December 4-22, 2026 (select nights)
GET TICKETS HERE
Make the season shine at Holiday Lights in the Garden, presented by Cape Fear Valley Health System!
A beloved Fayetteville tradition since 2011, Holiday Lights transforms Cape Fear Botanical Garden into an enchanting, walk-through winter wonderland filled with thousands of twinkling lights, dazzling displays, festive music, and holiday magic around every corner.
Stroll beneath the lights and make memories with family and friends as you:
- Meet Santa and The Grinch for photos, festive fun, and a little holiday mischief.
- Experience interactive light displays and animations that bring the Garden to life.
- Capture the perfect family photo at festive holiday photo spots throughout the Garden.
- Enjoy the sounds of holiday music as you stroll through the lights.
- Indulge in seasonal food and drinks and browse the Vendor Market for unique gifts and holiday finds.
Whether Holiday Lights is a treasured family tradition or your very first visit, there’s no better place to celebrate the wonder of the season.
🐶 DOG NIGHT: December 10 – Leashed dogs may accompany their owners on this night only. 🐶
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🎄 NEW! Holiday Lights Theme Nights
Come dressed for the occasion!
We’re adding a little extra fun to five special nights of Holiday Lights! Dress for the theme, snap some photos, and enter our Theme Night Photo Contests for a chance to win prizes from Cape Fear Botanical Garden!
- December 4 | Favorite Christmas Movie Night 🎬
Bring your favorite holiday movie to life! Dress as a beloved character or create a look inspired by your favorite Christmas film. - December 6 | Ugly Christmas Sweater Night 🎄
The tackier, the merrier! Break out your most outrageous, over-the-top Christmas sweater. - December 10 | Dog Night 🐾
Bring your four-legged best friend and coordinate your holiday looks! Matching outfits, complementary costumes, or a shared holiday theme. Get creative! Leashed dogs may accompany their owners on this night only. - December 11 | Santa vs. Grinch Night 🎅
Are you Team Santa or Team Grinch? Show us which side you’re on with your festive attire! - December 17 | Pajama Night ❄️
Cozy up in your favorite holiday pajamas for a festive night under the lights!
📸 Five Nights. Five Photo Contests. Five Chances to Win!
Each theme night will have its own photo contest, with winners selected through public voting. Prizes will be awarded for each theme night. Watch our social media channels for contest entry and voting details!
Dressing up is optional, of course. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the magic of Holiday Lights!
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Choose the Ticket That Works for You
Ticket prices vary by date and entry time, giving you options to choose the experience that best fits your schedule and budget. Please review the available dates, times, and prices carefully when purchasing.
Your timed entry helps us manage parking and arrival times for a smoother start to your evening. Once you enter the Garden, you’re welcome to stay and enjoy the magic as long as you’d like during event hours.
Plan Ahead — Popular Nights Sell Out!
Advance tickets are the only way to guarantee admission. Walk-up tickets may be available only if the event has not sold out and will be offered at a higher price.
Don’t wait for the magic—choose your night and secure your tickets today!
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
MUST BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE — DATES AND TIMES WILL SELL OUT!
GET TICKETS HERE
Don’t miss out on the magic—secure your tickets now!
Thank you to our Holiday Lights Sponsors!
* Cape Fear Valley Health
* T-Fiber
* Kids First Pediatrics of Raeford & Fayetteville
* LaFayette Ford
* Caviness & Cates
* Arts Council of Fayetteville Cumberland County
