals, fountains, and many plant species7. The gardens, designed by Reed Hilderbrand, will have 60 permanent and 90 seasonal plant species, changing with the seasons7.
From the Central Grove’s 22 Ginkgo trees to the reimagined Cascade Garden, every detail is carefully planned. It all works together to create a beautiful blend of old and new.
The Longwood Reimagined project is more than just the West Conservatory. It also includes transforming 17 acres of the gardens7. This big change will make visiting Longwood even better and open up new chances for events and exhibits6.
The big day is set for November 22, 2024. The Longwood community is excited for two weeks of fun, including special preview days for members6.
“The new West Conservatory and Mediterranean-inspired gardens will transport visitors to a world of botanical wonder, seamlessly blending the old and the new to create an unforgettable experience.”
The Longwood Reimagined project shows Longwood Gardens’ dedication to growth and innovation. Everyone is looking forward to this new chapter in Longwood’s history67.
Discovering the Magic of the Conservatories
Step into Longwood Gardens during the holiday season and get ready to be amazed. The East Conservatory turns into a magical snow globe, filled with delicate decorations8. The Main Conservatory is a sight to behold, with holiday trees floating above lush greenery8.
The Fern Floor is home to a 30-foot tall tree that shines like crystal, inspired by the new West Conservatory8. This display shows off Longwood Gardens’ skill in blending nature and wonder8.
From Snow Globe Wonderlands to Floating Holiday Trees
Enter a world of wonder in Longwood Gardens’ conservatories9. The East Conservatory is like a snow globe, with design and nature coming together in winter’s beauty9. The Main Conservatory is filled with holiday trees that seem to float, adding to the magic9.
The Fern Floor has a 30-foot tall tree that’s a tribute to the new West Conservatory8. It’s a showcase of Longwood Gardens’ horticultural skills, blending nature, design, and holiday wonder8.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| East Conservatory | Transformed into a snow globe wonderland with delicate decorations |
| Main Conservatory | Showcases fantastical holiday trees that seem to float in mid-air |
| Fern Floor | Features a 30-foot tall shimmering tree that reflects the beauty of the new West Conservatory |
Immerse yourself in the enchanting displays at Longwood Gardens’ conservatories89. Discover the magic of these horticultural wonders and let the season’s enchantment take you to a world of wonder and joy.
Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room
Longwood Gardens’ new Taste of Christmas at The Fountain Room brings the flavors of the season to life. Located in the heart of the gardens, it’s a cozy spot to escape winter’s chill10.
Warm up and enjoy a variety of treats. From sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone. Try festive drinks and rich hot chocolate, and don’t miss the special stations10.
Tickets are needed for this magical experience, with prices for different ages5. Inside, you’ll find a beautifully decorated space. Look out the windows to see the Main Fountain Garden5.
| Ticket Type | Price | Member Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (21+) | $178.74 | $136.74 |
| Youth (13-20) | $117.34 | $94.34 |
| Child (5-12) | $74.94 | $51.94 |
| Child (4 and under) | Free | Free |
Enjoy the longwood gardens christmas experience at the Taste of Christmas. This new spot is a must-try for holiday dining10.
The the fountain room longwood is perfect for enjoying longwood gardens christmas food and drinks. It’s a key part of your holiday visit to longword gardens christmas5. Don’t miss this special culinary adventure105.
Dining Delights: 1906 Restaurant and Casual Fare
Longwood Gardens offers a mix of fresh, local ingredients and beautiful settings. The 1906 Restaurant, part of the Longwood Reimagined project, now has a new dining area. It overlooks the Main Fountain Garden11. Here, you can enjoy dishes made with the best local produce and meats.
The 1906 Bar & Lounge is perfect for light bites, great wines, and classic cocktails. It’s a place to relax and enjoy.
The Café at Longwood Gardens has easy-to-eat options. Soups start at $6.75, and main dishes are $13 to $2011. The Beer Garden offers a fun, brewpub vibe. You can try a $14 Cheese Pizza, a $16 LaFrieda Cheeseburger, or a $12 Vegan BBQ Pulled “Pork” sandwich11.
Seasonal Menus and Elegant Ambiance
The 1906 Restaurant’s menus change with the seasons, using the freshest local ingredients11. Its elegant setting and views of the Main Fountain Garden make dining unforgettable11. Longwood Gardens has something for everyone, from the fancy 1906 to the laid-back Café and Beer Garden.
“Longwood Gardens is a true culinary destination, with exceptional seasonal menus that showcase the best of the region’s produce and artisanal delights.”
| Dining Option | Highlights | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| 1906 Restaurant | Seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients; named one of OpenTable’s 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America in 202411 | – |
| The Café | Variety of ready-to-eat options | Soups starting at $6.75, main dishes $13-$2011 |
| Beer Garden | Relaxed, brewpub-style atmosphere | Cheese Pizza $14, LaFrieda Cheeseburger $16, Vegan BBQ Pulled “Pork” $1211 |
Longwood Gardens has something for everyone. Whether you want a fancy meal or a casual spot, you’ll find it here. From the 1906 Restaurant to the Café and Beer Garden, there’s a place for every taste1112.
Holiday Experiences and Events
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Longwood Gardens. Enjoy a variety of immersive experiences and festive activities. Longwood offers dazzling light displays, botanical wonders, and more. There are classes, workshops, and seasonal events for all ages13.
Classes, Workshops, and Festive Activities
Get creative with Longwood’s holiday-themed classes and workshops. Learn to decorate a Christmas tree or make stunning holiday cards. You can even take smartphone photography classes in the conservatories13.
For families, there’s the Garden Railway and Lookout Loft Treehouse. They offer endless fun and exploration13.
- Christmas tree decorating workshops
- Handmade holiday card-making classes
- Smartphone photography sessions in the conservatories
- Garden Railway and Lookout Loft Treehouse for family fun
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Longwood’s activities and events13. Enjoy the fountain shows at the Open Air Theatre and the floating tree in the outdoor gardens. There’s wonder and delight everywhere14.
“A Longwood Christmas is a truly magical experience, filled with twinkling lights, botanical displays, and engaging activities for the whole family.” – Visitor testimonial
Plan your visit to Longwood Gardens. Discover the holiday experiences and events that make it a must-visit in winter14.
Exploring Longwood’s Seasonal Beauty
Longwood Gardens is more than just lights and exhibits. It’s a place to see the gardens’ natural beauty in longwood gardens winter. It has been named the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights for five years in a row by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards14. Visitors can walk through the peaceful Meadow Garden and see the Main Fountain Garden’s beauty. They can also find the longwood gardens seasonal exhibits across the 1,100-acre property15.
The Longwood Christmas lights make a magical winter wonderland with over 550,000 lights14. The main conservatory is filled with a holiday scene from the 1940s and 1950s. It has a 24-foot grand fir decorated in red and green14. There are also fountain shows and a 200-foot-long tunnel with lights along the Meadow Boardwalk14.
The 2023 longwood gardens christmas features a vintage holiday street and a holiday party scene. There are new outdoor installations and classic ornaments14. A 30-foot-tall floating tree with icy decorations is a highlight14. Timed tickets are needed, so buying them in advance is a good idea14.
The longwood gardens outdoor attractions offer a peaceful setting for exploring. Longwood Gardens is near Kennett Square, about an hour from Philadelphia1415.
Planning Your Visit to A Longwood Christmas
To enjoy A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens, follow some key tips. First, buy your timed entry tickets early to pick your best time16. You need tickets to get in, and booking ahead helps you visit when you want16.
With your tickets, plan to spend lots of time in the west conservatory and the Mediterranean gardens17. The Longwood Reimagined project covers 17 acres, giving you a magical experience17. Make sure to see the holiday lights and plants, and join in the festive events and activities16.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Holiday Adventure
- Purchase timed entry tickets in advance to secure your preferred timeslot
- Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring the four-acre conservatory and grounds during your visit
- Arrive around 3 pm to experience the gardens by both day and night16
- Enjoy the various dining options, including the Cafe and 1906 fine dining restaurant16
- Be mindful of the Gardens’ Code of Conduct to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors17
By following these tips, you’ll have a memorable holiday at Longwood Gardens. You’ll get the most out of your planning longwood christmas, longwood gardens christmas visit, longwood gardens holiday tips, visiting longwood gardens christmas, longwood gardens christmas experience1716.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Holiday Tradition
Visiting Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens is a holiday tradition you can’t miss. It offers an enchanting experience for all ages. The gardens light up with dazzling displays and showcase botanical wonders, turning the grounds into a winter wonderland18.
Longwood Gardens welcomes over 1.5 million visitors each year. The Longwood Christmas event draws about 450,000 guests annually18. The 86-acre gardens, from the Meadow Garden to the Flower Garden Walk, provide a beautiful setting for the holiday celebration18.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been many times, Longwood Christmas will leave you with unforgettable memories. The festive dining, seasonal events, and attractions like the Chimes Tower make it a special experience18.
FAQ
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Source Links
- 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 Gardens Celebrates A Very Retro Christmas – https://longwoodgardens.org/news/press/longwood-gardens-celebrates-very-retro-christmas
- Longwood Christmas Past – https://longwoodgardens.org/blog/2023-11-15/longwood-christmas-past
- Visit – https://longwoodgardens.org/visit
- 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 in Wilmington, DE | Conservatory & Events – https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/blog/stories/post/longwood-gardens-sweeping-reimagination-set-to-open-november-2024/
- 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
- Experiencing the Magic of Christmas at Longwood Gardens – https://uncoveringpa.com/christmas-at-longwood-gardens
- Some Christmas Magic At Longwood Gardens. – Keep Your Eyes Peeled – https://keepyoureyespeeled.net/some-christmas-magic-at-longwood-gardens/
- Longwood Gardens Unveils Longwood Reimagined: A New Era for Garden Enthusiasts – MyChesCo – https://www.mychesco.com/a/entertainment/longwood-gardens-unveils-longwood-reimagined-a-new-era-for-garden-enthusiasts/
- Complete Dining Guide to Longwood Gardens: Fine Dishes to Scenic Picnic Spots – https://vista.today/2024/07/complete-dining-guide-longwood-gardens/
- Day Trip to Kennett Square and the Brandywine Valley – https://edibledelmarva.ediblecommunities.com/things-do/day-trip-kennett-square-and-brandywine-valley
- 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 Magical Holiday Experience Awaits on A Day Trip to Longwood Gardens | DiscoverNEPA – https://discovernepa.com/events/fairs-and-festivals/a-magical-holiday-experience-awaits-on-a-day-trip-to-longwood-gardens/
- Tips for Experiencing Christmas at Longwood Gardens – https://we3travel.com/christmas-longwood-gardens/
- Visiting Guidelines – https://longwoodgardens.org/visit/visiting-guidelines
- The Definitive Guide to Visiting Longwood Gardens in 2024 – https://vista.today/2024/05/visiting-longwood-gardens-2024/