Smart travelers know that the best excuse to see beautiful Midcoast Maine during the holiday season is to attend Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Harbor! This charming seaside town features plenty of memorable holiday events, but Gardens Aglow is one of our favorites. Here are three amazing facts about this unique festival.
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3 Amazing Facts About Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Harbor
1. It Is Held at an Award-Winning Public Garden
Gardens Aglow 2017 will take place at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens from November 17 to December 31. Throughout the rest of the year, this venue offers a breathtaking display of Maine’s native flora and fauna. As the number one attraction in Boothbay Harbor and the best Maine gardens to visit, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are truly a special sight. We recommend visiting in the daytime to view the stunning plant displays, then coming back between 4 and 9 p.m. to experience the biggest and brightest arrangement of Christmas lights in the state of Maine!
2. Over 500,000 Christmas Lights Are Used
The founders of Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Harbor wanted to create a holiday experience unlike any other, and plenty of research went into implementing the largest LED light display in Maine. They interviewed other botanical gardens, conducted surveys, and crunched numbers. The results gave the leadership team confidence that the area would benefit from a winter attraction of this magnitude. More than 36,000 people attended the very first Gardens Aglow in 2015. Since then, the event has become a new and beloved holiday tradition for countless individuals, couples, and families alike!
3. It Is Part of a Larger Festival
Though an exciting attraction all its own, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens Aglow is a small part of the Boothbay Festival of Lights. This festival consists of a seasonal lineup of happenings including performances, parades, and special discounts around town. For example, in the Dough Ball and Gingerbread Spectacular, professional and grade-school bakers come together to compete for awards like “Most Ingredients Used” and “Best Holiday Spirit.” This year, their creations are shown starting December 15 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. During the Boothbay Festival of Lights, visitors can also attend a Harbor Lights boat parade and the Festival of Trees, a silent auction.
Stay Just 5 Minutes Away From Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor’s Gardens Aglow is much more than meets the eye. It is an indispensable part of Midcoast Maine’s holiday vibrance and a special tradition. When planning a visit this winter, be sure to find lodging near the event. Though Newagen Seaside Inn closes for the season on October 15, The Russell House Bed & Breakfast, our sister property, is a beautiful and historic place to stay in Downtown Boothbay Harbor. At The Russell House, chic guest rooms and premium hotel amenities combine to create an unforgettable holiday experience. The best part? It’s just five minutes away from the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens!
Before booking a winter getaway, be sure to take advantage of The Russell House’s Gardens Aglow Package. You’ll receive 2 tickets for the event, lodging, and a hot breakfast each morning of your stay!