Light Up the Season With Garden d'Lights

Thirty years ago, the team at the Bellevue Botanical Garden set out to solve a challenge: how to attract visitors during the colder months. They knew that the garden’s many special qualities deserved to be enjoyed so they started displaying small light displays in 1994 that attracted around 1,000 visitors. Fast-forward three decades, and that modest event has blossomed into Garden d’Lights, a dazzling spectacle that draws nearly 70,000 people annually and has become one of the region's most cherished holiday traditions.

For first-time visitors, the experience is nothing short of magical. Picture a half-mile walking tour illuminated by half a million lights shaped into botanically accurate plants, flowers, and animals celebrating the wonders of the natural world.

“It’s important to us that every plant on display is botanically correct,” explains Darcy McInnis, communications manager at the Bellevue Botanical Garden. “This ties directly into our mission to educate the public about horticulture while creating an unforgettable experience.”

Over 500,000 lights are designed, built, and installed entirely by volunteers. A core group of 30 passionate individuals works nearly year-round to bring the event to life. Planning for the next season begins immediately after the show wraps, and by late October, volunteers begin the intensive two-week installation process. During the event, additional volunteers help welcome visitors and ensure the evening runs smoothly.

Garden d’Lights is more than a light show — it’s a community tradition designed to be enjoyed by families, coworkers, and friends alike. Special $5 admission nights keep the experience affordable and accessible, ensuring it remains a holiday staple for everyone.

“Many visitors tell me they’ve been coming for as long as they can remember,” McInnis says. “I’ve met parents who attended as children and are now bringing their own kids. Seeing their children’s eyes light up with wonder is so rewarding.”

This year, visitors can look forward to some exciting additions. Each year, the Garden introduces a brand-new critter for visitors to spot in the scavenger hunt, and this season’s debut is a charming caterpillar. They’ve also added several new plants to the display, so returning visitors should keep their eyes peeled. All ages are invited to participate in the popular scavenger hunt.

“We originally envisioned it for younger visitors, but we see all kinds of groups participating, including senior groups who have a blast solving it together. It’s a fun way to interact with the display while following the map of the route.” McInnis says. 

To make the night even more fun, guests can dance to live music performances by local artists. This season’s calendar includes two ukelele groups, a quintessential 1940s big band group, and various youth chamber orchestras.

Timed tickets are available online, and the event runs nightly from November 30 through December 31. So bundle up, grab your family and friends, and prepare to be captivated by this light-filled Bellevue tradition.