The Magic of Nights of Lights Shines at Pinecrest Gardens
The holiday season comes alive after dark at Pinecrest Gardens, where the beloved Nights of Lights festival transforms the botanical gardens into a dazzling illuminated wonderland. Thousands of twinkling lights wind through garden pathways, trees, and signature landscapes, creating a festive nighttime experience that invites the community to celebrate the season in a unique and memorable setting.
Located at 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, Nights of Lights takes place on select evenings throughout December, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the gardens after sunset. With the holidays fast approaching, guests are encouraged to visit before December 23, as the event approaches its final stretch and some of the most popular dates tend to sell out.
Nights of Lights blends holiday tradition, live entertainment, and nature into one immersive experience. Each evening features family-friendly favorites such as train displays, visits and photos with Santa, holiday story times, and carolers filling the air with seasonal cheer. The park’s accessible playground remains open during evening hours, while vendors throughout the gardens offer festive treats, signature drinks, and holiday refreshments.
A highlight of the festival is its rotating lineup of live performances, which changes nightly. The Banyan Bowl amphitheater hosts free holiday concerts included with general admission, showcasing youth orchestras, symphonic bands, dance groups, and mariachi performances that add cultural flair to the celebration. On select nights, guests can also enjoy special ticketed performances, including intimate candlelight concerts and evenings featuring jazz, soul, and blues-inspired holiday music.
Families will find Nights of Lights to be the perfect setting for creating lasting holiday memories. Special programming on select evenings includes appearances by beloved characters and screenings of classic holiday films, ensuring that no two visits feel the same.
“Nights of Lights allows families to experience Pinecrest Gardens in a completely different way, highlighting the beauty of our landscape under thousands of lights,” said Cristina Blanco, executive director of Pinecrest Gardens, noting that the event was designed to be accessible, welcoming, and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Tickets are available at pinecrestgardens.org/nol and at the gate, though advance purchase is strongly recommended due to high demand. The event is held rain or shine, offers complimentary parking, and has limited nightly capacity.
With the season in full swing, now is the perfect time to visit Pinecrest Gardens before December 23 and experience one of South Florida’s most enchanting holiday traditions.
