The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens has been transformed into a dazzling holiday wonderland with twinkling lights, lighted lanterns and snowy trees thanks to Dazzling Nights, which runs now until January 1, 2023.

Get Your Dazzle On

This was our first visit to the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, and I have to say, I want to go back! It’s such a beautiful location! And all the plants around the area have little signs telling what they are, which I LOVE, because I always want to know the names of plants. We got there just before dark, since we were there to see lights, but I got to see a little bit before that, and I am really looking forward to going back and exploring. But you want to know about the lights, right?!? 🙂

The whole place is decorated and lit up for Christmas! We checked in and started our dazzling journey at the beer/wine truck by following the handy directional sign at the beginning. This is also where you can get your light-up accessories. I’m happy to say the kid’s light wands are priced at an affordable $10. (not like those $25 light-up toys at Disney)

We then entered a beautiful tree canopy filled with gorgeous lanterns. My husband I started discussing where we might get these lanterns and put them in our trees, because they were just so pretty.

After the lanterns, you enter a bright star tunnel, where everyone has to stop to take photos! It really is a good picture spot.

Once you emerge from the stars, you get to the kid’s bouncy house area, which my son absolutely loved and did not want to leave. It’s a big one with a slide and a big yeti you can jump and climb on.

Snow in Florida

Next up is the area where snow is blowing and coating the trees like a winter wonderland. There’s also a big light maze and lighted pathways where the lights and lasers are paired with the Christmas music.

We made our way around to the big stage area, which was all lit up, but nothing was going on there yet. That’s also where the food truck is with kid-friendly light bites like chicken fingers and hot dogs.

We all thought it was well done and enjoyed our night at Dazzling Lights Jacksonville!

Dazzling Nights

Click here to visit the website and get tickets!

TICKETS : Tickets must be purchased for a specific time and date, and are not available at the door. $25 per adult, $22 per child (plus fees). Children 2 and under enter free.

Event Dates & Times
Through January 1st, 2023
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm (Closed Christmas December 25th, 2022)

Dazzling Nights at Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens will transform into a stunning winter wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays, music and beautiful sculptures! You’ll experience:

• Start with a great photo opportunity in front of a unique, 30’ tall towering Christmas tree.
• Walk under a canopy of flickering Moroccan lanterns.
• A live show featuring moving lights and live singers.
• A giant, inflatable play area that lets you slide down chimney chute just like Santa.
• A 8,000 square foot lighted maze.
• Walk through a tunnel of giant stars.
• Festive food and beverages.
• And the evening wouldn’t be complete without snow and holiday tunes.