Bellingrath Gardens

Magic Christmas in Lights Workshop
2025-11-18 17:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
Did you know that Bellingrath’s famous Magic Christmas in Lights is designed and crafted right here in Alabama? All set pieces and scenes are hand-made and installed by Bellingrath’s staff to design this award-winning display that creates a holiday tradition unlike any other. Get behind the scenes of the 2025 season with our talented team and learn how to create a Christmas set piece for your home. Guests will select a metal frame created by our team and then learn how to attach lights to decorate the piece. All materials will be supplied and are included in the cost of the program. Space is limited and reservations are required in advance.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to design a festive set piece that’s perfect for gifting or adding holiday splendor to your home.

Date: November 18th
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

30th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights
2025-11-21 - 2026-01-10
MAGIC CHRISTMAS IN LIGHTS
DATE: Nov. 21 – Jan. 10, 2026 | Closed Nov. 26, Nov. 27, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1
TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now.

Experience the Magic
Explore the enchanting 30th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home — a festive paradise on the Gulf Coast! Wander through a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. The Bellingrath Home adds to the holiday ambiance with elegant décor and vibrant poinsettias.
Discover the magic of Alabama as our talented staff handcrafts each light display with care and creativity. Immerse yourself in the season’s sounds with live choral performances throughout the Gardens.
Savor the festive spirit with holiday treats and warm beverages — from seasonal delights to timeless favorites, there’s something for everyone. Create lasting memories with family and friends against the radiant backdrop of our displays.Bellingrath Gardens & Home’s Magic Christmas in Lights is a cherished tradition that brings people together in the true spirit of the season.

Daytime Admission
Admissions open: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PMLast daytime Home tour: 2:00 PMGardens close at: 4:00 PM

Magic Christmas in Lights Evening Experience
Event hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PMLast Home tour tickets sold at: 7:30 PMLast Home tour: 8:00 PMLast Gardens ticket sold: 9:00 PMGardens close at: 10:00 PM
Please note: Guests will be charged special event pricing during Magic Christmas in Lights hours.

Member Information
During Magic Christmas in Lights, from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM, members are admitted free of charge.After 3:00 PM, members must purchase Magic Christmas in Lights tickets at the member discount rate.

Ticket Information
Save time by purchasing tickets online.QR codes are available in front of the Admissions Building. Day tickets and night tickets are sold separately and cannot be combined.
Need flexibility? When purchasing your tickets online, you may select a date and upgrade to a Flex Ticket, which allows you to visit any night of the Magic Christmas in Lights season if your plans change.
Tickets are non-refundable
Complimentary passes cannot be transferred to MCIL.
Know Before You Go

Please note that timed tickets are not required at this time. As long as tickets are purchased for the correct date, you may enter the Gardens at any time during open hours.
Parking is complimentary. Please allow extra time to park and enter at your designated time.
Wheelchairs, scooters, and wagons are available for rental on a first-come, first-served basis
Hot cocoa and snacks available for purchase on Live Oak Plaza; hot evening meals available in the Magnolia Café nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. Click here for menu.
Bars offering beer and wine are available for purchase in the Magnolia Café and on Live Oak Plaza, as well as Irish coffee at the midpoint of the walking tour.
Gift Shop is open until 10:00 p.m. Members receive a 10% discount upon presentation of a valid Membership card at checkout.

Click here for Santa photo pricing.

Click here to see the group/choir performance schedule.

Click here for the Magic Christmas in Lights Map.

Magic Christmas in Lights 2026 is proudly sponsored by

Garden Walk & Talk
2025-11-26 10:30 - 11:30
Experience the beauty of Bellingrath Gardens in every season during our Garden Walk & Talk, held on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This engaging monthly garden tour is led by our knowledgeable horticulture experts, who share insights into what’s blooming, garden care tips, and behind-the-scenes details about our historic landscape.
Garden Walk & Talk is open to the public – the tour is included with regular Gardens admission, and it’s free for Bellingrath members. No advance registration required.
Join us each month to connect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the Gardens!

Date: November 26, 2025
Time: 10:30- 11:30 PM
Purchase Tickets

Members' Morning Coffee
2025-11-29 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for a peaceful start to the day at our Members’ Morning Coffee. This special gathering is a chance for members to enjoy complimentary coffee, light refreshments, and friendly conversation while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens. Take time to unwind, connect with fellow members, and experience the charm of Bellingrath in the morning hours.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit

Date: November 29th
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Purchase Tickets

Poinsettia Wine Bottle Workshop
2025-12-03 10:00 - 11:30
Bring your own wine bottle and paint a beautiful poinsettia design in this festive holiday workshop! Our instructors will guide you step by step as you create a charming hand-painted decoration, perfect for adding holiday cheer to your home or gifting to someone special. No painting experience necessary—just bring your creativity and holiday spirit!
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to create a hand-painted holiday keepsake that’s as festive as it is unique.

Date: December 3rd
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

STEM & Stories with Mrs. Claus
2025-12-06 09:00 - 11:00
Join us for a special holiday storytime as Mrs. Claus visits Bellingrath Gardens & Home to share Humphrey’s First Christmas, a heartwarming tale that highlights the importance of Christmas and the true meaning of gift-giving. After storytime, Santa’s helpers will guide children through festive hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Activities are best suited for ages 5–10. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended, as space is limited.
Member: Free | Non-member: General Admission
Plan Your Visit
Celebrate the season with this family-friendly program that combines holiday cheer with fun learning opportunities for children.

Date: December 6th
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Floral Wine Topper Workshop
2025-12-10 10:30 - 11:30
Create a festive floral wine topper bouquet—bottle included—in this hands-on holiday workshop! Designed to dress up your favorite bottle of wine, these charming arrangements make the perfect seasonal centerpiece, gift, or addition to your holiday décor. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity and enjoy a fun, festive morning of floral design.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to design a festive floral wine topper that’s perfect for gifting or adding holiday charm to your own celebrations.

Date: December 10th
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Todd Talks With Executive Director, Dr. Todd Lasseigne
2025-12-17 10:30 - 11:30
Go behind the scenes of one of the Gulf Coast’s most cherished holiday traditions with Executive Director Dr. Todd Lasseigne. In this special Todd Talk, Todd will share how Magic Christmas in Lights has grown from a bold idea into the dazzling spectacle that now delights thousands of visitors each year. Learn about the planning, creativity, and teamwork that go into designing the displays, and enjoy a sneak peek at exciting new additions and future plans for this beloved celebration of light and wonder. It’s a heartwarming glimpse into the magic that makes the season shine at Bellingrath.
This presentation is perfect for anyone with a love for nature and a curiosity about the botanical world. Dr. Lasseigne’s passion and expertise will inspire you and deepen your appreciation for the natural splendors of Bellingrath Gardens.
Free for members | Included with regular Gardens admission for non-members.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about what it takes to bring Magic Christmas in Lights to life each year.

Date: December 17th
Time: 10:30 PM – 11:30 AM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Members' Morning Coffee
2025-12-27 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for a peaceful start to the day at our Members’ Morning Coffee. This special gathering is a chance for members to enjoy complimentary coffee, light refreshments, and friendly conversation while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens. Take time to unwind, connect with fellow members, and experience the charm of Bellingrath in the morning hours.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit

Date: December 27th
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Purchase Tickets

Start Your Veggie Garden
2026-01-10 09:00 - 10:30
Learn the essentials of seed starting with Melissa Wells in this hands-on gardening class! Melissa will guide you step-by-step through how to start, grow, and transplant healthy seedlings for your upcoming vegetable garden. Each participant will receive a seed-starting tray, a seed catalog, and a selection of seeds to take home and begin growing right away. Space is limited and reservations are required in advance.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to jump-start your garden with expert tips and take-home seed-starting supplies.

Date: January 10th
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Member: $20 | Non-member: $30 | Gardens Admission included
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

The Perfect Ship with Tom McGehee
2026-01-14 10:30 - 11:30
Discover the fascinating history of the SS United States as Home Museum Director Tom McGehee brings this legendary ocean liner to life. Through his engaging storytelling, you’ll uncover the ship’s remarkable past, record-breaking voyages, and lasting legacy.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Tom McGehee unveil the captivating story of the SS United States and its unforgettable place in maritime history.

Date: January 14th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

NatureNauts Academy: Nature’s Little Explorers (Habitats)
2026-01-19 10:00 - 12:00
Ignite Curiosity with Hands-On Science Adventures
Are you looking for an engaging and educational program for your K-8 student? Look no further than NatureNauts Academy at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Our monthly nature science workshops are designed to inspire and educate young minds through interactive STEM challenges and hands-on activities. Join us to discover the creatures that live at or near Bellingrath at our 2-hour workshop designed exclusively for all K-8 students.
Why Attend?

Monthly STEM Challenges: Each month, your child will explore a new nature science topic, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love for learning.
Inclusive for All K-8 Students: Whether your child is homeschooled, or attends private or public school, they are welcome to join our exciting educational adventures.
Led by Certified Educators: Our expert educators create immersive 2-hour sessions filled with fun, interactive learning experiences.

Registration & Fees:

Members: Free
Non-Member: General Admission

Deadline: Ensure your participation by registering one week before the event.
TICKETS
For any questions, reach out to Felicia Henderson at fhenderson@bellingrath.org. Your educational journey is important to us!
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to our sponsors, including the State of Alabama Legislature, The Daniel Foundation of Alabama, BAE Systems, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Alabama, for their unwavering support of the Cultivate program.

Bridging Cultures through Camellias: Bellingrath Goes to Japan
2026-01-22 10:00 - 11:15
Join us for a special presentation highlighting Bellingrath Gardens & Home’s recent international engagement at the 2025 International Camellia Congress in Japan. Led by Sarah Brecher, who represented Bellingrath at the conference, this program explores how a shared love of camellias unites gardens, cultures, and communities around the world. Learn about Japanese horticultural traditions, the global significance of camellias, and how Bellingrath continues to strengthen its legacy on the international stage. The experience includes a 30-minute presentation in the Magnolia Room followed by a guided tour through the Gardens.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the global story behind one of Bellingrath’s most cherished plants.

Date: January 22nd
Time: 10:00 – 11:15 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

NatureNauts Academy: Nature’s Little Explorers (Habitats)
2026-01-27 13:00 - 15:00
Ignite Curiosity with Hands-On Science Adventures
Are you looking for an engaging and educational program for your K-8 student? Look no further than NatureNauts Academy at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Our monthly nature science workshops are designed to inspire and educate young minds through interactive STEM challenges and hands-on activities. Join us to discover the creatures that live at or near Bellingrath at our 2-hour workshop designed exclusively for all K-8 students.
Why Attend?

Monthly STEM Challenges: Each month, your child will explore a new nature science topic, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love for learning.
Inclusive for All K-8 Students: Whether your child is homeschooled, or attends private or public school, they are welcome to join our exciting educational adventures.
Led by Certified Educators: Our expert educators create immersive 2-hour sessions filled with fun, interactive learning experiences.

Registration & Fees:

Members: Free
Non-Member: General Admission

Deadline: Ensure your participation by registering one week before the event.
TICKETS
For any questions, reach out to Felicia Henderson at fhenderson@bellingrath.org.

Plant Exploration with a Purpose | Postponed
2026-01-28 10:30 - 11:30
Travel the world through plants with Scott McMahan of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. As Manager of the International Plant Exploration Program, Scott brings firsthand insight from decades of global plant discovery, sharing stories from expeditions across Asia, the Americas, and beyond.
In this engaging lecture, Scott explores how plants are discovered, collected, and shared among botanical institutions worldwide, and how international collaboration helps shape the gardens we enjoy today. Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the role plant exploration plays in conservation, horticulture, and the ever-evolving beauty of public gardens.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore global plant discovery and gain firsthand insight into the work shaping botanical gardens around the world.

Date: January 28th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Members' Morning Coffee
2026-01-31 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for a peaceful start to the day at our Members’ Morning Coffee. This special gathering is a chance for members to enjoy complimentary coffee, light refreshments, and friendly conversation while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens. Take time to unwind, connect with fellow members, and experience the charm of Bellingrath in the morning hours.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit

Date: January 31st
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Purchase Tickets

Preparing the Garden for Spring
2026-02-04 10:30 - 11:30
Learn how to get your garden in peak shape for the upcoming season with practical, expert advice from Jack LeCroy of the Alabama Cooperative Extension. From preparation techniques to smart seasonal strategies, Jack will share straightforward tips to help your garden thrive.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your gardening skills with trusted guidance.

Date: February 4th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

NatureNauts Academy: Birds: Flap, Glide, Soar!
2026-02-13 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-02-27 13:00 - 15:00
Ignite Curiosity with Hands-On Science Adventures
Are you looking for an engaging and educational program for your K-8 student? Look no further than NatureNauts Academy at Bellingrath Gardens & Home! Our monthly nature science workshops are designed to inspire and educate young minds through interactive STEM challenges and hands-on activities. Join us to learn all about birds at our 2-hour workshop designed exclusively for all K-8 students!
Why Attend?

Monthly STEM Challenges: Each month, your child will explore a new nature science topic, sparking their curiosity and fostering a love for learning.
Inclusive for All K-8 Students: Whether your child is homeschooled, or attends private or public school, they are welcome to join our exciting educational adventures.
Led by Certified Educators: Our expert educators create immersive 2-hour sessions filled with fun, interactive learning experiences.

Registration & Fees:

Members: Free
Non-Member: General Admission

Deadline: Ensure your participation by registering one week before the event.
TICKETS
For any questions, reach out to Felicia Henderson at fhenderson@bellingrath.org.

Belle Camp Fish Fry | Canceled
2026-02-20 11:00 - 15:00
Bring the whole family out for a day of food, fun, and friendly competition at our community Cook-Off! Enjoy live music, games, and kids’ entertainment throughout the event. Young anglers can learn hands-on fishing techniques from local experts, while vendors showcase the latest fishing apparel and gear.

Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into great food, great music, and great community spirit.

Date: February 20th
Time: 11:00 – 3:00 PM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home

Garden Walk & Talk
2026-02-25 10:30 - 11:30
Experience the beauty of Bellingrath Gardens in every season during our Garden Walk & Talk, held on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This engaging monthly garden tour is led by our knowledgeable horticulture experts, who share insights into what’s blooming, garden care tips, and behind-the-scenes details about our historic landscape.
Garden Walk & Talk is open to the public – the tour is included with regular Gardens admission, and it’s free for Bellingrath members. No advance registration required.
Join us each month to connect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the Gardens!

Date: February 25th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Purchase Tickets

Members' Morning Coffee
2026-02-28 10:00 - 11:00
Join us for a peaceful start to the day at our Members’ Morning Coffee. This special gathering is a chance for members to enjoy complimentary coffee, light refreshments, and friendly conversation while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gardens. Take time to unwind, connect with fellow members, and experience the charm of Bellingrath in the morning hours.
This is an exclusive members-only event. Not yet a member? Discover the perks here.
Plan Your Visit

Date: February 28th
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Purchase Tickets

Camellia Planting Day
2026-02-28 10:00 - 14:00
Work alongside Bellingrath’s horticulture team to help plant over 100 Camellias as part of the ongoing restoration of the Camellia Arboretum. This historic planting, the first in more than 50 years, represents a meaningful step in preserving the Arboretum’s beauty and legacy.
Participants will take part in a hands-on experience that is about more than planting — it is about creating memories, giving back, and leaving a lasting mark on a place that holds deep meaning for our community. Whether you are a longtime camellia enthusiast or simply love being in the Gardens, your time and care will become part of Bellingrath’s living history.
Advance RSVP is required as space is limited. Some shovels and gloves will be available, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to help restore the Camellia Arboretum and leave your mark on its history.

Date: Saturday February, 28th
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Space is limited, please RSVP
In the event of inclement weather, the make-up date will be Saturday, March 7.

Plant Exploration with a Purpose
2026-03-04 10:30 - 11:30
Travel the world through plants with Scott McMahan of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. As Vice President of Horticulture and Collections, Scott brings firsthand insight from decades of global plant discovery, sharing stories from expeditions across Asia, the Americas, and beyond.
In this engaging lecture, Scott explores how plants are discovered, collected, and shared among botanical institutions worldwide, and how international collaboration helps shape the gardens we enjoy today. Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the role plant exploration plays in conservation, horticulture, and the ever-evolving beauty of public gardens.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore global plant discovery and gain firsthand insight into the work shaping botanical gardens around the world.

Date: March 4th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

Spring Gift Shop Open House & Fashion Show
2026-03-05 17:30 - 19:30
Step into the spirit of spring at Bellingrath’s Gift Shop Spring Open House & Fashion Show! Enjoy an evening filled with fresh décor, seasonal shopping, and exclusive spring collections. Members receive a 20% discount on all purchases during the event, and guests can sip wine and enjoy light refreshments while browsing beautiful spring décor, gifts, and garden-inspired treasures. Be the first to see our fashion show featuring new spring styles, and enter for a chance to win exciting door prizes throughout the evening. Celebrate the season in bloom at a truly charmed spot of the South—you won’t want to miss it!
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to treat yourself and get the best new finds for the season!

Date: Thursday, March 5th
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Gift Shop & Café

Mobile Area Orchid Society's Annual Orchid Show and Sale
2026-03-06 - 2026-03-08
Mobile Area Orchid Society’s Annual Orchid Show and Sale
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is proud to host the Mobile Area Orchid Society’s 47th Annual Orchid Show and Sale. Society members will showcase their finest orchids and be on hand to answer questions and offer expert advice on orchid care and cultivation. Vendors will have a variety of orchids, supplies, and accessories available for purchase. Guests can also browse new spring merchandise in the Bellingrath Gift Shop. Admission to the Orchid Show is free, though visitors are encouraged to explore the Gardens and Home during their visit. The Magnolia Café will serve lunch from 11 AM to 2 PM, providing a convenient dining option before or after enjoying the stunning orchid displays.
Plan Your Visit

Date: March 6 – 8th
Time: Friday, 10:00 – 5:00 PM | Saturday, 10:00 – 5:00 PM | Sunday, 10:00 – 3:00 PM
Location: Magnolia Cafe

Through the Garden Gate: A Collection of Garden Stories
2026-03-11 10:30 - 11:30
Join Carleton Wood, Executive Director of Hills & Dales Estate, for an engaging presentation reflecting on more than 30 years in public gardens. Carleton will share why he chose horticulture as his life’s work, offering stories and insights from his time at Tryon Palace in New Bern, The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo, and Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange. Along the way, he’ll highlight memorable people, remarkable plants, and the lessons learned throughout a rich and varied career.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand wisdom from a lifetime dedicated to gardens.

Date: March 11th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Location: Magnolia Room, Bellingrath Gardens & Home
Purchase Tickets

The Garden & Vine Supper Club | Canceled
2026-03-12 18:00 - 20:00
Hosted in the Magnolia Café, this intimate, chef-crafted dinner by Chef Jim Smith of Hummingbird Way highlights seasonal flavors in a warm and welcoming Bellingrath setting. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu in a relaxed atmosphere, where exceptional cuisine and Southern hospitality set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a truly unforgettable dining event.

Date: March 12th
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Purchase Tickets

The Nuts and Bolts of Greaux-ing Better Azaleas
2026-03-18 10:30 - 11:30
Dive into the essentials of cultivating stronger, more vibrant azaleas with The Nuts and Bolts of Greaux-ing Better Azaleas. Dr. Allen Owings will share proven tips, practical techniques, and expert insights to help your azaleas thrive season after season.
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the South’s leading horticultural voices.

Date: March 18th
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Purchase Tickets

Spring Plant Market
2026-03-20 08:00 - 2026-03-22 16:00
Browse a vibrant selection of plants and garden-themed merchandise, all conveniently located in the parking lot in front of the Café and Gift Shop. Members of our horticulture team will be on hand to answer your gardening questions and help you choose the perfect additions to your landscape. See Our Plant List
Plan Your Visit
Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on beautiful plants and gardening essentials for the season.

Date: March 20 – 22
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home
