- What type of experience is Garden of Lights?
Garden of Lights is an outdoor walk-through light exhibit on a half-mile paved trail featuring secular displays of flowers, plants, insects, animals, and other characters. The light display is open during rain, snow, and clear weather.
- Are there any new light displays this year?
This year, we have a several new features: an animated tunnel of lights, a snow machine, and an interactive tap light display near the Children’s Garden providing a magical experience for all ages.
- What COVID-19 safety precautions are you taking during Garden of Lights?
Brookside Gardens continues to follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.
- Will there be music during Garden of Lights 2024?
No, there won’t be any live musical performances this year at Garden of Lights. There will be choreographed recorded music to go along with some light displays.
- Will the miniature train display be on exhibit in the Conservatory during Garden of Lights?
No, The Garden Railway exhibit will not be open during Garden of Lights hours. You can view the Garden Railway exhibit for free during the Conservatory’s daytime hours from 10 am to 3:45 pm, Saturday, November 30 – Sunday, January 5 (closed on December 24 and 25 and January 1). Note: Buildings and grounds will close to the public at 4 pm each day during Garden of Lights then reopen for the ticketed event at 5:00 pm.
- Will the Visitor Center be open during Garden of Lights?
Yes, the Visitor Center will be open, and bathrooms will be available.
- Will there be concessions at Garden of Lights?
Yes. Hot drinks and light refreshments will be available for purchase at the food vendor outdoors.
Outside food and drink, other than bottled water, is not permitted at Brookside Gardens.
- Can I bring my dog to Garden of Lights?
Only service dogs are allowed at Brookside Gardens.
- How do I dress for Garden of Lights?
Garden of Lights is an outdoor light display enjoyed by walking. The full experience is about one-half mile. Wear comfortable shoes, and dress for the weather. Garden of Lights is open during rain, snow, or clear skies.
- If the weather is bad, how do I find out if Garden of Lights 2024 is canceled?
Visit Brookside Gardens’ website and Facebook page for updates.
- Can I arrive early to Brookside Gardens and stay until Garden of Lights opens?
Brookside Gardens will close to all visitors at 4 pm then reopen at 5:00 pm to Garden of Lights ticket holders.
- Can I leave Garden of Lights and come back on the same night?
No, re-entry is not allowed.
- Are the paths at Gardens of Lights 2024 accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, the paths are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Can I borrow a wheelchair at Garden of Lights 2024?
Yes, we have a limited number of wheelchairs available at the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, bathrooms will be open at the Visitor Center during Garden of Lights.
- Will the Gift Shop be open?
Yes, the Gift Shop at the Visitor Center will be open during Garden of Lights for you to take home a souvenir and for holiday shopping.
- Is photography allowed during Garden of Lights?
Personal photography is allowed. All special occasion photography requires a permit. This includes, but not limited to, proposals, weddings, engagement, family, and birthday photo shoots. If you are unsure if your photos require a permit, contact us to find out: BrooksidePhotos@montgomeryparks.org or 301.962.1404.
- Can I have a party or special ceremony during Garden of Lights?
Yes, limited opportunities are available. Contact our events office: BrooksideRentals@montgomeryparks.org or 301.962.1404.
- Can I tag you on social media?
YES! Brookside Gardens is @BrooksideGardens on Facebook. Our account is “Brookside Gardens, Montgomery Parks.” On Instagram and Twitter, please tag @MontgomeryParks and use hashtags #BrooksideGardens #MoCoParks.
- Can I do a live shot or livestreaming at Garden of Lights?
Please contact Media Manager at MC-Public.Affairs@montgomeryparks.org.