About the Festival
Set in the picturesque Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, December Nights and Holiday Lights is a yearly lighting event that transforms the venue into a world of colors and sparkling lights. Celebrating its 14th season this 2025, the holiday lighting event has been illuminating Christmas with breathtaking attractions and cheerful displays. Over the years, its ever-evolving light exhibition has made it a must-see seasonal tradition in Georgia.
This holiday festival of lights is perfect for all ages, as it provides the perfect setting for families and friends to celebrate the yuletide season. Kids, especially, will love the imaginative and whimsical light sculptures scattered all across the venue. With the festival’s eye-catching attractions and festive atmosphere, attendees can expect to have a great time creating new Christmas memories to cherish.
Here are some of the attractions you can enjoy at the December Nights & Holiday Lights:
- Fairy Lights: These tiny lights adorn pathways and garden features, casting a glow that turns the entire venue into a storybook setting.
- Glowing Trees: The trees in the garden are wrapped in sparkling lights, making them a must-see attraction at night.
- Light Sculptures: Light sculptures depicting Christmas characters and symbols are displayed across the venue, capturing the essence of the yuletide season.
- Light Trail: This feature guides visitors smoothly through the gardens. It makes exploring the venue easy and enjoyable.
- Tunnel of Lights: One of the favorite attractions, this lighting display provides an interactive experience to guests. Walking through the illuminated, glowing tunnel makes guests feel like they were travelling through a labyrinth of stars.
Festival Dates
The December Nights & Holiday Lights festival usually takes place from late November to December, perfectly aligning with the holiday season. This schedule provides enough time for anyone who wishes to see all the captivating attractions of this yearly magical event. The extended run of the festival also gives visitors from afar the chance to enjoy and experience this dazzling occasion.
For 2025, the festival took place from November 28 to December 20, immersing visitors into a magical wonderland of bright, colorful lights and Christmas displays. For its next season, organizers are yet to announce the dates, but the future edition will likely follow the same schedule. However, to make sure you get the official dates, it’s best to stay tuned or visit the festival’s official website for the latest updates.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is located at 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, Georgia, set in a quiet pocket just outside the busy historic districts. The garden provides the perfect setting for a night of mesmerizing displays and sparkling Christmas lights. This festival location is also easily accessible from central Savannah and nearby areas, making the festival a hard-to-miss event.
The closest airport to the festival location is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located about 13.9 miles away, or roughly a 23-minute drive. The airport serves many major U.S. cities and is a convenient entry point for holiday visitors. From there, reaching the botanical gardens is simple and flexible, depending on how you prefer to travel.
Getting from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport to the Festival:
- Car rental: Available directly at the airport and ideal for visitors who want full flexibility during their stay.
- Taxi or ride-share: Uber, Lyft, and local taxis offer direct service and are widely used.
- Hotel shuttle + short ride: Some hotels provide airport shuttles, followed by a brief taxi or ride-share trip to the gardens.
Getting to Savannah by Train from Nearby Cities:
- From Charleston, South Carolina: Amtrak offers direct service along the East Coast route to Savannah, followed by a short drive from the station to the gardens.
- From Jacksonville, Florida: Direct Amtrak trains run north to Savannah, making this a smooth and stress-free option for travelers coming from Florida.
- From other cities: Savannah’s Amtrak station connects to several coastal routes, with local taxis and ride-shares available for the final leg to the festival site.
If you liked this festival, you can also check out these other amazing holiday lighting events across the United States:
Festival of Lights Balboa Park
Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival
Festival Hours
If you wish to take part in the December Nights & Holiday Lights, you can catch the festival from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM on select evenings. Happening within these four hours is the magic of the festival – from the captivating Christmas lights displays and attractions to enjoying hot cocoa, smores, and great food along the way.
Take note of these festival hours to make the most of the December Nights & Holiday Lights.
How Much Does It Cost to Attend the December Nights and Holiday Lights
December Nights & Holiday Lights is a ticketed event, so you’ll want to plan ahead before heading out. Tickets are purchased online and linked to a specific entry time, which helps keep the evening running smoothly. This approach takes the stress out of arrival and keeps the flow of visitors comfortable.
Picking a time slot also makes it easier for you to organize your night. Arriving close to your chosen window helps avoid waiting at the entrance. Once inside, you can slow down, explore the gardens, and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: $15 per person
- Children (ages 3 and under): Free
For more details on ticket prices, you can visit the festival’s official website and social media channels.
Weather and What to Wear
Savannah sees generally mild weather from November through December, making evenings outdoors comfortable and easy to enjoy. Daytime temperatures often sit between 17°C and 22°C, while nights cool down to around 8°C to 12°C, bringing a crisp feel with gentle breezes.
What to Wear for December Nights & Holiday Lights:
- Light jacket or coat – Nights can feel noticeably cooler once darkness settles in, so a light jacket adds just enough warmth. It keeps you comfortable without weighing you down as you walk through the gardens.
- Long-sleeve shirts or sweaters – These are ideal for layering and help adjust to changing temperatures throughout the evening. They’re comfortable on their own and work well under a jacket.
- Comfortable walking shoes – Expect plenty of strolling along garden paths, so supportive footwear makes a big difference. Comfortable shoes help you stay focused on the sights instead of tired feet.
- Optional scarf or light layers – A scarf or thin gloves can be useful later in the evening when the air feels cooler. They’re easy to tuck away and nice to have when temperatures dip.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to stay near the festival, here are some hotels to consider:
- Hampton Inn Savannah-Historic District – A dependable choice for travelers who like things easy and comfortable, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a daily breakfast, and an outdoor pool for quick downtime. You’ll also appreciate how close it is to Savannah’s Historic District, with the property located at 201 E Bay St.
- The Ann Savannah, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy – Located at 110 Ann St, this four-star stay offers apartment-style rooms that feel more like home than a traditional hotel. Air-conditioned spaces, free Wi-Fi, a pet-friendly policy, and an outdoor pool make it a great pick if you like extra room to spread out.
- Hilton Garden Inn Savannah Historic District – If winding down matters just as much as exploring, this hotel delivers with an outdoor pool and a relaxing hot tub. Free Wi-Fi and comfortable rooms round out the experience, while its location on West Bay Street keeps you close to the city’s main attractions.
Where to Eat
For anyone planning to attend December Nights and Holiday Lights, here are some dining spots you can check out:
- Vic’s On the River – Dining here feels special thanks to its setting inside a historic warehouse overlooking the river. The menu leans into Southern classics like fried green tomatoes and grilled salmon, and you’ll find it in Rousakis Riverfront Plaza at 26 E Bay Street.
- The Cotton Exchange Tavern – Exposed brick walls and a casual, welcoming vibe set the tone for this River Street staple. Seafood, steaks, and Southern-style dishes fill the menu, making this dining spot a must-visit.
- The Olde Pink House – This elegant spot is known for its inventive take on Southern cuisine and its rich historic charm. Set inside a Colonial-era mansion at 23 Abercorn Street, it also features live music in the cellar tavern, adding to the overall experience.
More Places to Explore in the Area
Beyond the glow of the festival, Savannah offers plenty of places worth exploring if you want to make more of your visit. Here are some of the attractions you can check out:
- Savannah Historic District – Situated in downtown Savannah, this expansive historic area is filled with cobblestone streets, shaded squares, and grand old homes. Walking through its moss-covered oaks, museums, and lively corners gives you a real sense of the city’s character and history.
- Georgia State Railroad Museum – This museum focuses on Savannah’s deep connection to rail travel, featuring preserved trains and hands-on exhibits. It’s located within a former railway complex at 655 Louisville Road, adding an authentic feel to the experience.
- Forsyth Park – Known for its wide green spaces and relaxed atmosphere, this park is a great place to pause and recharge. Sitting right in the middle of Savannah’s historic district, Forsyth Park blends open lawns and walking paths with the rhythm of city life.
A Sparkling Conclusion: Final Thoughts on December Nights and Holiday Lights
December Nights and Holiday Nights is a Christmas event that should be a part of your holiday bucket list. With captivating lights that transform the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens into a sparkling wonderland, this festival of lights is definitely one of the best ways to celebrate the yuletide season together with your family and friends.
Beyond the colorful lights, the city of Savannah has more to offer for you to explore. The area is home to historic neighborhoods, scenic parks, and great dining spots that can make your stay extra special. The cool climate of the area during the festival also adds magic to your entire experience.
So go ahead and make your plans to attend the December Nights and Holiday Lights. A wonderful and unforgettable experience is waiting for you.
FAQ
- Is parking available at the festival?
- Yes, free on-site parking is available at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, so you don’t need to worry about finding street parking or paying extra fees.
- Are pets allowed at the event?
- Pets are not permitted during the festival to help protect the gardens and keep walkways comfortable for everyone.
- Is smoking allowed inside the festival grounds?
- Smoking is not allowed within the gardens during the event. This helps maintain a clean, safe, and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
- Can I take photos during the festival?
- Photography is welcome, and you’re free to capture the light displays along the route. Just be mindful of other visitors and stay on designated paths.
- Is food available on site?
- Yes, you’ll find light food options and seasonal treats available during the event. Warm drinks and simple snacks are perfect for a cool evening stroll.
- Is the festival accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
- Most pathways are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, making the event accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
- Are restrooms available during the festival?
- Restrooms are located near the entrance and within the garden area, making them easy to access throughout your visit.
- Is December Nights & Holiday Lights family-friendly?
- Absolutely. The festival is designed for all ages and offers a relaxed setting that families can enjoy together.
