Winter Lights at the Arb!
(Chaska, MN): Winter Lights is set to open on November 21 at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum!
Location
3675 Arboretum Drive – Chaska, MN
Stroll through the Arboretum gardens decked out in Winter Lights. Enjoy fresh air as you explore outdoor light displays, highlighting flowers, trees, and the beauty of nature, on a 0.75-mile walking route. See the new 16-foot weeping willow tree and walk through the giant apple, which pays tribute to the Horticultural Research Center’s apple research. Stop by S’mores Village to warm up near a fire and buy s’mores kits to roast marshmallows.
The Arboretum’s Oswald Visitor Center and Snyder Building will also be decorated for the season — and the 25-foot cuetlaxóchitl tree is back this year. The tree was created using more than 500 red, white and pink poinsettias! And new for 2025 – an indoor forest of evergreen trees, each adorned with artful, nature-inspired decorations. This immersive display showcases the beauty, resilience and year-round value of trees — cornerstones of the Arboretum’s mission and Minnesota’s landscapes. You might also hear holiday tunes from local performers from the live Music Series, offered on select nights.
Special theme nights are available for families and photographers, as well as date nights for adults and a New Year’s Eve celebration for all ages.
General Admission — Nov 20, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026
Reservations: $10 members, $30 non-members, free for children 15 and younger but they still need a ticket even though they are free
Family Nights — December 11 & 18
Reservations: $10 for members, $25 for non-members and $5 for children 15 and younger; free for infants younger than 1 year
This family-friendly evening features smaller crowds, hot cocoa and cookies and a craft project. Get some fresh air before bedtime, and bring your children to explore the Arboretum at night as they walk through the magical Winter Lights displays under the beautiful night skies. Rootstock will also be open for dinner and warm beverages.
Adults’ Night Out — Dec 3 and 4
Reservations and Information: $10 for members; $25 for non-members
Enjoy a walk through the glowing outdoor displays, then head inside to enjoy an evening filled with music, tastings and games designed for adults. It is an ideal night out for date nights, gatherings with friends or anyone looking for a truly memorable experience under the lights.
New Year’s Eve Party — Dec. 31
Reservations and Information: $10 for Arboretum members, $25 for non-members and $5 for children ages 15 and younger
Stroll the indoor and outdoor light displays, then warm up inside with music, games and festive fun.
- Live music by Traveled Ground from 6-9 p.m.
- Family-friendly games and playful photo opportunities
- Rootstock – Dinner will be available for purchase from 5-8 p.m.; no reservation needed.
- Countdown celebrations on the hour at 6, 7, 8, 9 p.m. with a ball drop
- Party favors for all attendees
- Add your 2026 hopes to the New Year Wish Tree
- Keepsake craft project with Glacier Lane
- Come paint your own winter-themed ornament! Choose from a Tree with Lights, Snowflake, Snowman, or Reindeer. You’ll get to add the finishing touch—painting the accents with your choice of 7 different glow-in-the-dark colors! Cost is $10 each (tax included).
