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Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
- Chloe Ketterer
- November 19, 2025
- 12:28 pm
When the holiday season arrives in Pawleys Island and Murrells Inlet, few traditions are as enchanting as Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens. This beloved annual event transforms the sculpture garden into a glowing landscape illuminated by more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights. Visitors stroll through beautifully lit pathways surrounded by historic live oak trees, moss-draped branches, and elegant sculptures that appear even more breathtaking under the warm radiance of candlelight.
What to Expect at the Event
As guests enter the gardens, beginning at 4:00 p.m., they are welcomed by live holiday music, displays of candlelit fountains and floral arrangements, and the scent of the season drifting through the air. One of the most anticipated moments each evening is the lighting of the Holiday Tree in the Arboretum, which takes place around 6:00 p.m. The towering tree becomes the centerpiece of the event, drawing visitors in for photos and quiet moments of awe.
Throughout the night, guests can enjoy delicious Lowcountry-inspired cuisine served by Campbell Catering in the Leonard Pavilion, along with popular food truck vendors offering seasonal favorites. Beverage stations are strategically placed throughout the garden, offering options such as cocoa, cider, wine, and other warm or festive drinks. Every turn along the pathways reveals new displays of light, each thoughtfully arranged to highlight the garden’s natural beauty and extensive sculpture collection.
Dates and Ticket Details
Nights of a Thousand Candles takes place on select evenings from November 28 through January 4. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are non-refundable. Pricing for the 2025 season is set at $ 35 for adult members and $ 15 for children ages 4 through 12. Non-members are priced at $ 40 for adults and $ 20 for children.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
Arriving early is recommended so guests can enjoy the full experience without rushing and secure a good viewing spot for the tree lighting. Evenings can be cool, so dressing warmly will help you stay comfortable as you explore the outdoor displays. Parking is free, and accessible parking is available in the main lot. Some areas of the gardens, including the Lowcountry Trail and the zoo, are closed during this event, allowing visitors to focus on the candlelit areas. Guests who require mobility devices should bring their own because Brookgreen Gardens does not offer rentals for this event. In the event of severe weather, updates may be posted; however, tickets are valid rain or shine, unless dangerous conditions necessitate closure.
Enhance the Night With the Sparkle and Fun Package
Guests can elevate their experience by adding the Sparkle and Fun Package to their tickets. This optional add-on includes a glass of wine or cider along with a pair of holographic glasses that transform every point of light into dazzling starbursts and rainbows. It is a popular upgrade that adds a playful and memorable twist to the evening.
Why Nights of a Thousand Candles Is So Special
Brookgreen Gardens is a National Historic Landmark, and during this event, its beauty is showcased in an extraordinary manner, even by local standards. The illuminated live oaks and art pieces create a serene atmosphere that draws visitors from around the country. The 80-foot Holiday Tree stands as a glowing symbol of the season and is one of the most photographed features in the park. Proceeds from ticket sales help support Brookgreen’s mission to preserve its gardens, sculpture collection, and educational programs, which are dedicated to the cultural and natural heritage of the Lowcountry.
Plan Your Stay at Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort
Nights of a Thousand Candles is the perfect way to experience the charm of the Grand Strand during the holiday season. To make your visit even more enjoyable, consider staying at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort. Located just minutes from Brookgreen Gardens, the resort offers comfortable accommodations, beautiful surroundings, and easy access to all the seasonal festivities. It is the ideal home base for a magical holiday getaway.
