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Brookgreen Gardens' Nights of a Thousand Candles 2018: A Magical Holiday Tradition

Brookgreen Gardens Nights of a Thousand Candles 2018: A Magical Holiday Tradition

The holiday season on South Carolina's Grand Strand shines brightest with Brookgreen Gardens' Nights of a Thousand Candles. For three enchanting weekends in December 2018, the renowned sculpture gardens come alive after dusk, illuminated by over 4,500 hand-lit candles and thousands of sparkling lights.

Visitors can stroll the illuminated paths from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., sipping hot chocolate while enjoying live holiday entertainment, caroling, and a nightly Christmas tree lighting ceremony—a highlight for many attendees. On opening night, Thursday, December 6, Brookgreen Gardens honors 100 veterans from the Wounded Warrior Project, who light the spectacular tree.

Beyond the gardens, a large tent offers catered dinners from Inlet Affairs in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Popular choices include Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits or the Creek Shrimp Platter.

It's no wonder this event earned the Charles A. Bundy Award for Excellence in Tourism from the South Carolina Parks and Recreation Department and was named the "Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina" by Travel+Leisure magazine. It's an unmissable holiday experience.

Plan ahead: Tickets must be purchased in advance as space is limited and non-refundable. Exchanges are available by calling (888) 718-4253 before 3 p.m. the day prior, subject to availability. Member prices: $20/adult, $12/child; non-members: $25/adult, $15/child. Buy online or call (888) 718-4253. Budget extra for dinner, snacks, or hot chocolate. Arrive before sundown to avoid traffic backups.

For a closer look, watch our video from a previous Nights of a Thousand Candles event.

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