This holiday season in Northern California, Redding Garden of Lights festival transforms Turtle Bay Exploration Park into a shimmering wonderland of more than 2 million twinkling lights. Now in its fifth year, this nationally acclaimed event is a magical experience for families, couples, and anyone who loves the magic of the holidays. Running now through January 5, 2025, it’s a must-visit destination for creating unforgettable memories.
Redding Garden of Lights
A Magical Journey Begins
The adventure starts with a walk across the iconic Sundial Bridge, where the glow of holiday lights reflects off the Sacramento River, setting the stage for what’s to come. Once inside the McConnell Botanical Gardens, visitors can follow winding paths through ten acres of dazzling displays, each more enchanting than the last. New for this year is the Enchanted Forest, a stunning addition to a lineup of beloved features that include Peppermint Portal, Candy Cane Lane, Polar Palace, and Light Tunnels. Families will delight in the Magical Mosaic Children’s Garden, where tiny playhouses, lighted windows, and radiant meteor lights create an enchanting playground for little ones.
For those seeking an interactive experience, the Glowing Swings area offers more than 30 neon-lit swings, and the Model Train Town showcases intricate displays of Shasta County landmarks amid sparkling lights. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand through romantic scenes or steal a kiss at the Proposal Pavilion, while the whimsical wildlife installations in the Australian Garden bring a touch of fantasy to the evening.
Elevated Experiences
For an extra-special celebration, the festival offers Private Igloo Experiences, accommodating up to six guests. These VIP packages include food, drinks, souvenirs, and exclusive treats, making it the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a luxurious evening. This year also introduces a private event space with a patio featuring heaters and firepits. With room for up to 150 guests, it’s an ideal venue for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even a winter wedding. Guests can savor custom catering and craft cocktails from Mosaic Restaurant, located at the Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge.
Festive Food and Photo Ops
The festival isn’t just about the lights—it’s a feast for the senses. Guests can warm up with hot chocolate, spiked apple cider, and seasonal cocktails, or enjoy fresh kettle corn from food huts sprinkled throughout the gardens. The carefully curated displays, like the 40-foot cylindrical light columns of Candy Cane Lane or the immersive 200-foot Light Tunnels, also provide plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
No one can resist a light tunnel!
Ring in the New Year
For families, the “Almost Midnight” New Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31 (6–10 pm) offers an early countdown with all the magic of the lights. This family-friendly event ensures that even the youngest attendees can join in the holiday festivities.
Travelers can extend the magic with the Garden of Lights package at the Sheraton Redding Hotel at Sundial Bridge. This exclusive overnight offering includes deluxe accommodations and two adult tickets to the festival, making it the perfect getaway for a festive weekend.
Plan Your Visit
Dates: Through January 5, 2025.
Hours: Open Wednesdays through Sundays.
Tickets: $32 for adults; $20 for children (ages 4–15), veterans, and seniors; free for children under 3.
Purchase tickets at Redding Garden of Lights.
Whether you’re looking to make new holiday traditions or relive the magic of the season, the Redding Garden of Lights festival is the perfect place to celebrate. From the glowing paths of the Light Tunnels to the cozy warmth of a private patio firepit, every moment is designed to enchant visitors of all ages. Plan your visit today and experience one of the country’s most breathtaking holiday festivals—where art, nature, and light come together to create pure magic.
