At Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, preparations are underway for the eighth annual Gardens Aglow. This year, the seasonal celebration returns to its roots as a walking tour with a new, reimagined design. With more than 650,000 LED lights woven through 14 acres of central gardens, the Gardens is amplifying the brightest light display in Maine. Guests will experience illuminated trails, nature-inspired sculptures, themed areas, and all new energizing designs inspired by the color theory Horticulturist and Gardens Aglow Program Manager Brent McHale uses in his horticultural work. In addition to dramatic lighting, guests can enjoy grab-and-go snacks, hot chocolate, and seasonal wares in Gardenshop.

Tickets are on sale now at GardensAglow.org and must be purchased in advance as space is limited. No tickets will be sold onsite during the event. Gardens Aglow runs Thursdays-Sundays, Nov. 19-Dec. 31, 4-9 p.m. The event is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Tickets are timed for four separate arrivals each night at 4, 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets early. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, $10 for children 3-17 (children under 3 are free), and $45/family of four. For more information, visit GardensAglow.org.

There is nothing quite like winter in Maine, and Gardens Aglow, together with Boothbay Lights, has become a firm tradition in Maine’s seasonal calendar — the Boothbay peninsula is the place to be for wintertime cheer. Experience the Gardens’ explosion of festive color, then dine in one of the many restaurants characteristic to the region and enjoy a wide variety of seasonal activities, including special events and seasonal shopping experiences. For a complete calendar of regional offerings, visit www.boothbaylights.com.

At nearly 325 acres, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is the largest public garden in New England. The nationally recognized public garden features two miles of hiking trails, 19 acres of ornamental and themed gardens, a children’s garden, a sensory garden, and so much more. The mission of the Gardens is to inspire meaningful connections among people, plants, and nature through horticulture, education, and research. To learn more, visit MaineGardens.org. Please note, the Gardens requires tickets to be purchased in advance.