Explore The Dawes Arboretum’s Wooded Holiday Walk

The Dawes Arboretum once again transforms its trails into a wonderland of glowing lights during the holiday season. The annual Winter Wonders Walk has been a tradition since 2017 and once again lights up the Parkwoods Trail at the Newark arboretum Thursday, Dec. 4, for members and Dec. 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 for the general public. 

Unlike traditional holiday displays, the arboretum’s Winter Wonders Walk features hundreds of LED lights shining upward from the ground rather than wrapped around the trees, making for a nature-friendly display. 

“Winter Wonders Walk offers dazzling light displays nestled throughout the Arboretum that capture the beauty, serenity and magic of our living museum,” Stephanie Crockatt, executive director of The Dawes Arboretum, said in an Oct. 27, 2025, press release. “This family-friendly holiday event is a chance to create special memories and experience the brilliance of nature aglow.”

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the paved trail, which covers just under a mile. Afterward, they can soak in the festive atmosphere that includes live music, hand-carved ice sculptures, a food truck and warm drinks like hot chocolate and coffee. For those who cannot walk the trail, the the visitors center features a video screening of the lights to enjoy, and the arboretum’s gift shop will also be open for visitors looking for unique holiday gifts.

Several special events are planned to ensure each evening is a bit different, including local high school choirs performing in the arboretum’s Sunken Gardens, while Santa Claus also makes a special appearance each evening. On Saturday, Dec. 13, he’ll be joined by real reindeer to add an extra dose of holiday cheer.

For visitors who are sensitive to sensory stimuli, there is a sensory-friendly hour Thursday, Dec. 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., featuring a quiet experience as well as free fidget toys and sunglasses.

Tickets go on sale Saturday, Nov. 1, and must be purchased in advance online. Admission is $5 for members, $10 for nonmember adults, $5 for children ages to 5-15 and free for kids under 5.

For more information about the Winter Wonders Walk or Dawes Arboretum, visit dawesarb.org.

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