Magical winter break fun at Botanical Gardens

The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens has filled the month of December with magical holiday experiences designed to create unforgettable memories for all ages. 

A press release stated, “Whether it’s a family activity or a date night, the seasonal plants, lights and train displays will bring joy to all visitors. Take the kids during the day or at night while they're off from school and make the most of the holiday season with an entertaining tropical escape.”

The poinsettia and railway exhibit is a holiday favorite that has become an annual traditional for many in the Buffalo area. The exhibit is open daily until Jan. 2, 2022, and is included with regular admission to the Botanical Gardens. This year, the poinsettia collection features bright yellows, deep pinks, and even autumn leaf colors that complement the more traditional colors in deep reds and whites. The railway exhibit by the Western New York Garden Railway Society is filled with whimsical characters and trains that are on the move during the day and even have some special lighting features.

“Gardens After Dark: Magical Poinsettias” is on display from 5-9 p.m. Dec. 27-30. The Botanical Gardens will be filled with colorful and soft lighting to enhance and complement the poinsettia and railway exhibit. The plants will be dazzled in twinkling lights that will bring warm feelings of holiday joy. As visitors walk into the grand structure of the Main Palm Dome, ornaments will hang over head and among the trees, and sights of lights will beam onto the plant collection throughout the entire conservatory.

Tickets must be prepurchased online at buffalogardens.com. General admission tickets for the poinsettia and railway exhibit. “Gardens After Dark” tickets also are on sale.

Masks are required for all visitors, staff and volunteers inside any building on the Botanical Gardens campus, regardless of vaccination status. 

Proceeds benefit the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with a mission to inspire curiosity and connect people to the natural world through its historic living museum.