For anyone who's visited Manteo's Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina, the ten acres that make up the botanical garden make quite the impact. No matter the time of year you visit, you're greeted with stunning flora, sculpture displays, a wealth of history, and views of the beautiful Roanoke Sound. It's a true delight. And if you happen to visit during the holidays, then even better! Just be sure to include a night visit during the Winterlights if visiting during the Christmas season.

The grand entrance, with its facade of hand-thrown bricks, is stunning all year round ...

... and even more so during the Winterlights event, which officially opens for the 2023 season on Friday, November 17th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continues on select nights all the way through to December 30th.

This is one of the best holiday light displays in North Carolina and many consider this a seasonal tradition. So make sure you get your tickets online before they sell out (Link below).

Prepare to see the gardens in a whole new light during Winterlights.

The property radiates stunning beauty during the day but there is nothing quite like having a garden awash with thousands of twinkling lights. The whole place feels magical and is guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit.

The usual pathways will come to life with a twinkly glow and spark your holiday cheer like nothing else.

You might just get lost in the awe-inspiring beauty of it all. We love this time of the year when everything shines with Christmas lights. Not only will you get to witness a stunning light display, but they are also hosting various activities. On select days, you can expect to see Saint Nick himself making an appearance and there will be face painting for the kiddos. Plus, there will be carolers and live music throughout the event. These are on select dates so make sure you look ahead on their website to plan your next trip (Link below).

Expect some traditional holiday decor to grace the walkways, too. And over on the Great Lawn, a huge crackling fire will warm your soul as much as your hands.

You can also expect a seasonal gift shop and even some plant sales - both of which will be ideal for scoring some wonderful gifts to give loved ones for the holidays.

Get ready for one of your most magical nights of the year at Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. The Winterlights event officially opens on November 17, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continues on select nights through December 30, 2023.

So what do you think are you going to go to Elizabethan Gardens in North Carolina this year for Winterlights? Tickets are $18 for adults, $14 for kids ages 6-17, and $8 for kids ages 2-5, Infants under 2 can get in for free. You can even bring along your dog for this magical event for $6. Purchase your tickets online in advance by visiting the Elizabethan Gardens ticket page. Learn more about the event from the official Facebook page for Elizabethan Gardens, or visit the Elizabethan Gardens website.

To learn more about this event, check out this highlight video from a previous year at Winterlights.

If you are looking to stay in the area a little longer, then check out the Roanoke Island Inn for a beautiful bed and breakfast experience.