HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Huntsville Botanical Garden is bringing back the "Galaxy of Lights" for the 29th year. The showcase is nearing three decades of tradition in the Rocket City.
"We're so excited for Galaxy of Lights to be opening again for this 29th year," said Huntsville Botanical Garden Director of Communications and Guest Experience Laura McPhail, "I think that the magical part of it is that it's homegrown. It's something that we started here a long time ago." Madison Resident Jennifer Bottomley said, "I think it's a great time for the community to come out and enjoy some holiday cheer and be with loved ones."
Botanical Garden officials say this year's light show features a few million sparkles. It's become a staple for people in the community to share with loved ones. "I especially love seeing my three year old. His eyes light up when he sees this, but I also get to bring my parents in, so it's a really great intergenerational thing for us to do together," said McPhail. "This is my third time recently. But I used to come here when I was a kid," said Bottomley.
Bottomley said this time around means more for her and her family. They're sponsoring the "Two Turtle Doves" portion of the show. "My mom passed out two and a half years ago and we have really good memories here, so we wanted to honor her memory and bring some joy to the community and put out some lights for her," said Bottomley, "It was just a core memory of just the happiness that this area brings for everyone."
The Botanical Garden is bringing in a few new features to this year's trail, but one has captured the attention of some staff. "I am in love with a mystical forest right now," said McPhail. Officials say it's the first time the Galaxy of Lights has gone away from the path and into the woods. McPhail said, "I walked in there the other night and it is an emotional thing when you see, like all the work that went into it since planning it from February on and seeing it come to life, it's really gorgeous."
They're already planning for their 30th anniversary. "I can guarantee you that there will be more and better features next year as well and we just want everybody to come out and see it this year, get revved up for next year," said McPhail.
The Galaxy of Lights is open Nov. 15 - Dec. 31. You can click here for more details on tickets and dates.