Massachusetts Holiday Light Display Named Among Top in the Nation

Night Lights at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Drive in Boylston, Massachusetts, has been voted the No. 1 best botanical garden holiday light show in the nation in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

The exhibit runs daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 4, 2026. This year's theme is "Dazzling Gardens," reflecting a record number of lights used in the displays.

Here's what USA TODAY's editors had to say about the experience: 

"Kick off your holiday season with a walk among half a million dazzling lights, along with plenty of family-friendly festive activities, including s'mores roasting and themed costume nights, delicious goodies, and holiday shopping, plus 3D glasses to make everything look extra cheerful. At this New England Botanic Garden experience, visitors can discover enchanting light displays designed around themes that change annually and enjoy iconic favorites like a 100-foot Rainbow Tunnel and a tree constructed out of living bromeliads."

Ticket pricing for nonmembers is $25 per adult at standard rates and $27 at peak times. Children ages 4–12 are admitted at the standard rate of $15 and at $17 during peak visitation times. More details about ticket prices are available on the garden's website or by calling 508-869-6745.

The Worcester County Horticultural Society, established in 1842, operates the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. The Boylston site opened in 1986 and was previously voted the top botanical garden by TravelAwaits in 2023.

In addition to hosting Night Lights, the facility is also open for garden viewing, trail walking, educational programs, private events, weddings, and exhibitions.