November 13, 2026–January 3, 2027
Winter Lights, Asheville's brightest holiday tradition, returns to The North Carolina Arboretum with "Nature Revered." This year's show features more than one million lights, with all-new displays alongside longtime favorites. More than 100,000 guests visit Winter Lights each year. Visit their website to purchase tickets. Read on to learn all about what makes this year's Winter Lights a don't miss holiday attraction.
What's New in 2026
Step into the "Forest Floor," where glowing mushrooms cover the ground. Walk beneath giant lily pads in "Beneath the Riverbed," and wander among oversized dragonflies in "Between Water and Woods."
Returning Favorites
The 50-foot Tree of Light is back, along with the Rocky Cove Railroad with its "Polar Express" theme.
50-foot Tree of Light
The Quilt Garden lights up in time with holiday music. Warm up with hot cocoa and other drinks, then shop for holiday gifts in the expanded Connections Gallery Gift Shop.
Quilted Garden
Ride the Winter
Lights Trolley Make an evening of it and skip the line. On select nights, the Winter Lights Trolley carries guests from Biltmore Park Town Square straight to the show. It's presented by Biltmore Park Town Square and Gray Line Trolley Tours.
Tickets & Hours
- Tickets are on sale now at their website.
- One ticket covers a whole vehicle, so bring friends and family.
- Prices follow three tiers based on demand. Buy early and pick a lower-demand night for the best value.
- Many nights sell out, so buying in advance is strongly recommended.
- You must reserve your date and time slot when you buy.
- Members of The North Carolina Arboretum Society get a $5 discount on advance tickets only.
- Commercial vans and motor coaches pay a higher price than personal vehicles in all tiers.
- Winter Lights is open nightly from 6 to 10 PM.
Street Address: 20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way
Nearby
See more Holiday Outings in Asheville, including Christmas at Biltmore. Also, find more places for light displays.
Go to our North Carolina Arboretum Guide for daytime visits year-round.
