We Can’t Wait for the Botanic Garden of Lights!

Any time of year is a great time to visit Tulsa Botanic Garden. That being said, the holiday season is my favorite. In the past several years, Tulsa Botanic Garden has become one of our family’s must-go places in December, and we are counting down the days until their annual Botanic Garden of Lights! 

Experiencing the gardens draped in colorful lights will get you in the holiday spirit. In the past there has been holiday music, a small train for children to ride, plenty of photo opportunities, fire pits to make s’mores, and a Santa with the best suit you’ve ever seen. My kids are excited to see what it will be like this year. Wandering through pathways of lights is fun, and seeing them reflect off the pond is lovely. 

Though Tulsa weather can vary in December, it has always been quite cold during nights we’ve gone, so I encourage people to layer clothing – but know that you’ll have fun no matter what! Hot drinks and food help take one’s mind off winter weather as well. You can also warm up inside of Tulsa Botanic Garden’s Mabee Grange facility. Walking around or trying to keep up with children zooming around keeps the blood pumping as well. 

We love the Tulsa Botanic Garden because there is something unique to admire all year-round. Our son particularly has an interest in horticulture and loves reading and learning all he can about what’s blooming in the garden. There is always something to admire – even during the winter. Winter in the garden has encouraged us to learn more about the evergreen trees and shrubs that lend their rich green color during months when hues of grey and brown take over. 

Outside of the Botanic Garden of Lights event, Tulsa Botanic Garden is fantastic for all ages because it is somewhere to watch nature take shape year-round. It is shocking how different the Garden looks at different points of the year. Kids can learn so much about ecosystems and the environment by visiting during each season. There are flat paths that are easy for toddlers and a stunning Children’s Discovery Garden. I’ll save that for another post!

Good-to-know about Botanic Garden of Lights:

• The first night of Botanic Garden of Lights this year is November 24.
• You have to buy advance, timed-entry tickets even if you are already a member. Learn more here. Plan in ahead because some nights sell out!
• Family crafts are scheduled each Thursday night from 5-8 p.m.
• Santa and his sleigh will visit every Friday and Saturday, 5-8 p.m., November 24 – December  9 and nightly, December 15-23.
• Live jazz music is scheduled from 6-8 p.m. on Sunday November 26, December 3, 10, and 17.