Back by popular demand, Shimmering Solstice at Old Westbury Gardens returned for its second year on Nov. 25.
The themed light show presents a series of displays along the paths of Old Westbury Gardens’ Walled Garden, Rose Garden, South Lawn and Allée. The event also offers an experience everyone can enjoy and explore at their own pace.
“This walkthrough light show is uniquely designed specifically for Old Westbury Gardens, a beautiful Long Island landmark,” Nancy Costopulos, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens said. “It offers a one-of-a-kind experience which is now becoming a new holiday tradition.”
New for this year includes a redesigned interactive area with three new exhibits; seasonal music throughout the expanded illuminated event path; a new illuminated water feature on the West Pond; an updated Westbury House finale show; and The Garden of Appreciation, which is now a warming area with a concession stand.
Maura Brush, director of horticulture at Old Westbury Gardens, had originally advocated for the show for a decade. She emphasized that while its debut last year went well, there was still room for improvement.
“We want to make sure that people who come back feel like ‘Wow, it’s even better the second year,'” Maura Brush, director of horticulture for Old Westbury Gardens said. “We were very conscious about not resting on our laurels.”
Lightswitch, a collective of renowned lighting, media and visual designers, created the show. Brush said their goal was to transform the area into a place that could be enjoyed during the fall and winter while remaining true to the garden’s mission.
“Everyone says everything’s new and improved,” she said. “But in our feedback, I’d say we’ve truly taken what I think was a great first year and fine-tuned it, expanded it and made it into something even better this year.”
Tickets are on sale now. They vary slightly in price depending on peak and off peak times. The show runs on select dates from Nov. 25 to Jan. 1, 2023. The admission time starts at 5:30 p.m.
One can visit shimmeringsolstice.com for more information.
