Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Announces December Nights and Holiday Lights

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, November 6th, 2026

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens will transform into a winter wonderland as December Nights and Holiday Lights, presented by Pat and Howard Hackney, returns for its 15th season. Held on select evenings from Nov. 28 through Dec. 24, 2026, at the Gardens, 2 Canebrake Road in Savannah, the beloved holiday tradition will feature millions of twinkling lights, festive displays and illuminated garden pathways for families and friends to explore.

December Nights and Holiday Lights will be held Nov. 28; Dec. 4-5; Dec. 11-12; Dec. 14-19; and Dec. 21-24. Timed-entry arrival windows begin at 5:30 p.m., with the final arrival window at 8 p.m. General admission tickets are $15 per person in advance or $20 at the door. Children ages two and younger are admitted free, and parking is free. To purchase tickets in advance, guests should visit coastalbg.uga.edu/holiday-lights/. Advance purchases are encouraged, as popular evenings may sell out.

New for 2026 is the Merry and Bright VIP Experience, a $10-per-child add-on available in limited quantities for each time slot. Children can enjoy hot chocolate, a make-and-take craft, a light-up necklace and an additional holiday photo opportunity. There is no additional VIP experience charge for adults accompanying children. Food is not included in the VIP experience.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase by all event guests. The Dawg House Café, operated by a local 4-H group, will offer light dinner options. Guests may also purchase s'mores packages to roast over a fire, gingerbread cookies from Auspicious Bakery, and coffee, hot chocolate and other hot beverages from the Travelin' Tom's coffee truck.

The outdoor walking experience typically takes about an hour, and the garden pathways are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

“December Nights and Holiday Lights has become a treasured holiday tradition for families throughout Coastal Georgia and beyond,” said Elise Zador, director of the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens. “There is something truly magical about seeing the gardens transformed by millions of lights and sharing that experience with the people you love. We’re excited to welcome both longtime visitors and first-time guests this holiday season.”

Each year, the Gardens’ staff designs, creates and installs the entire holiday lights experience. Proceeds remain local and help support the Gardens’ operations and year-round work.

For tickets and additional event information, visit coastalbg.uga.edu/holiday-lights/.