I can’t believe it is that time of year, already!  And, Christmas just happens to be one of my favorite holidays!  It feels like just yesterday I was planting vegetables in the garden, and enjoying the new garden renovations at Windward House.  Oh, how time does fly!

In our efforts to continue to explore our beautiful state of Maine, we were looking for something fun and Christmassy to do, during this festive time of year.  At almost the exact same moment, we both looked at each other and said, “Gardens Aglow!”  It has been on our list of things to do since we moved here, so we figured, why not?  We hopped in the car and drove the 50 minute ride from Windward House to Boothbay Harbor.  Gardens Aglow is one of many reasons to visit Maine’s Coastal Botanical Gardens.  It was amazing!

We bought our tickets online and picked from one of the three timeslots.  The choices were 4:00, 6:00 or 8:00pm.  We chose the 4:00 ticket so we could make an evening of it and grab dinner afterwards.  Getting onto the property and parking was a breeze. With each twinkling light we saw around Boothbay, our anticipation continued to grow until we entered this magical realm of lights, lights, lights…everywhere!

Details aren’t necessary because words will never do justice to what your eyes will see. It’s something that you need to see and experience for yourself.  Let’s just say it will throw you right into the festive spirit of the holidays.  Even a grinch would be inspired there. The night we went the temperature was perfect (mid-30’s) and snow was on the ground which made the illumination even more magical.  Make sure you dress accordingly, so you can wander and wonder for as long as you would like, regardless of the elements.  Hot chocolate refreshments are available for purchase and make sure you visit the gift shop on your way out!  Educational and quirky, fun, whimsical gift ideas will help you fill your stockings and complete your holiday shopping.

So, do you think I should go?  Absolutely, it is something you must see for yourself! Garden’s Aglow runs from mid-November until December 31.  https://www.mainegardens.org/calendar-events/gardens-aglow/ 

Time is running out for this year, but there is still some time left to make it happen.  For the 2020 season we will be offering an exciting Garden’s Aglow package so you can visit from near or far, or anywhere in between. It is a scenic drive and you can stop off at the famous Moody’s Diner on the way home to grab some good ole fashioned comfort food and dessert.  Moody’s not your thing?  Camden has over 20 fantastic restaurants, ranging from sushi and small plates to casual and formal dining, all within walking distance to Windward House.  After, enjoy cocktails at a local bar or select beverages from Windward’s Libation center to enjoy while soaking in the old fashioned claw foot tub, or by your own private fireplace.

If I haven’t convinced you by now, then here is a short video of pictures of what we experienced.  I guarantee by the end of the video you’ll want to experience it too!

(By the way…I am in no way promoting Garden’s Aglow for monetary reasons.  I am not receiving any money because of my blog post.  I was just really impressed by this magical light show and wanted to share with our blog followers.  I know you won’t be disappointed! It is worth seeing!)