In 2012, National Geographic Traveler named Callaway Gardens’ “Fantasy in Lights” as one of the world’s ‘Top 10 Places to see Holiday Lights’. And having seen it, I now know why. Fantasy in lights is one of the many signature events that Callaway Gardens holds throughout the year. This particular event though, is during Christmas and new year.
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| Firefly cove |
This is a magical place to be in during Christmas. An entire botanical garden spanning hundreds of acres is transformed into what can best be described as a larger than life, fantastical display of lights. You will be taken into spectacular sets of Santa’s workshop, Magical Christmas gardens, March of the toy soldiers, twin tress, snowflake valley and many such wondrous displays of light. The garden comes alive with an undescribable splendor and gives one a very warm, intimate feeling of joy as one passes from one scene into another. One can also see that it is a great hit with adults as with children. One would find adults matching the kids in howls and screams of joy. It teams with Christmas spirit when everyone in the trolley sing along the carols in one voice and one cant help but feel compelled to join in. As the show comes to an end, one is reassured that all is, in actual fact, well indeed!!
Here are some fun facts about the place.
- Callaway Gardens was started by one Mrs. Virginia Hand Callaway. She was inspired by the Christmas memories of her childhood and eventually her vision came to light in 1992. Very literally.
- The scenes were designed by professionals who once worked for Disney’s Electrical Parade department.
- One evening in fantasy of lights include 8 Million lights drawn in 32 miles of electrical cable and over 1000 switches go on & off! How is that for numbers??!!
For the magnitude and scale of this show, it delivers a very personal, almost intimate experience to one. For many, visiting Callaway Gardens on Christmas has become a family tradition. Travelendura definitely recommends this to br part of your family holiday trip list.
Note: Apologies. The photos might seem a tad fuzzy. This is because it was almost impossible to get a clear shot on a very bumpy ride in a continuously moving trolley on an exceptionally cold evening.
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| Scene from the Nativity |
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| Christmas Gardens |
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| Santa's Workshop |
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| Santa's Workshop |
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| Santa's Workshop |
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| Snowflake Valley |
