Gardens Aglow - Truly a Winter Wonderland!

We're so used to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens getting everything right that we have come to take their excellence for granted.  Well, after visiting fhe Gardens Aglow exhibition last week Chris and I can definitely say the staff of the Botanical Gardens have truly exceeded our expectations in creating what is a world-class display of brilliant holiday magic.  

Driving into the parking area, we were directed to an available space by a series of flashlight wielding attendants.  Frustration in trying to find an open space was completely avoided.  Even though we didn't need it, a large lot near the admission point was set aside for those with mobility issues. Alternatively, we could have taken the shuttle from the Boothbay Harbor town hall that left every thirty minutes.

After showing our tickets (buy in advance online for a bit of a savings), we entered the garden area for a jaw-dropping "Oh my Gosh" moment.  The trees, shrubs, and just about everything else were absolutely awash in multi-colored lights.  Although at first it seemed completerly overwhelming, our eyes soon began to detect patterns and themes among the display areas.  As we wound along the pathways. we encountered vendor booths selling hot chocolate, kettle corn, hot apple cider, etc., just what you want to warm yourself on a chilly winter night.  We felt like small children as we excitedly pointed out to each other particularly beautiful displays.  We discovered that, if we turned around to look back in the direction from which we had just come, it presented a completely different and equally gorgeous panorama.  It was absolutely enchanting!

The gift shop and cafe were open and a large warming room was provided if one needed a break from the sensory overload outside.  They have absolutely thought of everything.

If you have not had the opportunity to visit Gardens Aglow, there is still time.  They are open Thursdays through Sundays until the end of the month, except on Christmas Eve.  If you can't visit this year, put it on your must-do list for next year - you definitely won't regret it!