Skip to main content

Magical Exhibition to Illuminate Raulston Arboretum

Photo of garden lights at night
November brings the return of Moonlight in the Garden to NC State's JC Raulston Arboretum

For seven nights in November, the magical lighting exhibition Moonlight in the Garden will illuminate and showcase NC State’s JC Raulston Arboretum.

Sponsored by the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation and presented by Southern Lights of Raleigh and more than a dozen suppliers, the exhibition is a once-per-year occasion to see the botanical gardens and arboretum at night.

Exhibition dates include a special Preview Night on Tuesday, Nov. 6, from 7 to 9 p.m.; plus, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights Nov. 8-10 and Nov. 15-17 from 6 to 9 p.m.

“Moonlight in the Garden is an opportunity for us to light up the garden and share what a magical place the arboretum can be at night,” said Mark Weathington, JC Raulston Arboretum director. “Children love being in the garden. One of the most rewarding aspects of the exhibition is the attraction of children, students and people of all ages.”

“Along with the colorful and festive lighting exhibition, Moonlight in the Garden is a chance to bundle up, welcome the fall season to North Carolina, dine at the best food trucks, enjoy the live music, have some hot cider and roast marshmallows over the fire pits,” Weathington added.

John Garner, volunteer project chair and president of Southern Lights of Raleigh, noted that the event uses over five miles of cable powered by 20 transformers to showcase the arboretum with the latest and best lighting technologies.”

Tickets are limited – advance reservations are recommended online. Proceeds from Moonlight in the Garden will benefit the arboretum’s daily operations.

[button]Order tickets now![/button]